Fire-damaged vessels are increasingly left waiting offshore for months as ports around the world refuse to offer refuge, despite mounting risks from hazardous cargoes and lithium-ion batteries. In 2024, insurers reported a decade-high 250 vessel fires, with 30% involving container, cargo, or ro-ro ships. Legal and salvage experts highlight cases like the Northern Juvenile and Wan Hai 503, which faced months-long delays before finding a port willing to accept them, resulting in additional costs and heightened dangers. Ports remain hesitant due to fears of pollution, wreck removal liabilities, and legal fallout—concerns amplified since the Prestige disaster. As container ships grow larger and hazardous cargoes become more common, experts are calling for more ports to recognize the need—and business opportunity—of providing refuge and specialized services for ship casualties.