Search after man falls overboard in WA

An extensive search operation is underway for a man who fell overboard a private boat near Rottnest Island off the WA coast earlier this afternoon.

A search operation is underway for a man who fell overboard near Rottnest Island off the coast of Western Australia.

The 57-year-old fell from a vessel about 4pm on Sunday while travelling from Rottnest Island to Hillarys Boat Harbour, WA Police say.

Marine sea rescue crews are working with rescue officials to find the man after he was reported missing.

Twelve boats and a helicopter will continue scouring waters for the missing man overnight.