Paxos: Captain arrested after fire engulfs tourist boats – 100 sq. m. of marine pollution reported
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The captain of a tourist vessel has been arrested following a major fire that broke out aboard two tourist boats in the waters off Paxos, resulting in both vessels sinking.
- 12 Ιουνίου 2026 11:24
The 30-year-old master of a passenger tourist boat was taken into custody by port authorities after the blaze led to the sinking of two vessels and caused marine pollution in the area.
The incident occurred around midday on Thursday in the sea area near the former Paxos seaplane base.
According to the Hellenic Coast Guard, the first passenger tourist vessel arrived at the location already engulfed in flames. All 18 passengers, who were U.S. nationals, along with the vessel’s four crew members, were evacuated safely and without injury.
The fire then spread to a second nearby tourist vessel carrying only its four crew members — one Greek national and three Egyptian nationals — who were also safely evacuated.
A large-scale emergency response was launched, involving two Coast Guard patrol boats, two Fire Service vessels, private boats, and the tugboat Ioannis. Onshore support was provided by firefighting vehicles, Coast Guard personnel, Hellenic Police officers, the Municipality of Paxos, volunteer firefighters, and local residents.
Despite extensive firefighting efforts, both vessels eventually sank, while several nearby boats also sustained damage.
The incident additionally caused marine pollution covering an area of approximately 100 square meters. Anti-pollution measures were deployed immediately, including the placement of floating containment barriers and absorbent materials to limit environmental damage.
