A ferry crashed into at least two yachts before running aground on the Isle of Wight during heavy fog.
The Red Falcon, which was carrying 56 people including 40 passengers from Southampton, had been trying to berth at the entrance of Cowes Harbour.
HM Coastguard launched a search of the area after witnesses reported hearing cries for help following the incident at around 8am on Sunday.
“We are currently carrying out an extensive search of the area with Cowes RNLI lifeboat, Calshot RNLI lifeboats and Coastguard Rescue Teams from Bembridge, Needles and Ventnor,” said a spokesperson.
“A coastguard search and rescue helicopter was searching the area but due to the low visibility in the area had to turn back. The search is ongoing and we have no further information at this stage.”
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) later confirmed the cries for help came from a yachtsman who was trying to alert the master of the ferry.
Ferry company Red Funnel said the Red Falcon ship remained watertight and had been safely refloated to allow all passengers and vehicles to disembark.
“The 7am vehicle ferry sailing from Southampton to East Cowes came into contact with several small yachts whilst entering Cowes Harbour at 8am this morning in dense fog,” said a spokesperson.
“No injuries have been sustained to any of the 40 passengers on board.
“Cowes Harbour has now reopened and Red Funnel’s Red Jet Southampton-West Cowes service will resume shortly.”
The MCA asked for witnesses to contact its investigations and enforcement unit.
