A YACHT washed up on the west of Ireland coast had travelled 3,000 kilometres across the Atlantic, it has emerged.
The Illumia 12 yacht washed up on Fermoyle Strand in west Kerry on Tuesday evening, November 28.
Following its recovery, the boat was secured by both Valentia Coast Guard and Dingle Coast Guard.
The vessel was abandoned off Newfoundland almost six months ago on June 11 this year after its Italian skipper Michele Zambelli was rescued when the boat started taking on water.
The boat was secured by both Dingle and Valentia Coast Guards. (Picture: RTÉ)The 26 year old was competing in a transatlantic race when his nine-metre sailboat ran into trouble after it collided with a whale which broke the keel.
Mr Zambelli will be reunited with his boat in Ireland next week. (Picture: RTÉ)At the time, he told CBC that once he knew he was safe, he looked out of the rescue helicopter at the Illumia 12 and was 'heartbroken.'
While it was originally thought the boat sunk within a matter of hours, Mr Zambelli told RTÉ News that he was 'so happy' it had been found.
"I thought I would never see my boat again, I'm really looking forward to coming to Ireland to see her," he said.
"I hope I can repair the boat and start off for a new trip with her."
It's believed Mr Zambelli will travel to Ireland next week to be reunited with his boat.
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