A couple from the UK is facing challenges in the Atlantic Ocean after the mast of their self-constructed sailboat broke during strong winds.

Sam Coltman, 32, and his partner Kelda Smith, 31, were sailing on their boat, Tonks, approximately 350 miles off the Azores coast when the incident occurred yesterday.

The duo was heading back to Falmouth in Cornwall after a three-year voyage across Europe, the eastern US coast, and the Caribbean.

Having covered 2,200 miles over 25 days from St Martin to the Azores, the mast of their boat collapsed due to severe gales. This mishap followed an earlier engine failure due to a broken water pump.

Sam described the unsettling moment when he discovered the missing mast, expressing disbelief and concern about their home, which they had lived on for six years and painstakingly built from scratch.

Despite the challenges, Sam, Kelda, and their friend Alessa Decker remain optimistic as they navigate towards land, fashioning a temporary sail using a storm jib.

Friends of the couple have initiated a fundraiser to assist with the repair and recovery costs as the group slowly progresses at about two knots.

Jasper Troje Tuck, a friend who launched the fundraiser, confirmed the safety of everyone on board while acknowledging the need for significant financial support to restore the vessel and ensure a safe return to Cornwall.

The couple aims to raise £12,000 for repairs, with over £7,000 already donated. To contribute to the fund, visit the provided link.