Major search operation stood down after report of man overboard on Cairnryan-Larne ferry
Last updated 13th Feb 2026
A major search operation in the Irish Sea has been stood down after a man was reported overboard from a P&O passenger ferry.
The vessel was travelling from Cairnryan to Larne when it happened yesterday afternoon.
Yesterday P&O Ferries confirmed an incident occurred onboard the European Highlander ferry while it was sailing to Larne.
A statement from HM Coastguard said, “At 1.21pm on 12 February, HM Coastguard responded to reports of a man overboard from a passenger vessel travelling between Larne and Stranraer.”
“Larne and Portmuck Coastguard Rescue Teams and RNLI Lifeboats from Larne and Donaghadee were sent, as well as an HM Coastguard rescue helicopter.”
“After extensive and thorough searches, the search has been stood down with nothing found at this time.”