AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after the Red Funnel car ferry, the Red Falcon, hit moored yachts, ran aground and prompted a search and rescue mission.

As previously reported, the 7am sailing from Southampton ran aground just off East Cowes, leaving passengers onboard until 11am.

Cowes RNLI, Calshot RNLI and Coastguard Rescue Teams from Ventnor and Bembridge searched the water for anybody in danger as cries for help were heard near the harbour.

Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said: "At approximately 8am in thick fog and on arrival into East Cowes, the Red Falcon made contact with a number of unmanned moored yachts and subsequently went aground with 40 passengers on board.

"Contrary to some media coverage, there are no reports of anyone entering the water and there are no reported injuries to anybody involved in this incident.

"The Red Falcon was refloated at 10.55am and is now safely alongside in East Cowes. All passengers and vehicles have been discharged.

"The ship will now undergo a preliminary inspection before moving to Southampton for a detailed investigation.

"On behalf of Red Funnel, I would like to sincerely apologise to all those affected by this incident.

"I would also like to emphasise that Red Funnel places the safety of our passengers and crew as our highest priority and we have commenced a full investigation into this incident."

The Maritime Coastguard Agency have put out an appeal for any witnesses who saw the collision, the grounding and/or any passengers onboard the Red Falcon.

Those who saw anything should contact MCA Investigations and Enforcement Unit via email at enforcement.unit@mcga.gov.uk leaving their contact details so they can get in touch.

As a result of the incident, Red Funnel are running a revised vehicle service for today. The East Cowes to Southampton service is expected to be delayed by at least three hours.