The blaze onboard the 56.39-metre superyacht Lady D that had caught fire in the early hours of August 7, 2019 in Phuket Grand Marina, Thailand, has been completely out, reports The Phuket News. The vessel has totally burnt down, with the inspections and investigation by Thalang Police to begin.
Photo: Korlit Kahapana via The Phuket News
The fire started at about 8am yesterday, shortly blazing beyond firefighters ability to control. With at least 3,000 litres of fuel on board, the burning yacht was moved around 500 metres farther from the marina to prevent fire from spreading over other vessels.
Although still carrying a large volume of fuel, Lady D now remains in a safe location off Phuket’s east coast. No injuries or deaths were reported, with all crew members had left the ship safely.
Photo: Korlit Kahapana via The Phuket News
According to the earlier report of Punya Sompoarat, municipal mayor of Paklok, the fire started at the stern of Lady D, quickly spreading over the upper floors despite the crew’s attempts to stop it using fire extinguishers. The reasons of the accident still remain unknown.
Yesterday, Lt Col Wutthichai Kaewthong of the Thalang Police told The Phuket News that 'Forensic Science will board the boat to begin their investigation on the causes of fire.’
At this stage we have no idea of the extent or the cost of damage to the boat, or what started the fire, as we have not yet been able to board the boat until this morning.
Photo: Guy Lidureau via The Thaiger
Unfortunately, it seems that the damage done by the fire is beyond repair, and the owner and the insurance might decide to send it to scrap.
Meanwhile, Phuket Marine Office Chief Wiwat Chitchertwong told the media, the value of the damage done would amount to nearly B240 million, or $7.8 billion, according to what they had heard from the marina.
Photo: Korlit Kahapana via The Phuket News
Lady D was originally constructed in 1976 as a US Coast Guard Inspected, ABS Classified, and Load Lined Offshore Oilfield Supply Vessel. In 1989, she was reconfigured and converted to an ocean-going yacht.
The superyacht underwent recent upgrades to her mechanical systems and hull in 2005-2006. She could accommodate up to 24 guests on-board.
Photo: Korlit Kahapana via The Phuket News
Powered by Wartsila engines, she was capable of a maximum speed at 13 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots, with a maximum range of 12,000 nautical miles.
In the meantime, the Phuket officials have stated that ‘the province’s poor ability to respond to the Lady D superyacht fire has highlighted the need to support a B50-million water safety plan – which includes fire boats,’ reports The Phuket News.
Photo: Korlit Kahapana via The Phuket News
The project plan that amounts to $1.6 billion has been called for governmental approval.