The 4 hour paddleboard nightmare in the Med

On Thursday night, July 10th, a dramatic rescue took place in the waters off La Duquesa (Manilva), as a paddle surfer who was being dragged far away from the shore and towards the Gibraltar Strait by strong currents. 

The operation, coordinated by Salvamento Marítimo (Sea Rescue services) and the Malaga Maritime Authority, ended successfully after hours of intense searching.

An alarm was raised shortly after 10pm by a passerby who reported a paddle surfer struggling to return to the land near Cubanga bar, about 800 metres from shore and 300 meters from a nearby rock breakwater. The woman who was part of the group found herself in challenging conditions due to westerly wind of around 15 knots with moderate seas.

The Tarifa Coordination Centre mobilised rapid resources by deploying both the Salvamar Gadir Rescue vessel and the Helimer220 helicopter. Nearby vessels were also asked to remain vigilant and report any sightings to Salvamento Marítimo or the nearest coastal station.

Salvamar Gadir’s crew found the woman after hours of searching. She was located at 1.40am approximately three nautical mile southeast of La Duquesa Marina. She was found clutching her paddleboard and showing signs hypothermia. Rescuers quickly rescued her and called an ambulance to get medical treatment.

Authorities remind the public to be cautious when participating in water sports and to remain vigilant to avoid a fun day turning into a nightmare.