Mayday in the Dark: Sailors Stranded on Rocks in Wild Sea Rescue Drama off Port Stephens
Two men have been dramatically rescued after their sailing vessel became stranded on submerged rocks off Fingal Island in a late-night emergency operation involving multiple rescue agencies.
About 7.30pm on Wednesday 22 April 2026, emergency services were alerted after a Mayday call was issued by a sailing crew in distress off Port Stephens.
Port Stephens Water Police and Marine Rescue NSW responded and located the 10-metre sailing vessel grounded on rocks in difficult conditions, with darkness, strong southerly winds and moderate seas hampering rescue efforts.
Due to the challenging environment, additional air support was called in from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and CHC’s Chopper 21.
The two men on board, aged 54 and 69, were winched to safety by Chopper 21 and transported to Williamtown Airport.
NSW Ambulance paramedics treated both men for minor injuries and hypothermia after the rescue.
Port Stephens Water Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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