Fire crews raced Friday evening to contain a massive fire that erupted at the historic Custom House Wharf in Portland, Maine, a popular part of the Old Port waterfront filled with restaurants, shops, and working fishing vessels. The blaze destroyed at least one building, damaged others, and sank a boat as firefighters worked through difficult winter conditions to control the flames.
The fire broke out shortly after 5 p.m. Friday, spreading quickly along the aging wharf area that once served as a central hub for commercial fishing in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Fire crews from Portland, South Portland, and Westbrook responded, with some units using a fire boat to spray water from the harbor due to frozen hydrants hampering traditional firefighting efforts.
One building was considered a total loss, and flames and heavy smoke drew emergency responses from across the region as firefighters worked to prevent further spread. The historic waterfront’s mix of wooden structures and closely spaced buildings likely contributed to rapid fire escalation before crews could mount a full attack.
Two firefighters sustained minor injuries battling the blaze, but neither required hospitalization, according to local reports. Authorities urged residents and visitors to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to work safely and efficiently.
Local businesses and community members reacted with alarm as news of the fire spread. The Porthole Restaurant and Pub, located on the wharf, announced it survived the blaze and remained open, offering a gathering place for residents and visitors in the aftermath of the fire. The establishment also expressed gratitude for first responders and for the safety of its neighbors.
Maine Gov. Janet Mills said her administration was monitoring the situation closely, urging the public to follow safety directions from first responders as the fire was brought under control around 7:22 p.m.. Officials continue investigating the cause of the fire, which remains unknown at this time.
Several boats moored along the wharf were damaged in the blaze, with at least one vessel sinking amidst the chaos. Fire officials faced challenges from the cold weather, particularly frozen hydrants that complicated water access, making the coordinated response crucial to limiting greater destruction.
The Old Port area, known for its historic character and economic importance to Portland’s tourism and fishing industries, now faces cleanup and recovery efforts. Community leaders and residents are assessing damage and planning for repairs, underscoring the importance of resilient infrastructure in older coastal communities.
