Floating Restaurant 'The Dive' Engulfed in Flames on Lake Winnipesaukee; All Evacuated Safely

Over the weekend, The Dive, a popular floating bar and restaurant on Lake Winnipesaukee, caught fire near Smalls Cove while hundreds of boaters were on the water. Witnesses told WMUR-TV they heard an explosion-like sound before thick smoke and flames erupted, creating a dramatic scene on the lake.

Multiple local fire departments and Marine Patrol units responded quickly, dispatching vessels to fight the blaze. Fighting a fire on open water posed unique challenges because crews could not rely on hydrants and had to bring firefighting equipment by boat. Several bystanders swam out with handheld fire extinguishers to assist before fire crews arrived, a response officials and owners publicly praised.

Evacuation and Response

Everyone on board was evacuated safely and there were no reported injuries. Authorities emphasized that while the property damage is significant, the priority was protecting people — and that effort succeeded. The scene drew numerous nearby boats, which both witnessed the event and helped contain its worse effects until professional crews could take over.

Investigation and Owners' Statement

Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the blaze and continue to examine the scene. In an emotional social media post, the owners of The Dive described watching the business burn as heartbreaking, called it the hardest day of their tenure, and thanked those who rushed to help — particularly people who swam out with extinguishers.

Owner Statement: "We are grateful everyone is safe and deeply thankful to the first responders and bystanders who acted so quickly."

Boats and open flames are a dangerous combination, and the incident underscores both the risks of waterfront operations and the strength of the Lakes Region community. Officials and community members now hope The Dive can find a path to rebuild after the loss.