Overview
- HM Coastguard said it received reports at 1.21pm on February 12 of a man overboard from the European Highlander.
- A coordinated response involved Larne and Portmuck Coastguard rescue teams, RNLI lifeboats from Larne and Donaghadee, and an HM Coastguard helicopter.
- The RNLI launched its Larne all‑weather lifeboat at 1.25pm and Donaghadee’s at 2.45pm, with other vessels in the area assisting.
- Maritime tracking and local observers placed the search east of the East Maiden’s Lighthouse before the ferry returned to Larne.
- After extensive searches the operation was stood down with nothing found, and P&O reported cancellations with anticipated delays to evening sailings.