Police have rescued two people from a sinking yacht that ran aground off the coast of north-west Tasmania.
The 42-foot yacht struck rocks just after midnight on Friday near Fossil Bluff and Table Cape, quickly taking on water.
Emergency services were quick to the scene, with officers on land and in the water, along with a rescue helicopter, arriving as the yacht began sinking around 5:45am.
A police rescue swimmer was winched down from the helicopter and swam to the stricken vessel, helping one of the crew members to shore.
The officer then returned to assist the second person before all three were winched to safety.
Neither of the yacht’s occupants needed medical attention.
Inspector Adam Spencer said the two people on board were well-prepared for their time at sea.
“Even well prepared and experienced people can run into difficulties at sea,” he said.
“Tasmania Police urges everyone to ensure they are well prepared before heading to sea and to ensure their vessel is equipped with the required safety gear and is capable of the journey.”
