To not let 13 DS to go paddle boarding with his friends after school?

[Sparrow7]

DS wants to go to the beach (40 mins away) after school with a group of five other 13 year old boys, one of which is bringing a paddle board. The boys are sensible and all competent at swimming and paddle boarding. However, there will be no adults present, no lifeguards as they have finished for the summer and no life jackets will be worn.
My instinct is to say no but apparently all the other parents are fine with this. Even DH says ok as the sea will be calm later.

Please vote YABU if you would be ok with this.
Or YANBU if you would also say no.

I live near the sea and often see people paddle boarding/ surfing and without exception they wear surf suits, helmets and life vests. They do it groups, there is always at least one of them on the beach, watching in case one gets into difficulties. He/she then gets his/her turn.
My two grandkids aged 12 and 8 go paddle boarding but on a small lake, they love it but are always accompanied by their dad.
However, In the circumstances you’ve described, in the sea, you’re 40 minutes drive away, they won’t be wearing a life vest, don’t want an adult present I’d be talking it through with the other parents and the boys and setting some ground rules.
You don’t want to curtail their fun but the sea is unpredictable.

Sorry OP, I’ve just seen your update. I’m so glad your son has said he’s not going, sensible lad.

It's normal to wear a helmet when there is a risk of bashing your head on submerged rocks if you tumble. So in some places it's an important piece of safety kit. In others completely unnecessary

Great update and I learned so much from all the water safety tips shared.

No.

Well done to your DS 👏 👏👏