EDEN, Md. — A boat fire at the Wicomico Yacht Club in Eden on Saturday morning caused an estimated $65,000 in damage, but the quick actions of nearby boaters and responding firefighters prevented the blaze from spreading to surrounding vessels and dock structures.
According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the fire was discovered around 7:27 a.m. on June 6 aboard a 34-foot 1989 Carver Yacht that was docked at the yacht club on Yacht Club Road. The vessel was unoccupied at the time of the incident.
Investigators say occupants aboard a nearby boat heard a smoke alarm sounding from the yacht and quickly discovered the fire. Their prompt notification allowed emergency responders to arrive before the flames could spread.
Fifteen firefighters from the Allen Volunteer Fire Company responded to the scene and brought the fire under control within approximately 20 minutes. Firefighters found the yacht engulfed while docked at the marina but successfully prevented the fire from extending to the covered dock building or nearby boats.
The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire originated in a void space aboard the vessel and was caused by an accidental electrical event involving shore line power.
Damage to the yacht is estimated at $50,000, with an additional $15,000 in losses to contents aboard the vessel, bringing the total estimated loss to $65,000.
Officials have ruled the fire accidental.
