UK – Fire breaks out aboard bulk carrier at Cardiff port

August 31, 2026

A fire broke out aboard the bulk carrier Federal Welland at Queen Alexandra Docks in Cardiff on Tuesday, August 25, prompting an emergency response at the Port of Cardiff.

The vessel, which is registered in the Marshall Islands, was carrying around 20,000 tonnes of scrap metal when the blaze began inside one of its cargo holds. Smoke was seen rising from the ship as emergency crews, including firefighting tugs, moved in to assist.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) was among the agencies responding to the incident. The service confirmed that every member of the vessel’s crew was safe and accounted for.

There was no immediate danger to members of the public, according to authorities. However, people living and working close to the port were advised to keep their windows and doors shut while smoke remained in the area.

The effects of the fire were still noticeable later in the day, with local residents reporting that they could smell smoke from the port on Tuesday evening.

Associated British Ports (ABP), which operates the Port of Cardiff, said it was supporting the emergency response and working alongside SWFRS and other agencies involved in dealing with the incident.