A P&O ferry diverted to offer its services as part of a rescue operation in South Ayrshire today.
Mercy crews dashed to reports of a capsized small vessel and people in the water off Ballantrae Harbour shortly after 2pm.
And local residents with their own boat played a heroic role as they launched their vessel to reach the scene first.
The RNLI's Girvan lifeboat was among those to join the effort along with Ballantrae and Girvan Coastguard rescue teams and the Coastguard Rescue helicopter R199.
And P&O's European Causeway ferry diverted and stood by off Ballantrae Harbour ready to render assistance.
Lifeboat teams arrived just moments after the local vessel had recovered the casualties.
A lifeboat spokesperson said: "With concerns for the health of the casualties, one of whom appeared to to showing symptoms of being hypothermic, preparations were being made for a landing of the helicopter.
"As the helicopter began its decent, the ambulance arrived and the casualties were swiftly placed in the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service paramedics.
"In this instance there happened to be a local with a boat that was really close by who were able to assist launching their boat and going to help before any assets arrived on scene.
"Well done to the crew for their swift action in assisting the casualties and local Coastguard teams and also to the individuals who recognised that the casualties were in trouble and made that all important 999 call.
"Well done to all the individuals in the village from making that 999 call, to individuals heading out in their own boat to rescue the casualties, your actions made a difference today."
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