'Flying' ship phenomenon a-lights off Cork coast 

The superior mirage phenomenon could be the explanation for some of the most notorious 'ghost ships' in sea folklore, such as the Flying Dutchman

The photo taken by Dr Maria Kirrane, UCC sustainability officer, off the Fountainstown coast back in October showing the 'flying ship' phenomenon, which scientists say is a "superior mirage" caused by special conditions in the atmosphere.

The 'flying ship' phenomenon that went viral around the world with a natural trick of the light has now reached Irish shores with a similarly bamboozling picture taken off the Cork coast.

University College Cork (UCC) sustainability officer, Dr Maria Kirrane, was on a leisurely stroll with her newborn baby when she came across the strangest of sights near Fountainstown.