Operator #1 stated in effect:  We left Tottenville Marina and were about a mile out when we started having engine problems. All of a sudden, there was an explosion in the engine compartment.  I opened it up and there was a large fire which was spreading quickly.  Within seconds we had no choice but to jump overboard.  My wife and I jumped in without life vests and began treading water. The boat quickly sank and within about 5 minutes another boater arrived to help us.

Investigation Revealed: Vessel #1 was being operated at a speed of Approximately 5 knots eastbound in Raritan Bay.  For an unknown reason, an explosion occurred in the engine compartment resulting in a rapidly spreading fire. Occupants of vessel #1 jumped overboard without PFDs to escape the flames. The majority oh the vessel quickly sank below the water surface. Both occupants were rescued bo a good samaritan boater and then transferred to a Coast Guard vessel.

The cause is unknown.
Old Bridge Twp