Rottnest Island boat fire: Emergency services respond after 50ft mega yacht catches fire off Rotto

19 April 2025

A luxury yacht went up in flames on Saturday off the coast of Rottnest Island.

Fremantle Sea Rescue, Water Police and Rottnest Island rangers rushed to the scene — about 10km north-west the island — after reports a 50ft mega-yacht caught fire about 3.30pm.

The yacht had activated its EPIRB and life raft.

A Department of Fire and Emergency Services spokesperson confirmed everyone was off the boat and had been accounted for.

There were no reports of any injuries.

Firefighters were waiting at one of the island’s piers but their services were not required.

Surf Life Saving WA said the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter had been deployed to assist police with the operation.

“Lifesaver 68 arrived to find a 15m yacht fully engulfed in flames,” a SLSWA spokesperson said.

“The crew coordinated with WA Police and conducted an aerial search to confirm all occupants were safely recovered.”

The passengers were transported to Rockingham.

The cause of the blaze is unknown.