Yacht on fire off the island of Elba, passengers rescued before it sinks: they are Stefania Craxi and her husband

Great fear for the Forza Italia senator and her husband. The fire broke out on the yacht they were on and the vessel sank in a short time. Investigation launched to ascertain causes and possible responsibilities

FLORENCE – They had left from the island of Giglio, headed for Elba but during navigation something went wrong: a fire broke out on the yacht and the three passengers were were rescued in time, before it sank. They are Forza Italia senator Stefania Craxi, her husband, the television entrepreneur Marco Bassetti, and the captain driving the boat. The accident occurred on the day of yesterday, Thursday 13 June and the Coast Guard of Portoferraio intervened in the rescue operation, coordinated by that of Livorno, with naval and air means.

The call for help came after the passengers tried in vain to put out the fire, which broke out in the engine compartment. There was so much fear, but the three immediately got on the life raft and awaited help. As reported by the rescuers, the 22 meter long yacht sank in a few hours, while the passengers, despite the shock, did not suffer any injuries or burns.

The causes of the fire are still under investigation by the Portoferraio harbor office, although it is thought to be a malfunction or an accidental technical failure. The Harbor Office therefore announces that it will continue to monitor the environment of the area affected by the accident, as well as in the investigation launched to ascertain the causes and possible responsibilities of the accident.

Rescue today for #GuardiaCostiera by #Portoferraio, 3 passengers of a 22 m boat sailing from Giglio to Elba which sank due to a fire were saved. Naval and aircraft vehicles coordinated by the Livorno Coast Guard also ascertained the absence of pollution. pic.twitter.com/ss8eYEo4Pw

— Coast Guard (@guardiacostiera) June 13, 2024