A missing boat is posing a potential hazard to other vessels.
On Saturday, August 15, a white 14ft cabin cruiser with a brown stripe capsized near the mouth of the River Tyne shortly before 3pm.
The sinking cruiser's crew of three managed to call for help using a VHF radio and were later rescued from the water and transferred to a waiting ambulance, South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade and Tynemouth RNLI lifeboat confirmed.
The vessel has not been recovered and its current position remains unknown, prompting a warning to mariners to take extra caution.
Greg Maitland, harbour master at the Port of Tyne, said: "Following the capsize, the vessel has subsequently been lost from sight and its present position and condition are unknown.
"It is probable that the vessel has sunk; however, the possibility that it remains submerged or partially submerged cannot be excluded and may therefore present a hazard to navigation."
He urged mariners to take extra care in the Seaward Approaches to the River Tyne.
Mr Maitland said: "Mariners navigating in the Seaward Approaches to the River Tyne are requested to proceed with caution, maintain a sharp lookout and navigate at a safe speed, having regard to the possibility of a partially or wholly submerged obstruction."
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He also called on anyone who spots the vessel or related debris to notify authorities immediately.
Mr Maitland said: "Any sighting of the vessel, floating wreckage or debris believed to be associated should be reported immediately, together with the position and any other relevant information."
Mariners are also requested to report any oil, fuel or other signs of pollution observed in the vicinity to Tyne VTS on VHF Channel 12 or by telephone on 0191 427 8143.
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