Fire Rips Through Historic MV Royal Iris Ferry on Thames
A massive blaze tore through the MV Royal Iris, the iconic Thames ferry that once hosted The Beatles and inspired Merseybeat hits. The fire erupted at around 4.15pm on Tuesday, April 8, near Woolwich’s Harrington Way, with thick smoke billowing as flames engulfed half the ship.
Blaze Brings Firefighters to the Limit
Six fire engines plus a fire boat raced to the scene. Crews from East Greenwich, Forest Hill, Poplar, New Cross, and Deptford battled the inferno for nearly three hours, finally getting it under control by 7pm.
Firefighters faced huge challenges due to the vessel’s remote mooring. They set up a complex water relay system to hook hoses up to the nearest hydrant. A 32-metre turntable ladder was also deployed as a lookout point to monitor the raging fire’s spread.
Legendary Ferry with a Rock ’n’ Roll Past
The MV Royal Iris isn’t just any old boat. Built in 1951, it’s one of the most famous ferries to ever cross the Mersey. The vessel carried thousands of commuters but earned its place in music history by hosting live gigs from legends like The Beatles, The Searchers, Elvis Costello, and Gerry & The Pacemakers.
Gerry & The Pacemakers immortalised the ferry with their classic hit and film, Ferry Cross the Mersey. Later on, the ship was converted into a floating nightclub on the Thames but fell into disrepair and partially sank, lying abandoned and rusting for years.
Investigation Launched as Firefighters Tackle Aftermath
The London Fire Brigade has launched a formal investigation into the cause of the blaze, which remains unknown. Fire crews will stay on site to fully extinguish smouldering hotspots.
“Firefighters worked hard to contain the fire in challenging conditions. Due to the isolated location of the vessel, a water relay system was essential in our response,” a spokesperson said. “Crews will remain on the scene as we continue to damp down the area and investigate the cause.”
Fans Mourn the Loss of a Cultural Icon
Social media is awash with tributes and sadness over the damage to the Royal Iris. Nostalgic fans of Merseybeat and maritime heritage mourn the long decline of the vessel.
One user wrote: “The Royal Iris deserved better. It carried history — and legends.”
As the investigation continues, questions loom over the ferry’s future and whether any effort will be made to save this key piece of British cultural history.
