A major fire has broken out on a safari vessel anchored near Hulhumalé, prompting an emergency response from authorities.

The incident involved the vessel "Emperor Explorer", which was positioned between Hulhumalé and Kurumba Maldives resort.

According to the Maldives Police Service, the fire was reported at approximately 16:55 PM on Saturday.

Authorities indicated that the blaze caused extensive damage, rendering the vessel unusable.

While the exact cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, eyewitnesses reported to voice that the flames appeared to have originated from the stern.

They added that the fire spread rapidly, engulfing the entire vessel within minutes after smoke was first noticed.

Police also confirmed that two crew members were taken to Hulhumalé Hospital for treatment after suffering from smoke inhalation.

At the time of the incident, the vessel was reportedly prepared for a scheduled trip.

Firefighters from the MNDF Malé Area Command, along with the Hulhumalé Fire Station, responded swiftly to the inicident as reported by MNDF. 

No further details have been revealed yet.