Fancy reading about the 56 day trip?
Read below!
Day 1
On the water at 06.30.
Pretty lumpy to start with Duncansby Head tide race was quite lively, so was Noss Head as well as some interesting conditions along the way. At least it was a tail wind!
Saw my first puffins... ever! The scenery was spectacular and I was joined by seals too. The whole morning was full of amazing sights - i was awestruck at the beauty of this coastline.
Apparently there was a pod of dolphins behind me near Duncansby Stacks but I missed them.
Brunch at Sinclair Bay, picked up some plastics!
Struggled in Wick Harbour to find a landing spot but got there eventually with help from my Day 1 Supporters, finishing the day in time for lunch!
6 hours of paddling, the perfect way to start this challenge. Back on the water at 8am tomorrow!
Day 2.
What a change. Whereas Day 1 gave me a tail wind, Day 2 started with barely a puff but changed to a slight head wind.
Late on the water due to tide being out at Wick and no water to paddle on, I ended up paddling against the tide for the last hour, determined to do at least 25 miles (26 in the end!) It was a bit of a slog but the rest of the day more than made up for it.
Came across an empty packet of crisps floating upon the water... it's now in a bin and away from the environment.
Dolphins, puffins and seals. Hidden coves and caves. My amazement at this phenomenal coastline continues. 3 dolphins swam alongside me for a few minutes too.
Day 3 is another 25 miler to Golspie.
Day 3.
The tide was out which meant a short carry across the shallow river entrance and I was paddling away from Berriedale before 8am.
The silky smooth sea was glorious and I felt guilty disturbing it but enjoyed the company of thousands of seabirds again. A quick snack at Helmsdale an hour and a half later before bumping into a dozen seals playing around some rocks.
Cracked on and landed on a beach a couple of hours later for some lunch, did a beach clean before continuing to Golspie. Made great time with a tailwind and a good tide to arrive at 2pm, a distance of about 25 miles.
Pulled a piece of sack put of the sea, tiny bits of it were ready to fall off so that was good timing!
Just under 45 miles to Inverness and the Caledonian Canal, the first of the inland waterways, should be there on Sunday.
Thanks to Gerald and the Golspie Kayaking Club for use of their storage yard!
Day 4.
You may have already seen the misty morning videos - today wouldn't have been possible without a compass and some pre-planning!
At 4 miles offshore I had no view of any landmass due to the mist. No sun, no landmarks - nothing. I had already worked out a bearing to follow but, not knowing how the tides work within Dornoch Firth, I was unsure if I was in any currents. There was a subtle wind and something was making my kayak want to turn, making following the bearing all the more tricky. In fact, during a moment of daydreaming I suddenly realised I was heading in a totally different direction. Imagine walking across a field but you can only see your feet.
Deciding to slightly alter my bearing so I was heading more southerly, I made it to Tarbat Ness in 2.5 hours, seeing the lighthouse magically appear from the mist. Rounding the headland, I continued on to Balintore, picking out a few bits of plastic from the water along the way, and was back on dry land, in the sun, before Midday, just shy of 21 miles.
Now surely today is worthy of your donations! (Link in bio).
A 23 mile day tomorrow and I'll be at the Caledonian Canal and the start of my first inland waterway. Bee is joining me on the canal but she isn't arriving until later Monday which means I get a day off before we paddle on Tuesday.
Day 5 started in the mist again, but at least this time I could hug the coastline. Found quite a few bits of plastic, wrappers etc floating around and came across a fish crate bobbing about near some rocks.
With it resting precariously on my deck bag, I hunted for somewhere to land so I could secure it properly. This meant venturing into Cromarty Forth as I didn't fancy crossing a misty shipping lane with an insecure load!
Anyway, sorted that and legged it to the other side, nipping in front of a ship (he had spotted me so all was safe!). Rounded the Sutors Stacks and met kayaker heading the other way. It was nice to finally meet somebody else on the water!
Passed my 100 mile landmark near Red Nose, continued through the mist to Rosemarkie Bay, rounded Chanonry point and entered the faster tide flows of Moray Firth. Took a compass bearing again thanks to the mist and nearly had a heart attack when I saw a large cargo ship pointing at me in the gloom! I paddled like crazy to get out of its way, pondering on how I didn't hear it before I realised it was at anchor. Phew!
