Breaking: Dense Smoke from Cargo Ship Fire Blankets Hull’s Albert Dock
On June 27 at around 10:20 a.m. local time, a fire erupted within the cargo hold of the Marshall Islands–flagged bulk carrier Altay, which was moored at Albert Dock in Hull. The source of the blaze is believed to have been the ship’s hold, likely containing scrap metal, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
Humberside Fire and Rescue swiftly dispatched four fire engines, alongside support from the coastguard and ambulance services. Firefighters adopted both interior attack tactics and external water delivery to cool the hull, successfully preventing the fire’s expansion. Emergency responders confirmed that all crew members were rescued unharmed, with no injuries reported.
The fire produced towering plumes of thick smoke that drifted across the city, prompting authorities to issue public health advice. Residents were urged to “keep windows and doors closed”, and local roadways—namely Commercial Road and Kingston Street—alongside nearby shops at the Kingston Retail Park, were temporarily closed as a precaution. The Associated British Ports, which operates Hull’s dock facilities, stated the incident occurred in a tenanted section of the dock and pledged full cooperation with ongoing firefighting efforts.
While the fire has been successfully contained, investigations are now underway to determine its origin. Authorities, including port officials and maritime safety bodies, are examining possible causes, ranging from equipment failure to misdeclared or combustible cargo.
This incident underscores key lessons for maritime and port fire safety. Fires in cargo holds are particularly challenging to detect early and suppress effectively. The swift, coordinated fire crew response at Hull demonstrates the importance of robust emergency preparedness. Industry best practices highlight the necessity of reliable fire‑detection systems in cargo holds, thorough crew training, and shore‑ship emergency coordination to mitigate risk and contain incidents when they occur.
In the wake of the blaze, operators at Hull’s port face the dual task of investigating the incident’s root cause and reviewing fire safety protocols. Inspectors will determine whether existing detection systems, firefighting equipment, and emergency procedures were sufficient. A broader review of port infrastructure readiness may also be initiated to ensure rapid access, clear communications, and effective response coordination with firefighting teams.
Residents, businesses, and commuters in the Albert Dock vicinity can expect further updates on clearing operations, air‑quality assessments, and road reopening schedules later today.
Summary: A fire aboard the Altay at Hull’s Albert Dock on June 27 resulted in visible smoke across the city. Thanks to a coordinated and swift emergency response, the incident was contained, and all crew members were safe. Authorities continue to probe the cause while reviewing safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.
