Thick, black smoke billowed from a boat engulfed in flames off the coast of Chelsea Beach in Melbourne’s southeast around 11:40 a.m., creating a dramatic scene visible from the shore.

According to police reports, the 12-meter vessel had one individual aboard when the fire broke out.

A nearby boat rescued the person, who was subsequently examined by paramedics on land.

Firefighters were observed tackling the blaze from the water shortly after noon, but by 12:30 p.m., the boat had sunk beneath the waves.

Authorities, including water police, are present at the site of the incident.

Fire Rescue Victoria have been contacted for comment.

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