Playing the safe game, I stayed out of the shipping channel, dealt with the northerly wind trying to turn my kayak to the right, surfed some waves along the firth, met a group of kayakers going against the tide and wind and finally cruised under Kessock Bridge to finish at the sea lock for the Caledonian Canal. What a day!
Now at a campsite at Bunchrew. I get a day off tomorrow whilst awaiting my friend Bee, which is fine with me after completing 120 miles in 5 days!
Day 6 rest day.
Day 7. start of the Caledonian Canal and signs of civilisation as we collected all the litter in pic 1 before we got to Loch Ness.
I saved a bee! Not my friend Bee but a bumble bee I saw floating on the water. Drying out on my deck bag, I watched as the little fella uses its legs to speed up the drying process before flying off to continue its little mission to keep out planet going.
Lock portages were fun... especially lifting my fully loaded sea kayak and Bee's paddle board out the water. Thank you to Derek for all his amazing help and advice!
A total of just over 12 miles before we found our camping spot, pretty good going for a heavy paddle board!
Day 8.
Starting the day with a tail wind, we made good time heading across the loch to Urquhart Castle, hoping to visit their coffee shop but we were denied permission to land on the beach. Their loss as we headed back to the south side and stopped at Foyer, surfing the waves kicked up by the tailwind. A quick stroll up the steep woodland trail to find a shop and a Loch Ness sticker, a spot of lunch by the river and we were back on the water to be greeted with a headwind. No problem for a sea kayak but a definite problem for a paddle board.
The final slog found us a camping spot a few miles shy of Fort Augustus.
Day 9 was a day of up and downs.
We completed Loch Ness, portaged the lock flights at Fort Augustus - stopping for an ice cream on the way through. Some more canal paddling, avoiding a super yacht and the HMS Puncher and HMS Trumpeter, who were training sea cadets.
Out onto the beautiful Loch Oich, the highest point on the Caledonian Canal. Halfway across the wind changed and poor Bee was back to kneeling on her board to paddle through. We made it to the end of the loch but had to call it a day as the wind was so strong.
16 ish miles to go to the end of the Caledonian Canal now. An early start (ish) this morning to catch a tail wind should help, then it's a goodbye to Bee and back on the sea for me to continue to Land's End!
P.S. kayak is taking a battering from all the lock portages...
Day 10 and 11
Caledonian Canal done!
4 and a bit days with Bee. With me in the sea kayak and Bee on her paddle board, headwinds for last couple of days really had an impact on the paddle board but we made the right calls and finished this morning.
Paddling until gone 11pm last night to make the most of the calmer and less windy conditions rewarded us, eventually, with a mirror smooth Loch Lochy and setting up camp in the dark, fighting off the mozzies!
On the water about 8ish this morning and we were done by lunchtime, with a headwind. Again!
Bee has now packed up and gone, I'm sitting out the afternoon doing final checks before I'm back on the sea tomorrow first thing.
I have no support now for a good week or so updates will be every few days to save my phone battery - the tracker will of course be running as usual!
Get those donations in people - these charities need your help!
Cheers!
P.S. I can highly recommend this trip... if you get a chance to walk, paddle or boat the Caledonian Canal, do it! It's beautiful.
Day 12.
Left Corpach at 05.30 on the outgoing tide. Paddling along still felt like I was the canal, the narrow straight feeling like a loch.
It narrows at the end, speeding the water up like a venturi. The Corran Narrows are well known for the fast flows and eddy currents and I can vouch for their existence!
Exiting the narrows into Loch Linnhe, I made a beeline for a beach to have some food, finding the remains of a balloon on the beach before cracking on to make the most of the tide flow. I'd been fighting a headwind all morning but it was now starting to crank up a few gears. By the time I was passing through the Sound of Shuna, the tide had turned against me too. After an about an hour I'd had enough and pulled in to Port Appin for a breather. The tide wouldn't be in my favour again until about 15.00 so I rested on the beach and chatted to anyone who'd listen.
By 14.30 I was itching to go and headed off again. The tide was still against me but I knew it would come to me. I spotted a large rock, or a tiny island, with loads of seals sunbathing but I was too far away to worry them. Beautiful to see though.
The wind speed increased and with it, the waves increased too - every so often launching the kayak into the trough of the next wave. An hour and a half of this and I stopped again for a while, knowing I had just a few miles to go to Ganavan Bay.
