A major multi-agency search and rescue operation is currently underway in the Irish Sea following alarming reports of a man going overboard from a passenger ferry. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, prompting a swift and coordinated response from maritime emergency services.
Coastguard and RNLI Mobilise Immediately
HM Coastguard confirmed that they received the distress call concerning the Stranraer to Larne ferry service at precisely 1:21 pm on Thursday. In response, they deployed significant resources to the scene. The rescue teams involved include Larne Coastguard Rescue Team, Portmuck Coastguard Rescue Team, and an HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) also launched its assets without delay. Their all-weather lifeboat stationed in Larne was dispatched at 1:25 pm, just minutes after the initial alert. Subsequently, the RNLI crew based in Donaghadee was requested to assist, launching their own all-weather lifeboat at 2:45 pm to join the expanding search effort.
Ferry Company Confirms Incident Onboard
P&O Ferries has officially acknowledged that an incident took place aboard the European Highlander ferry while it was en route to Larne. In a statement, the company said, "We are working closely with the relevant authorities, who are actively responding. Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of all involved, and we will provide further updates as more information becomes available."
The European Highlander, described by P&O as one of the fastest ferries operating on the Irish Sea, is a twin-deck vessel capable of carrying up to 410 passengers, 375 cars, or 116 commercial vehicles. It typically completes the crossing from Scotland to Larne in approximately two hours and runs six daily sailings.
Search Area and Additional Assistance
Maritime traffic monitoring websites indicated that the European Highlander and several rescue boats were concentrated in an area of the Irish Sea east of the East Maiden’s Lighthouse during the hours following the incident. The RNLI has noted that crews from other vessels in the vicinity are also providing assistance to the search operation, broadening the scope of the effort.
The search remains active, with all participating teams focused on locating the individual reported overboard. Authorities continue to coordinate closely, and updates are expected as the situation develops.
