Wightlink ferry skilfully navigates Solent while avoiding hundreds of Round the Island Race yachts

Watch as a Wightlink ferry masterfully manoeuvres the Solent while hundreds of yachts race around the island.

Each year, thousands of sailors flock to the area for the annual Round the Island race, which consists of a 50 nautical mile course around the Isle of Wight.

This year, the event took place on Saturday, July 11 attracting hundreds of vessels - and the Wightlink ferries had to work around them.

Incredible footage by My Portsmouth By Drone has captured the moment a ferry has gracefully navigated the open water, while avoiding multiple yachts in its path.

A spokesperson for Wightlink said: “The Solent is one of the busiest waterways in the UK and, during events such as the Round the Island Race, there can be hundreds of vessels sharing the water at the same time.

“It's estimated that there were around 800 boats in the race at the weekend.Our Masters and bridge teams are highly trained and experienced in operating safely in these conditions and regularly navigate around a wide range of leisure and commercial craft.

“We work closely with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, harbour authorities, race organisers and other maritime partners, maintaining regular communications throughout the event to help ensure the safe movement of all vessels using the Solent. The safety of our customers, crews and other water users is always our highest priority.”