Crossing the bay was hard work as I was now on a bearing that took me side on to the waves but I eventually crossed safely, landing on the sheltered beach about 6pm with another 32 miles ticked off.
Within an hour the wind abated and the sea was flat!
Spent the evening in the tent hiding from the mozzies.
Day 13.
Leaving Ganavan at 06.30, I knew i had already missed an hour of tide flow. I wanted that extra hour of sleep instead!
I quickly paddled past Oban, fishing a plastic bottle out the water, and pushed pretty hard, wanting to make good use of a mirror smooth sea and the current. Compared to Day 12 this was a piece of cake!
It didn't seem long before I was entering the Sound of Seil and paddling under Clachan Bridge, a beautiful old arch bridge that must be the smallest sea bridge in the world! The tide was quite low by the point, even by kayak standards as I scraped my paddle on the sea bed in places. Fortunately the waterway opened out and deepened again and exited the Sound as I was losing the tide flow, opting to stop on a small island. After picking up some old rope I decided not to stay due to the many seabirds I was upsetting, instead I made my way across the bay to Shuna Island to eat and wait 6 hours for the right tide. Still - it gave me chance to dry my kit, clean sand out of my tent and start getting some sun on my bone white legs!
Hoping to get somewhere near Crinan Canal on the afternoon tide, about a 3 hour paddle.
Which I did! 12 miles in 2.5 hours. Found the Argyle Trail landing slip but couldn't find anywhere to camp. I popped the kayak into the canal and carried on paddling, picking up some more plastic from the water. In just a few miles I got out at a set of locks, trolleyed the kayak up the hill and, by pure fluke, bumped into the lock keeper. He said I was ok to camp near the loos and he unlocked the shower for me too. Thanks Russ you legend!
Another 30 odd miles done and I reckon I've done over 240 miles so far for @keepbritaintidy #millionmilemission.
Day 14 was a video blog. Headwinds all day. Tough going, pulled into Tarbert to consider pulling out for the day. Nowhere to camp so made new plan to do 9 miles to Skipness Point. That headland was rough but I somehow got through and landed on a remote beach, trying to figure out when it might be safe to cross to Arran
Day 15
That was a tough crossing... although it was very very choppy and some of the waves were a good metre or so, most of it was head on so easily manageable. The wind wasn't too bad but when it gusted, it almost stopped me in my tracks, usually in time with a big wave, the kayak shuddering as it landed off the back of the wave.
I have to point out the safety side here. I didn't take this crossing lightly, I planned it at slack water, I wore my rough weather clothing (dressed for the water temperature not the air), lot's of people knew my plan and my expected time frame, and it was a good option foe the coming weather forecast. At no point was I feeling out of my depth (pun) but this wouldn't be a crossing for inexperienced - so don't copy me unless you know what you're doing!
As I approached Arran, the waves died down but the wind speed increased, probably because I was entering a valley and Lochranza! I barely made headway until I crossed the entrance and made it to the sheltered side.
The longest 4 miles I think I've ever paddled but after trolleying the kayak half a mile up the road to a campsite, I've set up the tent, done my laundry (kayak kit was getting wiffy!), had a shower (I was getting wiffy) and am now sat in their day room with their wiffy (I mean Wi-Fi) access and USB wall sockets charging up everything I have.
It was worth pushing across to Arran because the wind forecast means I'll be having a day or 2 off so at least I have access to amenities rather than being on my own in a tent on a beach... even Roy likes creature comforts at times!
Oh... and this I feel is really important... I also have chocolate.
Also got a round of applause from a passing solo yachtsman when I was about a mile from Arran.
Day 16.
A day off due to high winds which was probably good for me too. I'd covered a fair amount of miles over the last few days.
My camping neighbours Alfred and Gemma kindly gave me a lift to a shop so I could top up on supplies, I especially needed a new dry bag as the one with the tracker was leaking and I think the water was affecting the tracker performance (I had noticed a few tracks missing on the map).
Treated myself to sime proper food from a local sandwich bar based in an old fire station (The Sandwich Station). They kindly donated to the cause, plus a gentleman called John gave me a little cash 'to buy a beer or whatever keeps you going'.
Met a teacher called Fraser from my old school in Totnes - it really is a small world!
