Families flee burning Turkey tour boat as 11 taken to hospital

More than 100 holidaymakers were forced to abandon a tourist boat in Turkey after a fire broke out during a children’s excursion in Fethiye.

The vessel, Imparator, was carrying 115 passengers when flames reportedly broke out in the kitchen of the children-focused Toys Boat at around 11am in Katrancı Bay, according to reports. Passengers were forced into the sea as the fire spread, while Turkish Coast Guard teams, maritime police, coastal safety officials, and nearby boats responded to the emergency. All passengers were eventually brought ashore, with 11 reportedly taken to hospital for treatment following smoke inhalation. No serious injuries or deaths were reported.

The fire caused extensive damage to the vessel, which was later reported to have begun sinking. Turkish authorities have launched an investigation into the cause.

For travel and health insurance audiences, the incident highlights the importance of emergency medical cover and access to appropriate care when accidents involving families occur abroad.

The episode also reinforces the importance of travellers checking travel insurance policies for emergency medical cover, repatriation, activity exclusions, and cancellation or curtailment protection before taking part in organised excursions abroad.