A fire erupted on the cargo ferry MV Caesarea Trader while en route to Portsmouth, forcing the crew to abandon ship off the Isle of Wight coast.
Blaze Starts in Engine Room – Crew Safe
The DFDS-operated ferry, formerly known as Commodore Goodwill, was anchored near Shanklin after the fire broke out in its engine room around 3:45 pm on February 9. The crew of 24 were ordered to “abandon ship,” but all were accounted for and safe by 10 pm last night, according to HM Coastguard.
Three tug boats – VB Englishman, VB Scotsman, and SD Bountiful – were dispatched to fight the blaze. A coastguard search and rescue helicopter conducted thermal scans, while Bembridge RNLI lifeboat and Portsmouth tugs stayed on standby before the lifeboat crew was stood down at 8:20pm as a precaution.
Ferry to Be Towed to Portsmouth for Further Checks
The ferry remains anchored off the coast pending further inspections, with plans underway to tow it to Portsmouth Harbour. HM Coastguard confirmed the situation aboard the vessel was stabilised overnight and all onboard are well.
DFDS said it is taking “necessary steps to maintain continuity of freight links to Jersey” following the incident. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and KHM Portsmouth are involved in the ongoing response.
Trusted DFDS Ferry with Long Service to the Channel Islands
The MV Caesarea Trader first launched in 1996 as Commodore Goodwill for Condor Ferries. It was reflagged under the UK flag last year and is known as a “loyal servant” transporting freight and occasionally passengers between the Channel Islands and Portsmouth.
The unfortunate fire marks a dramatic twist for the stalwart vessel renowned along the route.
