A major three-alarm fire caused significant damage to the historic Old Port waterfront in Portland, Maine, on Friday, 26 December 2025. The blaze, which broke out around 5:30 p.m., led to a large-scale emergency response, resulted in the sinking of one vessel, and caused damage to multiple commercial buildings.
Firefighters Battle Intense Blaze on Historic Pier
According to officials, the fire was first spotted by ferry passengers on the Custom House Wharf, a prominent pier extending into the harbour. Fire crews arriving within minutes faced "significant smoke and fire" spreading through several structures. The response was quickly escalated, drawing in additional units from neighbouring towns and a fireboat to combat the flames from the water.
The operation was notably challenging. Fire department officials stated that intense fire conditions, multiple exposure risks, limited access on the wharf, and a partial structural collapse forced crews to adopt a defensive strategy to contain the spread.
Minor Injuries and Substantial Damage Reported
Thankfully, no members of the public were hurt in the incident. However, two firefighters sustained minor injuries that did not require hospital treatment. The physical toll on the area was more severe.
Alongside damage to several buildings on the iconic wharf, a number of boats were affected. Officials confirmed that at least one vessel sank as a result of the fire. The blaze was finally declared under control at approximately 7:20 p.m., nearly two hours after it began.
"Given the age of the structures and obviously, the potential of fire spread down here, everybody did a really great job to work really hard to stop the fire where we did," Deputy Fire Chief John Hendricks remarked during a press conference.
Investigation Underway as Community Reacts
The origin and cause of the three-alarm fire remain unknown and are now the subject of an investigation by the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office. Authorities have advised the public to exercise caution in the area due to ongoing hotspot monitoring and potential icy conditions from firefighting efforts.
Local businesses expressed their shock and solidarity on social media in the aftermath. The Porthole Restaurant, a nearby seafood establishment, stated it would remain open as a "familiar place to gather," while extending gratitude to first responders and concern for impacted neighbours. The Thirsty Pig pub shared messages of safety for those in the Old Port area.
This incident has struck at the heart of Portland's cherished historic and commercial district, with the full extent of the damage and the fire's cause yet to be determined.
