Charles Lopez, accustomed to paddle explorations off Gibraltar, was close to death on January 7.
As he watched a sunset with his friend Alex, a rock fell off the cliff, crashing just inches from his face.
The impact could have been fatal.
"I had just reached the last cave in the World Heritage Site of Gorham's Caves when a shadow passed before my eyes and a powerful explosion sounded beneath my feet," he explained.
"I'm the luckiest man in the world and I'm happy to still be able to breathe.
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Charles Lopez was not injured in the accident, unlike his board which broke in two.
His friend helped him away from the rock and then they were rescued by the crew of a boat which brought them back to shore.
The very impressive scene was captured with the camera that paddle enthusiasts often take with them on their sea trips.