A couple aboard their yacht suffered a harrowing encounter when their vessel struck a sperm whale hundreds of miles off New Zealand’s coast. The collision, which occurred during what was meant to be a routine voyage, raised questions about marine safety and the risks of sailing in whale-populated waters. Authorities are now investigating the incident, which has drawn attention to the challenges of navigating areas where large marine animals are present. Details on the condition of the boat and passengers remain under review as experts assess the unusual event.


Jeremy and Gemma Cooper were 500 miles off the coast of New Zealand when their yacht, the Tai Tam, collided with a sperm whale.