And he said he had fears for the safety and was relieved when he was told on Friday the Royal Navy was en route.

The professional sailor said: "There were maybe a few doubts in my mind but when I knew HMS Dragon was coming for us, I knew it was going to be a positive outcome.

"We are really pleased the Navy took up the challenge to come and rescue us."

Travelling at a top speed of around 30 knots, the warship arrived at the yacht's position - some 610 miles south west of Land's End - at around 2.30pm on Saturday.

The operation concluded at around 5pm and all crew members were said to be "alive and well".

They were treated for "bumps and bruises" and given hot food, including steak and chips, as well as the chance to call their families once on board the vessel.

Crew member Elisabeth Ligethy, from Glasgow, said she had been below deck and was thrown 10ft when the wave hit the yacht.