A BOAT towed into Tuncurry this afternoon after a suspected on-board fire has been inspected by fire crews. 

Restless' owner called Marine Rescue at about 12pm to report smoke and a crew set out to take passengers off the cruiser. 

However, a nearby fisherman towed the vessel back into Tuncurry. When the boat arrived, fire crews inspected the vessel closely to ensure there was no danger on board. 

12.30pm

A CRUISER is currently being towed into Forster after a suspected fire on board. 

Marine Rescue was alerted to a possible fire on board the boat Restless off the coast of Forster and crews prepared to make their way out to the vessel. 

Spokesman Grant Maxwell said the initial emphasis would be on getting anyone on board off, and then assessing how they could assist the boat after that. 

“Safety is our priority,” he said. 

However, the crew was notified shortly afterward that the boat was being towed in by a private vessel. While there was no report of a fire on board, there was confirmation of a large amount of smoke, Mr Maxwell said.