RNLI Lifeguards Rescue Three Paddleboarders in Two Offshore Wind Incidents at Cranfield Point
- Pat Nolan
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
Tuesday 14 July 2026
RNLI lifeguards at Cranfield Point carried out two swift rescues on Sunday (13 July) after strong south-westerly offshore winds swept three paddleboarders into difficulty.
The first incident unfolded at around 12.30pm, when Lifeguard Matthew Whitaker spotted two paddleboarders preparing to enter the water. Despite attempts to warn them about the strengthening offshore conditions, the pair launched from the beach and were rapidly carried almost 500 metres offshore.
When one of the casualties abandoned their paddleboard and attempted to swim back to shore, Lifeguard Matthew Whitaker immediately entered the water on a rescue board. Reaching the pair, he secured their paddleboard by attaching it to his rescue board to prevent it drifting further away.
Lifeguard Joe Brennan McCann arrived moments later to assist, taking the second casualty onto his rescue board. Working together, the two lifeguards safely returned both paddleboarders to the beach without injury.
A second rescue followed at 2.24pm, when another paddleboarder entered the water from Cranfield Point and was quickly overwhelmed by the same persistent offshore winds. RNLI lifeguards responded immediately, bringing the casualty safely back to shore.
Following the incidents, Matthew Whitaker said:
"Offshore winds can catch paddleboarders out very quickly, even on what looks like a calm day. If you're heading out, make sure you check the wind direction, wear a leash, and carry a means of calling for help. Staying close to shore and choosing a lifeguarded beach can make all the difference when conditions change."
RNLI Paddleboard Safety Advice
The RNLI is reminding anyone planning to use a paddleboard at the beach to:
Always choose a lifeguarded beach and launch between the black and white chequered flags.
Check the weather forecast, wind direction and tide times before entering the water.
Always wear a leash.
Carry a means of calling for help on your person in case of an emergency.
Stay close to shore and avoid offshore wind conditions.
The incidents serve as a timely reminder of how quickly offshore winds can carry paddleboarders away from the beach, even when sea conditions appear calm from the shoreline. RNLI lifeguards are urging beachgoers to respect the conditions and seek advice from lifeguards before entering the water.
