Indonesian Crew Member Killed in Cruise Ship Fire off Singapore
An Indonesian crew member died after a fire broke out on the cruise ship World Legacy whilst the vessel was sailing towards Singapore on Friday, 20 February 2026. The information was confirmed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), as reported by CNA.
According to a preliminary investigation, the fire started at approximately 04:00 local time in the lounge area on deck nine of the Liberian-registered vessel. The blaze was extinguished by crew members before being further managed by officers from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).
All 271 passengers, including 139 Singaporean nationals, were successfully evacuated without injury. Four passengers were taken to hospital for further medical examination. MPA had initially reported the number of passengers as 224, including 185 Singaporean nationals, but the figure was revised following a data update.
Of the ship’s total complement of 388 crew members, none held Singaporean citizenship. The deceased Indonesian crew member was transferred ashore. MPA stated that the relevant authorities are handling subsequent proceedings and that the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore has been notified.
The vessel is now in a stable condition and anchored at Raffles Reserved Anchorage, a designated area within the Port of Singapore used for specific purposes such as repairs, storage, and cargo handling. MPA established a safety zone around the ship and issued a navigational broadcast advising other vessels to keep clear of the area.
MPA patrol boats, police coast guard units, and SCDF personnel remain on site to manage the situation. A survey team from the classification body appointed by the ship’s owner is scheduled to board the vessel to assess the extent of the damage and determine the repairs required before the ship can resume operations.
The first group of 190 passengers was disembarked at HarbourFront Ferry Terminal following the evacuation process. When media personnel arrived at Singapore Cruise Centre at approximately 11:00, passengers were observed disembarking from the vessel, passing through customs checks, and undergoing interviews with Singapore Police officers.
The ship’s operator, World Cruises, stated that it is cooperating fully with local authorities. “The safety of our passengers and crew is our utmost priority,” the company said, adding that further information would be provided as it becomes available.