Blazing Boat Rescue Off Isle of Wight
A dramatic sea rescue unfolded today off the Isle of Wight as the motorboat Peroni erupted in flames near Ventnor. Thick black smoke billowed across the sea, visible for miles, as two people were trapped onboard the burning vessel.
Rapid Response from Bembridge RNLI and Coastguard
At around 10:20am, a mayday call sparked a swift rescue operation. Lifeboats from Bembridge RNLI and a coastguard helicopter rushed to the scene. The two stranded passengers were quickly pulled to safety and brought ashore.
A spokesperson from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed, “Two people have been rescued after the vessel caught on fire. HM Coastguard coordinated the response after receiving a Mayday from the boat just off Ventnor. The helicopter from Lee on Solent was deployed but stood down once all aboard were confirmed safe. The vessel has now sunk.”
Onlookers Describe Harrowing Blaze
Residents in Upper Bonchurch witnessed the terrifying event. One onlooker told the Isle of Wight County Press they saw a “big ball of flames” before the boat disappeared beneath the waves. Numerous emergency calls were made by people alarmed by the intense fire.
The Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat crew remained nearby, monitoring the blaze and floating debris. They posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Called out this morning to the motor vessel Peroni, which caught fire in Sandown Bay. Casualties are safe and picked up by @BembridgeRNLI; we are standing by to monitor the fire and debris.”
Boat Sinks After Drifting Several Miles
After drifting miles away, the burning motorboat eventually sank, ending the fiery ordeal. This dramatic rescue underscores the ever-present dangers at sea and the vital work of lifesaving crews keeping mariners safe.
