Ibiza horror as superyacht sinks near Balearics hotspot after massive blaze devours vessel

A superyacht has sunk to the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, near the popular Balearic island of Ibiza, after being devoured by flames. Footage shared by Spanish rescuers shows flames engulfing the large vessel, with huge plumes of smoke billowing into the sky.

The incident occurred on Monday (August 11), 7.3 miles southwest of Formentera, a popular day-trip destination for people holidaying in Ibiza. Four passengers, two crew members and the captain were on board the yacht, the Da Vinci, when the fire broke out. All the people aboard were rescued and taken to Ibiza, and it is understood that there were no injuries. However, the vessel could not be saved.

Speaking about the incident, the maritime rescue services said that the blaze was "uncontrollable", and the vessel eventually sank.

Spain's Salvamento Marítimo rescue service said on Tuesday: "Fire on board the vessel Da Vinci 7.3 miles southwest of Punta Gavina (Formentera). CCS Palma deployed Guardamar Concepción Arenal and Salvamar Naos, which also transported firefighters.

"The seven crew members were evacuated by the Naos to shore in good condition. The fire could not be brought under control, and the yacht eventually sank.

"The Guardamar remains in the area, clearing debris."

The fire broke out in the engine room, according to local reports, with members of the crew trying to fend off the blaze themselves. While the fire appeared to be under control at first, its intensity grew upon the arrival of rescue vessels, according to local news outlet Ultima Hora.

The Da Vinci was a 29-metre (95-foot) motor yacht, part of the Spanish yard Astondoa's 95 GLX series, Boat International reports.

Its design highlights included accommodation for 10 guests - not including the full-beam owner's suite - as well as a flybridge with a wet bar, barbecue and dining table.