Over 100 people jump off burning boat during children's tour amid intense fire.

A terrifying incident unfolded in Turkey as a ship, named Imparator, caught fire in the Fethiye district of Mugla, southwestern Turkey. More than 100 passengers, including families with children, were on board the vessel at the time. The ship, which hosts daily tours exploring the beautiful coastal bays and coves, is a popular destination for British tourists.

It promises an unforgettable adventure for youngsters, complete with meals, children's games, and entertainment. However, what was meant to be a day of fun and relaxation quickly turned into a nightmare as flames engulfed the ship. Panicked passengers were forced to leap into the sea, while Coast Guard teams and nearby civilian boats and private vessels rushed to their aid.

An urgent distress call was made, prompting a swift response from multiple agencies, including the Turkish Coast Guard, Directorate General of Coastal Safety, and maritime police. Thankfully, all 115 passengers were successfully evacuated to shore, with 11 of them receiving medical treatment for smoke inhalation. Fortunately, no serious injuries or fatalities were reported.

Health teams were on hand to check over the passengers once they reached land. While the General Directorate of Maritime Affairs did not confirm the number of children on board, it has been reported that several minors underwent precautionary medical checks. The ship's operator also reassured the public that all customers and staff were safe in a statement on Facebook.

However, the vessel was severely damaged by the fire, with images released by Turkish media showing it completely gutted. As the ship began to sink, an investigation was launched to determine the cause of the fire, which is believed to have started in the kitchen of the Toys Boat around 11am local time in Katrancı Bay. This terrifying incident serves as a reminder of the bravery and quick response of the Coast Guard teams, civilian boats, and private vessels, who worked together to ensure the safety of all passengers.

Let us all be grateful that no lives were lost and keep those affected in our thoughts.