A significant fire caused extensive damage to the historic Old Port waterfront in Portland, Maine, on Friday night, the day after Christmas. The blaze damaged ageing structures and multiple vessels along Custom House Wharf, with at least one boat sinking.
Firefighters Battle Flames and Frozen Hydrants
The Portland Fire Department was alerted to the incident on the evening of Friday, 26 December 2025. Authorities reported that flames and smoke spread rapidly through the interconnected structures on the wharf, a historic 19th- and 20th-century centre for the city's fishing industry now home to popular seafood restaurants.
Firefighting efforts were hampered by frozen fire hydrants, forcing crews to employ alternative methods. According to news reports, first responders deployed a fire boat to pump water directly from the harbour to help douse the flames. One firefighter sustained minor injuries during the operation. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Community Response and Safety Confirmed
In response to the emergency, the Portland Fire Department issued an "incident notification" on Facebook just before 6 p.m., advising local residents to exercise caution and avoid the area.
The Porthole Restaurant, a business located on the wharf, took to social media to address community concerns. "WE ARE SAFE. We want everyone to know that all of our staff, fishermen, and owners are safe," the establishment posted. They also expressed gratitude for the public's support, stating, "Mainers are truly the best kind of people."
Assessing the Damage to a Historic Hub
The full extent of the damage is still being evaluated, but the impact on the iconic waterfront is clear. Several boats were damaged in the blaze, with authorities confirming that at least one vessel sank alongside the wharf.
Custom House Wharf represents a vital piece of Portland's maritime heritage. This incident underscores the vulnerabilities faced by historic districts, where ageing infrastructure and closely built wooden structures can facilitate the spread of fire.
The community now faces the task of recovery and restoration for one of its most cherished historic areas.
