World Cruises Cruise Company. Photo: shutterstock Tragedy at sea: A fire broke out early this morning (Friday, February 20, 2026) on board the World Cruises cruise ship World Legacy.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) reported that one crew member was killed and another was seriously injured.
The authority, which is responsible for all maritime and port matters in the country, including vessel safety, also reported that the fire occurred on deck nine of the ship and was extinguished by marine firefighters from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).
It was also reported that 271 passengers were safely evacuated from the ship registered in Liberia. "The first group of 190 passengers has been safely evacuated to HarbourFront Ferry Terminal. Evacuation of the remaining passengers is ongoing."
The authority also reported that "a core crew will remain onboard for safety checks and essential operations, while the rest of the crew will disembark progressively."
The authority's Facebook announcement went on to explain that: "MPA has established a safety zone around the vessel and is issuing navigational broadcasts to advise passing vessels to keep clear. The cause of the fire is under investigation."
The message revealed that the crew member who died was an Indonesian national who had been transferred to the mainland. "The relevant authorities are handling the necessary follow-up, and the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore has been informed."