Around 35 people were on board the Sea Venture , which was moored in Hamilton when the fires were discovered shortly before 6 p.m. on Wednesday.

Smoke began pouring from the bridge and a little while later from the engine room, after a short circuit in the vessel's electrical system, causing $2,000 damage.

West end passenger Rachael Killingworth, who was on the ferry at the time, said fellow travellers left the vessel after becoming concerned at the situation, when "thick black smoke'' began pouring from the bridge.

Marine and Ports director Ron Ross said the crew extinguished the fires using on board equipment, before the arrival of the Fire Service. The boat is now in the yard at Marine & Ports for repairs.

TRANSPORTATION TRA