The rescue of a paddleboarder in Manilva has reopened the debate over the cost of maritime operations, which can reach up to €16,570 per hour for a helicopter.
The spectacular rescue of a paddleboarder in the early hours of this Thursday off the coast of Manilva has once again put the spotlight on the high financial cost of emergency operations at sea, which many users are unaware of.
The woman, dragged out to sea by the currents and located three miles from the port of La Duquesa, was rescued by the Helimer 220 helicopter and the Salvamar Gadir vessel, mobilised by the Salvamento Marítimo Coordination Centre in Málaga. The intervention was decisive in saving her life, but it was also a large-scale and costly operation for what could be classed as recklessness stemming from a lack of knowledge of navigation.
How much does a rescue like this cost?
Under current regulations, the resources mobilised by Salvamento Marítimo have rates set by ministerial order. The Helimer 220 helicopter, used in the rescue, costs €16,570 per flight hour, and vessels such as the Salvamar Gadir, although cheaper, also represent a significant expense. Medium-sized patrol boats reach rates of €1,120 per hour, and other smaller units cost around €400 per hour.
The total cost of an operation depends on the number of units used, the time from leaving port until returning, and the type of emergency. However, in cases like this one —where there is clear risk to life— the intervention is not charged to the individual. This is established by the Royal Decree regulating these services: if human lives are in danger, the rescue is free.
But that is not always the case
Many owners of pleasure boats are unaware that if their call for help is due to a breakdown with no risk to the crew, an oversight or a lack of planning, they will have to pay for the assistance. Towing a vessel under 20 metres in length, for example, is charged at €420 per hour. Cancelling a rescue that has already been activated also has a cost.
“Every summer, costly resources are mobilised for incidents that could have been avoided with a simple prior check or proper planning,” say Salvamento Marítimo.
Prevention, key to avoiding tragedies and bills
The agency reminds the public that many emergencies, especially those involving paddleboarding, jet skis or small boats, are due to a lack of knowledge of sea conditions and a lack of preparation. To reduce risks —and also avoid financial shocks— several key measures are recommended:
- Check the weather and sea state forecast before setting out.
- Always wear a life jacket and a leash (safety cord).
- Do not go out alone and tell someone you trust about your planned route.
- Carry communication equipment (mobile phone in a waterproof case or VHF radio).
- Check your equipment and plan your trip.
«Saving a life is priceless. But a breakdown with no risk is not.»
The paddleboarder’s rescue had a happy ending thanks to the swift action of the emergency teams. But it also serves as a reminder: at sea, recklessness can cost you your life… or thousands of euros.
