Vessel Review: Golden-Bridge Under Fire and Investigation

The 'Golden-Bridge', a ferry operated by GNV, faced a tumultuous incident on March 6, 2026, during its routine crossing from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca. Initially reported at 5 a.m., a fire erupted in the cabin of a commercial vehicle aboard the vessel. This situation escalated, leading to subsequent reports of the fire occurring again at approximately 6:30 a.m. Fortunately, thanks to the swift action and adherence to safety protocols by the crew, the fire was quickly contained, resulting in no casualties among the 126 passengers and 46 crew members.

As the fire triggered an extensive emergency response, it was not without repercussions; 12 passengers required medical attention due to smoke inhalation, with 10 suffering minor injuries and a further two, including a three-year-old girl who was in serious condition, transported to a local hospital. In a bid to ensure passenger safety, the stern area was evacuated, and ongoing communication kept passengers informed throughout the incident.

Upon arriving in Palma around 9:45 a.m., the 'Golden-Bridge' was greeted by emergency services, including firefighters, the Civil Guard, and medical teams. The health and safety of passengers remained a top priority as extensive checks were conducted to ensure the situation was under control. GNV has since filed a formal complaint to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the fire, committing to cooperate fully with the investigating authorities.

With subsequent departures on the horizon, the incident highlighted both the efficiencies of maritime emergency response and the necessary precautions that must be taken onboard. Following a brief stay in Palma, the 'Golden-Bridge' is set to continue its operations towards Piraeus, embarking on a journey that now carries not just cargo and passengers, but symbols of resilience from its recent trials.