Four Nairn paddle boarders swept out to sea prompt major emergency response MIRO, Coastguard and RNLI but are rescued by fisherman at the scene
Four paddle boards from Nairn were rescued on Friday evening after it appears they got into difficulties after being swept out to sea, prompting a significant emergency response.
The alarm was raised by a local swimming instructor SeaSoul - Nairn who described what they saw: “Tonight [Friday] I witnessed paddleboarders struggling against the offshore wind and tide. It was scary to watch them drifting further away, powerless against the conditions, even though they were trying so hard.
“This was turning into something serious.
“To the untrained eye, conditions looked great today. The sun was shining, the sea was relatively flat, BUT the wind was offshore and the tide was going out rapidly. You CANNOT win in this situation.
“I called the Coastguard, along with another couple from Shropshire I was standing with. They responded quickly and with such calm professionalism. I’m so grateful they’re there when things go wrong.”
MIRO (Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation) said it was paged by HM Coastguard, whose helicopter also attended, alongside RNLI Invergordon at 17.43 and the team arrived by 18.10.
MIRO said in a post online: “At 1743hrs on Friday 26th September 2025, MIRO were paged by HM Coastguard following a report of 4 persons who appear to be swept out to sea on paddleboards from Nairn.
“Crew responded immediately and MIRO Rescue was launched, arriving at Nairn at 1810hrs where they found that the casualties had been assisted onto a local fisherman’s boat with their boards.
“An assessment of their condition was carried out by the crew who ensured they were warm and remained calm. Due to the tidal conditions at Nairn Harbour, the decision was made to convey them to Findhorn.
“Also in attendance was RNLI Invergordon and HM Coastguard Helicopter.
“On arrival at Findhorn the casualties were transferred into the care of the awaiting Coastguard Team members. MIRO Rescue was thereafter made ready for service by shore support.
“Another fast response by our volunteer crew at MIRO, RNLI Invergordon, Local Coastguard Teams and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter. We would like to thank the local fisherman for his response to this rescue.”
MIRO added: “We would like to remind members of the public to ensure that they are fully aware of the weather and sea conditions prior to carrying out activities on the water.”
While in another post Paddle Bliss Nairn like SeaSoul - Nairn sought to raise awareness of the precarious nature of tides and winds, saying: “A very frightening situation for all involved, I hope all are alright.
“It's so important to be aware of offshore winds, tides and how to keep safe when out paddleboarding. Always carry a means of communication on you. Personal safety first always.
“Check out this paddleboarding safety code. Thanks so much to our wonderful coastguard services and our awesome SeaSoul - Nairn for acting immediately to get help.”