The owner of a sailing yacht that was washed ashore near Tamanu on South Efate during rough sea conditions last weekend has been confirmed safe.

The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA) said the vessel, named Apu Ora, encountered strong seas while travelling from New Zealand to Port Resolution on Tanna.

According to VMSA, the yacht’s owner attempted to divert to Port Vila after marine warnings were issued, but rough conditions pushed the vessel ashore.

Video shared on social media and obtained by VBTC News showed the yacht lying on its side on the beach near Tamanu.

VMSA officials and other law enforcement agencies later inspected the vessel.

The authority said all equipment on board remained operational, although minor damage was reported to the yacht’s rudder.

Officials are continuing to monitor sea conditions and say efforts to return the vessel to the water will depend on calmer weather.

The yacht, Apu Ora, is registered in Poland.