A fire forced the evacuation of 220 passengers from a Nile cruise ship Iberotel Crown Empress near Esna, Egypt. Most of those on board were foreign tourists enjoying a 12-day voyage from Luxor.
The blaze broke out Tuesday evening, reportedly starting in the galley due to an electrical short circuit. Thick smoke rose from the lower deck, alerting nearby vessels that signaled the crew.
The captain quickly steered the Iberotel Crown Empress toward the riverbank and began emergency evacuation. Several passing boats assisted, helping people disembark as the fire spread through the vessel.
All passengers made it safely to shore, though three crew members sustained minor injuries and were hospitalized.
Built in 2004, the Iberotel Crown Empress was a luxury cruise vessel with 128 cabins, a pool, spa, and sun deck. Authorities in Luxor have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire.
