Massive Fire Breaks Out On Cargo Ship In North Kent

A large fire broke out early Sunday on a cargo ship moored along the River Thames in Gravesend, Kent.

The vessel, identified as SIDER OLYMPIA, is a bulk carrier flying the Marshall Islands flag and spans nearly 180 metres in length.

The fire was first spotted shortly after midnight, with emergency services receiving the first alerts around 3:00 AM British Summer Time.

By the time crews arrived, flames had already taken hold of the ship. Witnesses described seeing a vivid orange glow from one of the ship’s cargo bunkers.

Ten fire engines from Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS), along with specialist units including a height vehicle, technical rescue team, water safety unit, and a bulk water carrier, were dispatched to the scene at Crete Hall Road.

A high-volume pump and aerial ladder platform were also brought in, while a volunteer response team supported emergency personnel with welfare aid.

Drone units and marine firefighters were mobilised to assist in the effort.

London Fire Brigade (LFB) joined the response, deploying the fire boat Errington from Lambeth River Station to help tackle the fire from the river.

LFB also provided backup fire cover in London’s bordering areas while their teams assisted in Kent.

Video Credits: UK News in Pictures/YouTube

According to a senior officer from the London Fire Brigade, their involvement began after receiving a request for assistance at around 03:12 AM.

Crews from both services worked closely, following what KFRS described as a “complex tactical plan” to contain the flames. Firefighters with breathing gear boarded the ship, using hoses to cool the upper decks and control the intense heat inside.

Authorities confirmed that there were no injuries and that all crew members are safe. However, it remains unclear what type of cargo was onboard or whether any dangerous substances were involved.

The size of the vessel and the nature of the fire have made firefighting efforts challenging, and operations are expected to continue for several more hours.

Kent Police were also on site, helping with crowd control and securing the area.

The Port of London Authority is monitoring the situation closely. The public have been asked to avoid the area to give emergency services space to work safely.

A representative from Kent Fire and Rescue Service described the incident as highly complex and confirmed that the teams are collaborating with partner agencies, including the Coastguard and the London Fire Brigade, to fully bring the fire under control.

A joint investigation between fire and maritime officials is expected to begin once the situation is fully stabilised.

Authorities are asking anyone who may have recorded footage or has information related to the fire to contact the relevant services, as this may assist in the ongoing investigation.

References: BBC, uknip

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