Surviving the Downwind: A Paddler’s Story

1 lives saved

Ocean

Water sports

Weather

Wind

What happened?

I’m a regular downwind surfski paddler, out in challenging ocean conditions 3-4 times a week. The gear I use is compact, well-designed, and gives me the confidence to focus on my sport, not my safety. But yesterday, that confidence was truly put to the test.

While paddling an Epic V12 in strong winds, I experienced a partial rudder failure. The ski, notoriously hard to remount, became impossible to orient downwind without repeatedly capsizing. Alone in heavy whitecaps a mile offshore, I struggled to stay with my ski while burning through energy. Fortunately, friends surfing nearby saw me and came over, but even with their help, we couldn’t get the ski stable enough to remount or paddle.

As time passed and conditions worsened, my energy dropped. Still, I stayed focused on breathing and staying calm, knowing panic would only make things harder. My friends stayed with me in the rough seas and called Maui Ocean Safety. But with poor visibility and big conditions, rescue was difficult.

When the lifeguards couldn’t locate us, I activated my Ocean Signal PLB. That moment gave me real reassurance — I knew the Coast Guard would come if needed. Eventually, OC paddlers on scene helped guide lifeguards to our position. Thanks to the incredible efforts of Otto, Rory, Matt, and the entire Maui Ocean Safety team, I was brought safely to shore. They even recovered my gear in those brutal conditions — above and beyond.

I’m deeply grateful for my fellow paddlers, the lifeguards, and the Coast Guard who were standing by. This was a humbling reminder of the ocean’s power, the importance of preparation, and the strength of the paddling community.

Thank you all — you saved my life.

Words of wisdom

Always have your safety equipment, you never know when you’ll need it To save your life.

Thank you note to the Ocean Signal team

Thanks guys, I’m in extreme ocean conditions 3-4x a week and your device is compact, well made and designed, and always gives me the confidence that I can focus on my sport rather than worry about my safety, and yesterday it saved my ass!