The fire that engulfed an inter-island ferry at Levuka this week had been caused accidentally, said the National Fire Authority.
NFA Chief Fire Officer Mark Reid said it appeared that the fire was started by a worker with blow torch conducting rust prevention works.
"There is no evidence to suggest any other cause of fire,'' said Mr. Reid who heaped praise on the Levuka community in helping extinguish the blaze.
"I believe this has been a very successful operation and I would like to thank all NFA staff and volunteers who worked very hard over long hours to achieve this result," he said.
"I would also like to thank all of the supporting agencies and authorities and businesses in Levuka for supporting our fire-fighting effort."
Mr. Reid is expected in Levuka to today to personally thank all parties who had assisted to controlling the blaze which occurred on Monday afternoon.
Twelve firefighters from the Levuka fire station had initially responded to the fire on the vessel, which has been moored in Levuka for the last few months.
The fire which started in the afternoon quickly spread through the upper accommodation areas of the ship producing large volumes of black toxic smoke forcing fire fighters to used breathing apparatus.
Mr. Reid said additional fire officers arrived in Levuka yesterday morning to help determine remove the water that had accumulated in the hull during fire-fighting operations.
He said fire officers are expected to watch over the ship for the next few days to ensure all hot spots have been extinguished.
Venu Haulage and Shipping Ltd's Ben Naidu, whose company runs the Sinu I Wasa III could not be reached for a comment yesterday.