Hellenic Seaways Ferry Ablaze, One Dead

A dead body covered with severe burns has been found on the deck of a Hellenic Seaways ferry ablaze near Piraeus, Greece, the Hellenic Coast Guard informed. 

The fire broke out earlier today on board the catamaran Highspeed 5 as it was moored for repairs at Ikonion, Piraeus.

Shortly after as the fire spread a thick cloud of dark smoke started spiraling from the vessel, as shown in the image below:

Tugs of the Hellenic Coast Guard Alexander 3 and Armadores II Fifi have been dispatched to the scene to contain the fire.

According to the most recent update by the salvage company Vernicos Tugs and Salvage, the fire has been extinguished.

Cause of the fire is not known. The extent of the damage to the Greek-flagged high speed vessel, built in 20115, is yet to be assessed.

World Maritime News Staff; Images: Vernicos