Red Funnel Ferry Strikes Yachts In Cowes Harbor

A ferry struck several yachts and was stranded on the Isle of Wight.

The Red Falcon "came into contact" with a number of boats while he was attempting to moor at Cowes Harbor, said Red Funnel operator.

A member of the public called 999 to report that he had heard calls for help from the port.

None of the 40 passengers on board was injured and a search for debris in the water is underway, the ferry company said.

The ferry, which left Southampton for East Cowes at 07:00, experienced difficulties an hour later entering the harbor in a thick fog.

The ship is motionless about 50 m from the esplanade. Red Funnel said the ship was waterproof and attempts were underway to bail it out.

A spokesman added: "If that fails, another attempt will be made at the next high tide."

The lifeboats of Cowes and Calshot are present.