A yachtsman came within seconds of being run over by a Red Funnel ferry at 14.50 on Saturday afternoon, 13 June.

According to witnesses the captain of the ferry, anticipating a problem, issued warning blasts while the sailing boat was some way off.

Undaunted, or unaware of the danger, the yacht continued on a collision course with the ferry, despite the horn blasts becoming more frequent. Even a crowd of passengers gathered on the front deck to watch the drama unfolding.

It appears that the Red Funnel captain then attempted to stop the ferry by cutting its engine, or putting it in reverse, as it distinctly slowed. This allowed the yacht to pass just yards in front.

Images are courtesy of BoatPhotos.co.uk .