Dramatic footage captured by an Isle of Wight resident aboard a P&O cruise shows the moment their ship came to the rescue of stricken sailors off the coast of Mexico.

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The Islander, from Shanklin, was travelling on the Ventura with his wife over the weekend when the incident unfolded.

He told the County Press he was first made aware something was wrong when the 947 foot-long vessel was suddenly turned around after picking up a distress call.

He saw three sailors, one man and two women, in difficulty. He said the sails, rigging and outboard engine on their yacht, 'failed' in rough seas.

Isle of Wight County Press: The yacht in choppy waters.The yacht in choppy waters. (Image: Contributed)

The Ventura, a P&O vessel, approached the boat on its port side, the Islander said, and an elderly male was safely taken aboard.

He said: "As the yacht was finally secured alongside the Ventura, the sail mast started to strike the side of the ship and began to collapse.

"With the mast partially collapsed and flailing about, there was a risk of this striking the two female passengers.

"Thankfully both safely made it on board."

Isle of Wight County Press: The view from the Ventura.The view from the Ventura. (Image: Contributed)

He told the County Press the sailors were taken straight down to the medical centre for assessment.

The captain later announced that all three were safe and well.

Shortly after the rescue a storm hit the ship, he said, and the waters became 'perilous and dangerous.'

The County Press has contacted P&O for comment.