An RNLI spokesman said the crews faced strong south-south-westerly winds and rough seas as the inshore lifeboat pulled the yacht off the rocks before the larger lifeboat took it under tow.

BBC: French yacht hits rocks outside Jersey's harbour

Because the Triumph is under tow and moving so slowly, it will take seven to 10 hours for the ship to travel up the channel to the port where passengers will be able to get off, Carnival Vice President of Revenue and Planning Terry Thornton told reporters.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Photos and video taken of the rescue show Kelly and others placing a tow line under the horse's saddle and securing it to the boat.

CNN: Horse rescued after swimming 2 miles into ocean