Peel’s RNLI volunteers were called into action over the weekend after concerns were raised for a group of teenagers struggling with paddleboards in Peel Bay.
HM Coastguard requested assistance as strong south-southwesterly winds blew the group offshore.
Before the lifeboat crew could reach them, two of the teenagers made their way to the end of the Groyne in Peel Bay.
A second paddleboard was further north, and as the remaining pair attempted to climb rocks near the Old Baths, the lifeboat crew requested support from Peel Coastguard to bring them to safety.
Struggling
Mike Taylor, volunteer coxswain, said: “The strong offshore winds caught the youngsters unaware and it was clear they were struggling to paddle back to shore.
“At one point some of them were seen clinging to the mooring buoys out in the bay.”
He added: “Offshore winds can be deceptive, as the surface of the water can appear calm even with winds as strong as Force 4 or 5, as they were on Friday evening.
“With the help of Peel Coastguard Rescue Team, all four were safely returned to shore. It is a relief for all that this incident had a good outcome.”
The RNLI has urged paddleboarders to take precautions, including checking weather forecasts, wearing buoyancy aids, carrying a waterproof phone pouch, dressing appropriately for cold water, and informing others of their plans.
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