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Pro surfer Arran Strong, 27, disappeared during a paddleboarding challenge off the coast of Portugal on Monday, prompting lifeboat crews and emergency teams to launch a frantic search

A British surfer has gone missing off the coast of Portugal, with his friend spotting his board drifting alone in the water.

Arran Strong, 27, disappeared in the Atlantic Ocean on Monday morning while taking part in a paddleboarding challenge about a mile offshore from Arrifana. Lifeboat crews, firefighters and other emergency services launched a major search after the alarm was raised shortly after 11.30am on Monday. Rescue teams resumed their search on Wednesday morning after pausing overnight.

Despite living with the rare Alpha-1 Antitrypsin disease. condition, Arran became known for tackling some of Europe's biggest waves. The professional surfer represented Great Britain at the 2024 and 2025 ISA World Surfing Games.

Photographer José Maria Pyrrait, who had been taking part in the 560-mile paddleboarding marathon along the Portuguese coast alongside him, shared a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram.

Mr Pyrrait wrote in Portuguese on Tuesday: "We stopped off Arrifana to drink water and take some pictures. We were there for a few minutes talking when we started again. I let him go ahead. Since my pace is faster, I always do that.

"When I stopped to wait for him I saw his board drifting about 100 metres away. I paddled as fast as I could to get there, diving repeatedly to look. I called my partner for help and the rescue started. We spent hours looking."

He added: "Arran was like a son to me. From the age of 10, he trained with me and spent weekends and holidays with me."

A Surfing England spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Arran Strong. Arran brought warmth and positivity to everyone he met and his loss will be felt deeply across the surfing community.

"A serious talent from an early age, Arran and his mum would travel from Portugal to compete in the UK and he went on to represent Team England and Great Britain on the world stage, most recently at the 2025 ISA World Surfing Games.

"Beyond his achievements in the water, Arran will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the positivity he brought to those around him. He was respected and admired throughout the surfing community and will be greatly missed.

"Our heartfelt condolences are with Arran's family, friends and everyone whose lives he touched during this incredibly difficult time."

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