Fire Engulfs ‘Historic’ Ferry on River Exe

An vessel characterized as “historic” was destroyed after catching fire on the River Exe, according to Exmouth RNLI. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service reported receiving a call regarding the boat fire near the Starcross to Exmouth ferry pier at approximately 12:30 GMT on Wednesday. Exmouth RNLI stated via a Facebook post that no individuals were aboard the vessel, which was subsequently towed to a nearby harbour once the blaze had been put out. Starcross to Exmouth Ferry acknowledged the “devastating” fire concerning its ferry, named Princess Marina. The ferry company, in a Facebook update, conveyed: “We would just like to thank everyone involved who helped get the fire under control.” The fire service indicated that a local tugboat was initially deployed to combat the fire on the diesel-powered vessel, prior to the Exmouth lifeboat being utilized. Exmouth RNLI commented: “Although we are glad that no one injured, it was a very sad day on the river with such a historic vessel being destroyed and the subsequent impacts to this family business.”