New 45-meter M/Y Aria SF Sinks after Fire in Spain

ISA Yachts M/Y Aria SF caught fire while anchored off the coast of Formentera, Spain, on August 11. She hit the water for the first time in April 2022. Unfortunately, what remained of the yacht sank between 7 and 7:30 p.m. on August 14 near Cap Martinet at a depth of about 12 meters, according to Periódico de Ibiza.

In the 72 hours following the event, the yacht was still emitting smoke and exhibiting hot spots. The vessel was moved closer to the coast to ease refloating in case the yacht sank, arriving near Cap Martinet in the afternoon of August 12. The maritime salvation vessel departed the area on August 13 and left salvage efforts to the owner and the company hired. Reportedly the owner had previously agreed to transfer her to port and work had already begun to prepare to refloat the vessel, Diario de Ibiza reports.

There were no reported injuries among the seven crewmembers and nine guests on board the 45-meter yacht. They were evacuated aboard a vessel from the Maritime Service of the Civil Guard, Salvamento Marítimo confirmed on Twitter.

Local media Periódico de Ibiza reports that the crew sounded the alarm at about 5:00 p.m. and evacuated the guests. Initially, the crew stayed on board to try to put out the flames, but the fire became uncontrollable. Salvamento Marítimo’s vessels Salvamar Acrux and Guardamar Concepción Arenal were sent to assist.

The 112 Emergency Service of the Balearic Islands activated its Special Contingency Plan for accidental contamination of water around 9 p.m., in preparation for possible leaks. As of approximately 1:30 p.m. on August 12, Salvamento Marítimo was reportedly still continuing extinction and follow-up tasks.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

M/Y Aria SF was set to make her official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival and then appear at the Monaco Yacht Show.