There has been no final confirmation of a rescue outcome yet, and officials continue to provide updates.

The European Highlander is one of the fastest ferries on the Irish Sea, capable of carrying up to 410 passengers, 375 cars, and/or 116 commercial vehicles, typically making six daily crossings from Scotland to Larne.

The vessel operates with an approximate voyage time of about two hours between Scotland and Larne.

P&O Ferries canceled sailings for Stranraer and Larne and warned of delays to the 8pm sailing pending the ongoing investigation and rescue efforts.

The report is being updated as of 15:46 BST on February 12, 2026.

A search and rescue operation is underway after a person fell overboard from the P&O ferry European Highlander in the Irish Sea between Larne and Stranraer, with helicopters circling the coast and multiple vessels involved.

Larne RNLI launched its all-weather lifeboat at 13:25 GMT, followed by Donaghadee RNLI joining the search an hour later at 14:25 GMT.

Maritime traffic shows the European Highlander and rescue boats operating east of East Maiden’s Lighthouse as the search continues, with delays affecting Stranraer–Larne sailings and the 20:00 and 08:00 PM services.

In addition to the ferries, other vessels and a coastguard helicopter are assisting in the ongoing operation.