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 the island of Formentera, a popular day-trip island from Ibiza. Four passengers, two crew members and the captain were on board the yacht, the Da Vinci, when the fire broke out. All of them were rescued and it is understood that there were no injuries, however, the vessel could not be saved. The maritime rescue services said that the fireball was "uncontrollable" and that it remained extinguished until it eventually sank.

A post on X said: "CCS Palma deploys Guardamar Concepción Arenal and Salvamar Naos, which also transports firefighters.

"The seven people have been evacuated by the Naos to land in good condition.

"The fire could not be controlled, and the yacht has finally sunk. The Guardamar remains in the area cleaning up debris."

According to Boat International, the Da Vinci was a 29-metre (95-foot) motor yacht, belonging to Spanish yard Astondoa's 95 GLX series. 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.

According to Periódico de Ibiza y Formentera, the fire started in the engine room. Ultima Hora said that initially, the fire appeared to be under control, but when the rescue boats began to pull the superyacht, the fire intensified and eventually sank.