The evening included an invitation to a BBQ with Alfred and Gemma - staying at this campsite was definitely the right decision, although we may have drunk quite a lot.
Lochranza Campsite... eco friendly, good vibes and great staff like Karen who comes from Devon too. Plus a visitor who was no doubt scrounging for food.
A good rest in preparation for Day 17. I'm hoping to paddle the 26 miles to the other end of the island to set me up for the crossing back to the mainland.
Day 17.
No rush today - I wouldn't be able to get in the water until after noon and the tide flow wouldn't help me until after 1pm.
Strong westerly winds forecast which will help for the first part and then I'll be sheltered for most of the trip. I'm expecting to feel the effects as I cross a couple of biggish bays however.
My plan today was to paddle the length of Arran, camp on a beach and then set off on Day 18 to paddle back to the mainland.
Getting out of Loch Ranza was a little slow due to the wind but ince I turned right at the entrance, the wind was at my back and I raced along the coast. The wind pushed me for the first 1.5 hours or so as I was heading south east, surfing an occasional wave along the way, before the island shape meant I was heading southerly, the water calmed and I had no wind assist.
The tide was still in my favour though and it was all straight forward until Brodick Bay when the westerly wind hit me side on as it whizzed across the water. Decided to head slightly into the wind to avoid the waves hitting me side on too, I soon noticed the CalMac ferry racing in from my left. Aware of a hefty bow wave from it, I watched with curiosity as it steamed flat out into the bay, seemingly unable to stop!
It did of course, with a beautiful manoeuvre involving a 180 turn and gently mooring at the dock. A few minutes later his wash hit me and made for a pretty exciting ride - especially as his wash appeared to be bouncing around the bay for some time, mixing with the windy waves too!
It was more awkward than dangerous but I soon exited the bay, initially considering to stop for a break now I'd been paddling for some time. I had a few snacks, checked the map for my remaining mileage and decided to just crack on and make the most of the decent tide flow.
I passed Holy Island, which has a Tibetan Retreat on it, saw loads of seals and before I knew it I was at the other end of the island, looking for a decent camping spot.
I found a decent camping spot when I noticed a campsite on the map, spotted a way on to the beach avoiding rocks and finished the day with a prime spot for my tent!
26 miles done in 6 hours... that felt good. Now I'm just watching the forecast to make sure I can safely paddle the 13.5 miles back to the mainland.
Day 18.
Back to the mainland!
There was quite a strong westerly blowing, which should help push me across but I was a little concerned about the potential waves, especially as the wind was slightly off to one side. The concern was the kayak getting turned when any waves hit the stern. Careful checks of the wind forecast and tide flows led me to start around 13.00. Being keen I was on the water at 12.45! I wouldn't get any tidal assistance as I was going across the tide, so I tried to plan it so slack water was when I was roughly halfway across, to minimise any impact on my compass bearing.
It started off fairly choppy but my wave concerns were generally unfounded. There was one issue however - shipping! Within 30 minutes I found myself bobbing on the waves as I waited for the first one to pass, a large workboat. The second was a while later but this one was a container ship. Fortunately, this area is a marine protection zone and ships have to slow - I had plenty of time to clear the ship without any worries.
By this time I was well over halfway across, the wind had eased and the waves were now just a soft chop. Every 15 minutes I ticked off another mile until I reached the other side and pulled up on a beach, covering 14 miles in under 3.5 hours.
A bit of nosh and I was back on the water, knowing I was running out of tide, trying to rack up as many miles as possible enjoying a sea as calm as a mirror, and plucking a piece of polystyrene from it. By 19.00 I started to search for a camp spot, eventually settling for the beach at Lendalfoot, landing among a ton of seaweed which appeared to cover the kayak!
More food, turned in for the night, slept like a log to the sound of the waves lapping the beach... Another 25 miles completed.
Day 19.
Woke up about 6am wondering what the day would bring. First thing I did was check the weather and the tides and my heart sank when I saw fairly high southerly winds forecast for the afternoon, which happen to coincide when the tide would be in my favour. The result is likely to mean 1. A hard slog against the wind and 2. Wind-against-tide waves, adding to the slog. I can handle it but it becomes very tiring and very tiresome.
