Man fighting for life after setting himself on fire on a boat near The Quays Marina, Pittwater

A man is in a critical condition with serious burns after setting himself on fire at a popular marina.

Police were called to The Quays Marina on the shores of Pittwater, overlooking Scotland Island on Sydney’s northern beaches, on Wednesday afternoon after reports of welfare concerns.

Sydney Water Police officers approached a man, 61, on a boat regarding the alleged activation of a distress beacon.

While police were talking to him, the man allegedly poured the contents of a jerry can on himself.

The cigarette he was smoking at the time ignited the liquid and caused him to burst into flames.

Police managed to extinguish the fire and provided first aid while they waited for the ambulance to arrive.

A man is in critical condition after allegedly setting himself on fire at The Quays Marina in Pittwater, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches

The man was taken to Concord Hospital in critical but stable condition.

A critical incident team will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, which will be subject to an independent review.

Lifeline 13 11 14

Beyond Blue 1300 224 636