Drunk youths in 'lucky escape' from yacht

Five youths are lucky to be unharmed after what has been described as a boating trip where nothing was done right.

Police were notified of a yacht which had beached at Tait's Beach north of Napier just after eight last night.

Acting Senior Sergeant Leah Hepi says the group were found to be incredibly intoxicated, including the 17-year-old skipper.

She says the yacht was in poor condition and contained no lifejackets or a marine radio.

She says they are very lucky.

There were five drownings in the area last year and already two this year.

She says a few simple precautions - such as taking lifejackets - can save lives.

The incident has been referred to the Maritime Safety Authority.

- NEWSTALK ZB