an offshore off-licence and its cargo of cut-price booze and cigarettes has been detained by Customs and Excise officers.

Last night, Philip Berriman, one of the owners of the 72ft yacht Rich Harvest, vowed to fight the move, claiming it was carried out illegally.

It took place after the £1.8m Rich Harvest, which has been anchored in international waters 13 miles off the coast of Hartlepool, sailed into the marina on Saturday for minor repairs.

Mr Berriman, a marine engineer from Stockton, said he believed he had an agreement to discuss the situation with Customs and Excise officials while work was being carried out on the yacht - after which he would be allowed to put back to sea.

"They came down Sunday morning and said the agreement was null and void," he said.

"They couldn't give us any reason for this, and said they had instructions from above. They said their hands were tied."

Officials, who have launched an investigation into the maritime business venture, then removed the cargo from Rich Harvest, which last night was still moored at the marina.

Mr Berriman claims he is being made an example of, to prevent others taking advantage of a legal loophole he says he has found, which allows him to re-sell alcohol and cigarettes bought from an EU state or a country outside the EU - not bought in international waters.

A spokesman for Customs and Excise said: "The detained excise goods have been removed by Customs in the belief they are neither declared nor duty paid.

"Customs will make additional inquiries before any further action is taken."