No Longer a Pool, SUPs Not Toys: Greeks and Croats 'Tired' of Rescuing Tourists Swept Away by Windstorms

Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs) have become a dangerous hazard on Croatian and Greek coastlines this summer, with maritime authorities reporting a surge in rescue operations for tourists swept out to sea by strong winds. Since the beginning of July, both Croatian and Greek coast guards have been busy rescuing foreign visitors who found themselves in peril while using SUPs.

The most dramatic incidents have occurred along the Croatian coast. In Makarska, rescuers braved nighttime conditions with two-meter waves and strong winds to save two people and a dog from a SUP. A similar dramatic rescue near Senj involved a Czech family of four, including two young children, who were carried towards Krk island by the 'bura' wind. The parents swam after their children but became exhausted and endangered themselves, requiring rescue by the local coast guard and police.

Greek authorities are also highlighting the risks, noting that regulations for SUP use are often ignored. Incidents on islands like Lefkada and Halkidiki have seen rescuers save Bulgarian tourists and others who were unable to return to shore due to strong winds and currents. In one case on Lefkada, individuals were stranded between Agios Nikitas and Kathisma beaches.

Croatian authorities have issued stern warnings, emphasizing that SUP boards, mattresses, and similar inflatable items act like sails in strong winds. They urge the public to monitor weather forecasts and 'bura' warnings before venturing out, as the wind can quickly carry light equipment far from shore. Fines for maritime violations in Croatia can range from 400 to 6,000 euros, with lighter penalties often given for first-time offenses. Last year, a Polish man was fined 400 euros for taking a SUP with his child out to sea despite strong winds.

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The bura blows from land towards the sea. This means the sea may appear calm near the shore, but as soon as you move a little further away, the wind pushes you into the open sea. Popular SUP boards, boats, and inflatable mattresses are extremely light and act like sails in the wind. The wind carries them far away in a matter of seconds at a speed a person cannot match by swimming. Before you rent equipment or go into the water with children, check local warnings and weather forecasts for the day. Wind shifts in the Adriatic happen suddenly and can be fatal.