Pondering on the possibilities and aware that the high winds could be around for a few days, I packed down camp and was back in the kayak about 07.45 heading for Ballantrae, a small town with a shop and places to eat (packet food is ok but a decent meal wins every time).
Just 90 minutes later I pulled up on the beach, got changed into my civvies and found a café and had my first proper meal for a while and my first proper Scottish Brekkie. Tasty!
Returning to the kayak, doing social media updates, watching the sea conditions - I've made the safety call to stay here until the wind drops. No point in knackering myself out just for a few miles gained especially as I have to round Corsewall Point which is known to have a nasty tide race in certain conditions.
What is quite frustrating is the sea looks relatively calm - until one spots all the 'white horses' and watches a small boat go past...
Now to make a plan for the rest of the day... there is a pub!
Sidenote. Ballantrae public loos have music playing... not sure I'm comfortable with my daily routine being joined by Rod Stewart...
Day 20. Read a book.
Day 21.
Left Ballentrae at 04.25 with the sun rising behind me. I knew I had a 4 hour window of fairly low winds and tidal assistance so pushed hard to get to Portpatrick, 22 miles away. I would usually expect that distance to take up to 6 hours with a beach stop, 5 and a half without but I pulled into the harbour at about 09.20!
The tide flows worked well and, apart from a few rough bits on the headlands, it was generally ok although as the wind speed increased, the waves started to getting bigger too. Not really a problem as it was all head on but the waves were close together, which caused the kayak to 'porpoise' a lot. Very tiring!
Crossing the entrance to Loch Ryan (a ferry port) was fun as I waited for two ferries to pass, which gave me a chance to pick out loads of wrappers from the water. Funny how the litter increases when near a busy town
Beach cleaned Portpatrick beach on arrival... had a good feed at a local pub... wind now howling!
Dragged the kayak up a mile long hill to a campsite. One wheel has cracked on the trolley so I'll epoxy repair that today.
Trevor and Gillian, my camping neighbours, kindly paid for my camping!
Day 22.
Today included a bit of food shopping, repairing the kayak trolley, washing my stinky kayaking clothing and eating lots of carbs.
I also spent ages planning Day 23. The tide flows here can be very fast indeed plus, when I get to the Mull of Galloway, there will be a bit of a nasty tide race. If you are unsure as to what a tide race is, it's the name given to an area prone to fast moving water, eddies or standing waves. This happens because of a constriction - the area could narrow or have an underwater obstruction causing the water flow to speed up. The faster the tide flow, the worse it generally is and it can move around depending on the tide and wind too. Portland Bill is one of the worst in the UK but fortunately the Mull of Galloway doesn't even make it into the top 10!
Every tide race is different. At first glance it could look flat calm but a closer look may show some very 'confused' water, or it could look really rough and bumpy. Some can be avoided by giving them a wide berth (sometimes a few miles), others one can hug the coastline.
We can minimise the effects to a certain degree. Slack water (the turn of the tide) is when the water is at its slowest and the race is at its most benign, although weather will have an effect too. Fortunately tomorrow, the wind and tide are in the same direction which will help calm it down but I have to be honest - I'm not expecting an easy ride. I spoke with the Portpatrick RNLI today for some local knowledge, which has helped ease my concerns a little. This is on par with Duncansby Head, the tide race I had to do on the first day, and I got through that one but I'm not being complacent.
I have checked, double checked and triple checked the tides, tide flows, weather and garnered all the information I can get and it all points to getting around that headland between 15.45 and 16.00 tomorrow. Slack water doesn't last very long here so military level precision with timing is vital. I'll be leaving Portpatrick at 10.30, enjoying the fast tide south for the 21 and a bit miles to just past the Mull.
Wish me luck and feel free to check my plan on my behalf!
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Trevor and Gillian, my campsite neighbours, for their help, advice, great conversation and their generous donation to the cause. You are both amazing and I can't thank you enough!
Day 23
Leaving Portpatrick a few minutes before 10.30, I headed south (ish) with the wind behind me. The sea was calm and in a shade over 2 hours I arrived at Port Logan for lunch, 11 miles down the coast. The tide flows were definitely in my favour!
Knowing I only had 10 miles left, I had an epiphany about the tidal streams and tide times - I hadn't allowed for British Summer Time! A quick check confirmed this, which meant I had an extra hour for lunch.
