But it’s not without risk and we’re seeing a rise in the number of incidents involving people getting into trouble.
Make sure your paddleboarding experience is one you’ll remember for all the right reasons by taking some simple steps to stay safe:
- Always use a paddleboard with a leash
- Wear a personal flotation device and make sure you can move easily while wearing it
- One paddleboard per person! Don’t be tempted to share a board, particularly with children
- Take your mobile in a waterproof case. We’re always at the end of the phone ready to help if you run into trouble #999Coastguard
- Paddleboarding with a friend is more fun and they can help if you’re struggling. If you are going alone, tell someone where you’ll be and when you expect to return
- Check the weather forecast and tide times before you leave. Paddleboards are very susceptible to the wind and are easily blown offshore
- Give your board a once-over before you leave to ensure it’s sea safe