Fortunately, there were no serious injuries, with emergency services on hand to help the passengers, together with a passing tourist boat. Though three people were taken to hospital, an ambulance spokesperson confirmed it was just a precaution after smoke inhalation.
London Fire Brigade station manager Simon Tuhill described the scene:
“There were 30 people on the boat and most of them ended up in the water. They were suffering from being too cold and wet. Fortunately it was low tide so they weren’t in very deep water.”
As you’d expect for a tour boat, the passengers on board were from around the world, including visitors from Brazil, Russia, Australia and Sweden. Donna Wood was one of the passengers who described her ordeal:
“I was scared the boat might blow. It was scary. There was a lot of smoke inhalation, so we jumped in the water. We’re Australian, so we know how to swim. But I’ve lost my bag with my passport, everything I need to get back to Australia.”
The video below was taken by a passer-by who saw the boat on fire and the passengers jumping out.
The cause of the fire is to be investigated in the coming weeks, though the company have temporarily suspended all their river tours whilst they get to the bottom of the problem. On a statement on their website, the London Duck Tours managing director John Bigos explained:
“The company acknowledges the distressing situation experienced by our passengers. Until the cause is established, the company will not be operating on the river and should technical or safety modifications be required to our fleet, these will be introduced prior to the service recommencing.”
Were you on the boat or did you see the incident? Get in contact with us as info@ldncard.com