Me being me I got impatient and left 30 minutes early, knowing I could make my way slowly and enjoy the scenery. If you've read a previous post about today, you'll be aware of the Mull of Galloway (MOG) tide race I'd been pondering about. Well, the sea around every headland I passed was affected by the fast moving tide flow. Some were a little bumpy, some were lumpy and some were just really fast. Most had eddies and they had me wondering what I was going to experience at MOG.
On the approach to MOG there appeared to be a lull in the conditions. The wind had dropped and the sea, whilst already fairly calm, flattened even more. Was this the calm before the storm?
As it happened, no. The plan worked, I nipped around the Mull and it was barely choppy. After all the lead up it was actually a little boring, although a quick chat with some fisherman along the way brightened things up.
Deciding to make it to Drummore for the night, I got my head down and, as I was now heading north, fought the headwind that had been helping until this point. I also had the tide against me... sigh.
Pulling on to to a beach near a boat storage area, I asked the owner if it was ok to camp and he introduced himself (David) and told me it was fine and if I go to his pub (The Clashwhannon) just up the road, he would feed me too! So a massive thank you to David and his wee boy Alba, Jason for helping carry the kayak, Margaret and Louise for looking after me in the Clashwhannon and the chef, who's name I didn't get.
Oh... they also have a caravan site so check out their website and have a holiday there!
https://clashwhannon.co.uk/
Day 24.
Not sure about today. After the highs of yesterday it kind of fell a bit flat today. It was a strange day.
It started well, with young Alba helping me out with the kayak and David on hand to help carry it.
The plan was to cross from Drummore to Port William (PW) a distance of just over 13 miles, have a break and assess the conditions for the rest of the day. As I'd be crossing the Luce Bay tide flow, the wind was my only concern.
Checking 2 different forecasts and coming up with similar results, I knew I would start with fairly high north westerly winds but finish with in much calmer conditions, the forecasts suggesting the last 2 thirds having less wind. I reckoned on a 3.5 hour crossing after getting some information from locals David and Jason too.
Setting of about 12.30, I initially aimed slightly left of PW to allow for the wind pushing me to the south. After about 1.5 hours (6 miles ish) I tried to aim back to PW but the wind kept 'weather cocking' me in a more northerly direction. The wind never relaxed the entire crossing, if anything it increased and I know better than to fight the powers of nature!
Staying on nature's intended heading, I reached the other side and finally had some respite in the shallower water. 3 hours of mainly paddling on my left side, I had a banana and worked out I was nearly 2 miles away from PW. Definitely my worst ever attempt at an accurate crossing but after 15 miles of paddling, I made PW in 3.5 hours as planned.
On my approach to the harbour, maybe quarter of a mile away, a Coastguard helicopter passed overhead, circled me and hovered above, a crew member leaning out the side door using hand signals to check I was OK. I gave a thumbs up, took a photo, he flew off and I continued. As I arrived at the harbour a couple of guys, one in a drysuit holding a radio, asked if I was ok. Again I answered yes. My first thought was 'The tracker has failed, it looks like I'm stuck in the middle of Luce Bay and someone called for help'.
It transpired that somebody back in Drummore had contacted the Coastguard believing I was 'having difficulties'. The lifeboat and helicopter had been launched. My initial thinking was one of guilt. What if somebody had genuinely needed these guys and there they were looking for me, a kayaker NOT in distress.
Alec, the Port William Inshore Rescue crew member who saw me in, could see I was well kitted out. I explained what I was doing, mentioned that people knew my plan, pointed out the tracker etc. They could see I had it all in hand and they were just responding to a call from a concerned member of the public and the main thing was this end result - I wasn't in need of assistance.
Thank you to that member of public. If I was in trouble, your reactions could have made a difference. That's what really counts here.
The plus side to all this is the cafe above the lifeboat station. It helps fund their rescues and even though Helen and the team wouldn't take payment for feeding me, I still slipped some notes in their pot and bought a keyring as a momento.
Like I said - it was a strange day.
Note: Thank you to all rescue volunteers around the world. You give up your time to helps those in distress without hesitation. You are heroes in the true sense of the word and I hope I never need you!
Day 25.
Waking up to a view of a flat sea was the perfect start to the day. Checking the tides, currents and wind forecast, I worked out the best time to leave Port William would be about 13.30.
