Rescue crews faced dangerous conditions including choppy waters and strong winds.(Marine Rescue NSW)
The man reported having at least a foot of water already in the boat when he contacted rescue teams.
"This was pretty critical today, there was a vessel sinking with a man onboard⦠so the first ones in had to go," Marine Rescue crew member Alan Brook told 9News.
Rescuers battled "perilous conditions" to reach the sinking vessel located five nautical miles east of Brush Island between Kioloa and Bawley Point, Marine Rescue NSW said.
Alan Brook from NSW Marine Rescue who was involved in the rescue of a sailor from his sinking boat.(9News)