Initially, naval engineers tried to save those of the cruisers, but needed additional help. Lifeboats from Great Yarmouth and Gorleston RNLI were then sent to the captured ships.
Rescuers said the timing of the operation was “critical” due to low tide and low tide and because the boats were tilting, putting people on board at greater risk.
The Hemsby lifeboat, which uses a flat-bottomed boat used to navigate Norfolk Broads, was also called in to help with the rescue and pulled the young mother and baby off the battered ship before returning for four others and the animals.
“They were extremely lucky”
Daniel Hurd, helmsman of the Hamsby lifeboat, said the cruiser’s engine was damaged and the fact that the boat had tilted meant “those on board are in some danger”.
“I would say they were extremely lucky,” Mr Hurd told the BBC. “The rescue was very well done – they really are saviors. If it weren’t for them, we probably still would be there.”
The shallow waters meant the lifeboat could not approach one of the ships, and a helicopter was sent by Humber’s Coast Guard to rescue the rest of the group, which remained stranded aboard the second cruiser.
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