A routine ferry ride took an unexpected turn Monday afternoon when an MBTA ferry carrying passengers from Hingham to Boston was forced to make an emergency stop at Castle Island after a fire broke out on board.
According to WCVB, smoke was discovered in a machinery space aboard the ferry Champion during its 2 p.m. trip. The vessel was brought to Castle Island, where approximately 25 passengers wearing life jackets were safely evacuated. Boston Fire Marine Unit crews responded and quickly extinguished the fire.
Passengers reported hearing a loud boom before smelling smoke. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and everyone was safely transported from Castle Island by MBTA buses to continue their trip.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Champion was later towed away from Castle Island, and ferry service continued using other vessels.
