Guernsey Coastguard coordinated the response to a kitesurfer reported to be in difficulty off Fort Le Marchant yesterday afternoon (12th February 2026).

At 12:50 p.m., Guernsey Coastguard was alerted by a member of the public who reported concern for a kitesurfer experiencing difficulty in the water.

The Coastguard immediately initiated a response, tasking the RNLI inshore lifeboat.

The Spirit of Cooperation, the station’s Class B inshore lifeboat, was launched on service at 1:14 p.m., arriving on scene at 1:29 p.m. Lifeboat crew quickly made contact with the casualty in the water and recovered him safely aboard.

Following assessment by the lifeboat crew, the exhausted individual did not require further medical treatment and was landed safely ashore. The lifeboat returned to station and was made ready for further service at 1:56 p.m.

Guernsey Coastguard would like to thank the member of the public for raising the alarm promptly. Early reporting enables a swift and effective response. Water users are reminded to carefully assess weather and sea conditions before entering the water and to ensure appropriate safety equipment is used at all times.

Kieran Higgs – Search Mission Coordinator said, “This was a positive outcome thanks to the quick actions of a vigilant member of the public and the professional response of the RNLI lifeboat crew. We would always encourage anyone who sees someone in difficulty at sea to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately.”