The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Santa spread Christmas cheer on Saturday at a local beach when he slipped and fell face-first into the ocean, causing co-workers and a crowd of bystanders to break into fits of laughter.
A video clip of the hilarious incident was shared on social media by the NSRI with the caption, “Oops..”. It shows the Santa, kitted out in costume and beard, trying to hop out of the NSRI boat as it approaches the shore of Bakoven beach.
Santa is seen bellowing, “Ho Ho Ho!” just before becoming the butt of the day’s joke.
While attempting to step off the boat, Santa comically topples into the ocean waters, much to the amusement of NSRI staff and beach-goers.
Meanwhile, the boat skipper can be heard bursting into chuckles, too.
Alternative footage captured a bystander and also posted to social media gives a view of the fall as seen from the beach. Children can be heard giggling as their fallen hero rises out of the water.
“Santa, you’re such a good sport,” the post reads.
Other locals also took to social media to share their own footage of the hilarious moment.
Thankfully, Father Christmas was not hurt and raised his arms in the air to signal he was okay while a member of the NSRI team attended to him.
Picture: Instagram