Four rescued after luxury yacht bursts into flames off English coast

Four people have been rescued after a 60-foot luxury yacht caught fire off the English coast, with dramatic images showing the vessel completely engulfed in flames as thick black smoke billowed into the sky.

The incident happened around 20 miles south of St Mary's in the Isles of Scilly on Saturday evening after the yacht reportedly suffered an engine problem. The RNLI launched a lifeboat at full speed following a distress call from those on board.

When the lifeboat crew arrived, the yacht's captain initially believed the fire had been extinguished and requested a tow back to shore. However, after one of the remaining engines was restarted, black smoke rapidly filled the vessel and the four people on board were immediately ordered to abandon ship.

All four occupants were safely evacuated onto the RNLI lifeboat and taken back to St Mary's Harbour. Thankfully, no injuries or smoke inhalation were reported following the rescue.

The blaze continued to burn for several hours after the rescue, with flames tearing through the yacht as emergency services monitored the situation from a safe distance. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said shipping safety broadcasts were issued to warn other vessels in the area, while pollution response teams were also notified.

The cause of the fire is expected to be investigated, although early reports suggest it may have started following an engine failure. Authorities have not confirmed the extent of the damage, but the vessel appeared to be almost completely destroyed by the intense fire.

The successful rescue highlights the rapid response of the RNLI and HM Coastguard, whose crews were able to reach the yacht before the fire intensified. Their quick actions ensured everyone on board escaped safely despite the dramatic conditions at sea.