Fires are unfortunately a serious issue in yachting. This year alone we’ve lost around 15 motor yachts in the 24-metre and above category, including the brand-new 43.7-metre ISA superyacht Aria SF, which caught fire and then sank within the first month of her delivery. 

As with any incident, there isn’t a single cause and therefore a single solution to eradicate the risk. But there are a number of precautionary measures that owners can take, to lower the risk of fire. SuperYacht Times caught up with Pantaenius Yacht Insurance to learn more about these preventive measures, and to learn the best ways to mitigate the risk of fire.  Photo: Salvamento MarítimoWhat is the most common cause of fire onboard a yacht?

There is a long list of possible factors but we are regularly witnessing defects of the electrical installations onboard that cause a fire. The reason is often that electrical equipment is installed without sufficient space and the ventilation is not adequate or properly designed, especially in the engine room where this is an obvious problem.

Neglected maintenance of all electric installations is a possible problem as well. Owners who want to cut down on costs should never consider saving money at the expense of their own safety. Depending on the size of the yacht, the pantry, galley or…