Early on Monday December 16, two yachts went ablaze and submerged at Seaview Harbor Marina in New Jersey. Over 2,000 gallons of diesel fuel were leaking in water jeopardizing local ecology and wildlife.

Two 58 to 65 feet long cruisers, the Majestic and the William G, caught fire at about 1 a.m., spreading huge flames and smoke. U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Shannon Kearney told ABC News, firefighters started handling fire at about 1:50 a.m. and had to continue even after the yachts submerged. In the parking lot, numerous emergency vehicles stood ready as firefighters battled the flames.
Each of the yachts carried up to 1,000 gallons of fuel that continued to burn and leak in the water after they sank. In order to prevent fire from reigniting and help contain the leaking diesel, crews deployed the firefighting foam truck and a tanker from the Atlantic City Airport.

The cause of the fire is still to be investigated. Some sources assume, the vessels could have been kept powered, since that is what many owners keeping their boats in the water during cold months do.

USCG Chief Petty Officer Christopher Brady told the Atlantic City Press that USCG pollution investigators have been on the scene. The boat owners will now be liable to cover the costs of salvage operations.
Another breaking news came from Miami this week, where Marc Anthony’s 37-metre Benetti superyacht Andiamo caught fire and capsized in water.