Happisburgh, England – An unresponsive kayaker was rescued by Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) volunteers on Saturday, July 5, after drifting over half a mile out to sea off the Norfolk coast.

The D-class inshore lifeboat was launched from Happisburgh Lifeboat Station at 12:25 p.m. Crews quickly located the kayak adrift, with the kayaker motionless onboard.

The casualty was carefully brought onto the lifeboat, where the crew began immediate assessment and casualty care.

An ambulance was requested, and the crew returned swiftly to shore. They were met by a coastguard team, who assisted in treating the kayaker until paramedics arrived.

Happisburgh RNLI Helm Chris Risby said: “I was very pleased that the casualty had done all the right things by wearing a personal floatation device and having means of calling for help.”

“They had also notified someone ashore of where they were, so that they could call for help.”

Maria, the kayaker rescued, later returned to thank the crew.

She said: “They were absolutely wonderful, I couldn’t have wished for anything better. I was well-prepared, had my lifejacket on but the wind turned, and everything culminated to a perfect storm. I would encourage everyone that no matter how calm it is, try thinking of the worst case scenario.”

Chris added: “If you are heading to the coast during the warm weather, choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.”

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