According to Ugo Piras, the maritime directorate of Olbia, what remains of the 47-metre Heesen yacht Atina will be recovered by the end of September 2024. On August 11, Atina sank about 300 metres off the coast of Olbia, Sardinia, Italy, after a fire erupted in the stern. Dramatic footage captured by the Olbia Coast Guard shows the flames spreading until the superyacht is completely engulfed, followed by it listing and sinking.
The Olbia Fire Brigade collaborated with the Olbia Coast Guard to combat the fire from 8pm local time. All eight people on board were evacuated and confirmed safe by authorities. Prior to the recovery, an operation was conducted to remove the 33,000 litres of fuel and 18 batteries onboard, which was completed on August 30. Piras informed BOAT International that the defueling process resulted in a "small leak" from a pipe damaged in the fire, but it was quickly addressed on site. No other pollutants were reported, and anti-pollution pads were deployed, along with an area prohibition order.
Atina, delivered by the Dutch shipyard in 2008, won a Neptune at the World Superyacht Awards in 2009. The yacht has gone by several names, including Elandess, Raasta, and Naseem. Most recently sold in 2021 for €16,250,000, Atina underwent an extensive refit with Turkish shipyard FDC Yachts to enhance her charter capabilities. Notable changes included a redesigned sundeck with a larger pool, a Teppanyaki grill, and a bar that could accommodate up to 12 guests for events.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Maritime Authority of Olbia. BOAT International will provide updates as the story progresses.