The wind forecast showed a slight increase in speed and gusts so I made 3 plans for the day.
1. Paddle to the Isle of Whithorn where one can camp in the pub car park. Distance of 12.5 miles.
2. Paddle to Garlieston, camping should possible near the seafront. Distance of 20 miles including stopping for a break at Isle of Whithorn.
3. Paddle just past the Isle and then cross Wigtown Bay to Brighouse Bay, a distance of 25 miles.
Number 3 was being hopeful about the wind and was honestly unlikely.
Number 2 was my prefered option and would mean a shorter crossing of Wigtown Bay tomorrow.
Number 1 was what I ended up with as my left shoulder started aching rounding Burrow Head, which was fairly choppy. Yesterday's crossing had meant a lot of paddling on the left side because of the wind, today was the day to feel the effects of it. No point in making it worse and I'll see how it feels tomorrow after some more rest.
On arrival at the Isle of Whithorn I got chatting to Kerr, part of the local Coastguard, and family (they kindly donated) about safety stuff and plastic before they went rowing in their recently rebuilt gig boat. Had a natter with Dave, a local resident and his wife (also donated!). It would appear yesterday's exploits have made me a minor celebrity
The%2
Day 1
On the water at 06.30.
Pretty lumpy to start with Duncansby Head tide race was quite lively, so was Noss Head as well as some interesting conditions along the way. At least it was a tail wind!
Saw my first puffins... ever! The scenery was spectacular and I was joined by seals too. The whole morning was full of amazing sights - i was awestruck at the beauty of this coastline.
Apparently there was a pod of dolphins behind me near Duncansby Stacks but I missed them.
Brunch at Sinclair Bay, picked up some plastics!
Struggled in Wick Harbour to find a landing spot but got there eventually with help from my Day 1 Supporters, finishing the day in time for lunch!
6 hours of paddling, the perfect way to start this challenge. Back on the water at 8am tomorrow!
Day 2.
What a change. Whereas Day 1 gave me a tail wind, Day 2 started with barely a puff but changed to a slight head wind.
Late on the water due to tide being out at Wick and no water to paddle on, I ended up paddling against the tide for the last hour, determined to do at least 25 miles (26 in the end!) It was a bit of a slog but the rest of the day more than made up for it.
Came across an empty packet of crisps floating upon the water... it's now in a bin and away from the environment.
Dolphins, puffins and seals. Hidden coves and caves. My amazement at this phenomenal coastline continues. 3 dolphins swam alongside me for a few minutes too.
Day 3 is another 25 miler to Golspie.
Day 3.
The tide was out which meant a short carry across the shallow river entrance and I was paddling away from Berriedale before 8am.
The silky smooth sea was glorious and I felt guilty disturbing it but enjoyed the company of thousands of seabirds again. A quick snack at Helmsdale an hour and a half later before bumping into a dozen seals playing around some rocks.
Cracked on and landed on a beach a couple of hours later for some lunch, did a beach clean before continuing to Golspie. Made great time with a tailwind and a good tide to arrive at 2pm, a distance of about 25 miles.
Pulled a piece of sack put of the sea, tiny bits of it were ready to fall off so that was good timing!
Just under 45 miles to Inverness and the Caledonian Canal, the first of the inland waterways, should be there on Sunday.
Thanks to Gerald and the Golspie Kayaking Club for use of their storage yard!
Day 4.
You may have already seen the misty morning videos - today wouldn't have been possible without a compass and some pre-planning!
At 4 miles offshore I had no view of any landmass due to the mist. No sun, no landmarks - nothing. I had already worked out a bearing to follow but, not knowing how the tides work within Dornoch Firth, I was unsure if I was in any currents. There was a subtle wind and something was making my kayak want to turn, making following the bearing all the more tricky. In fact, during a moment of daydreaming I suddenly realised I was heading in a totally different direction. Imagine walking across a field but you can only see your feet.
Deciding to slightly alter my bearing so I was heading more southerly, I made it to Tarbat Ness in 2.5 hours, seeing the lighthouse magically appear from the mist. Rounding the headland, I continued on to Balintore, picking out a few bits of plastic from the water along the way, and was back on dry land, in the sun, before Midday, just shy of 21 miles.
Now surely today is worthy of your donations! (Link in bio).
A 23 mile day tomorrow and I'll be at the Caledonian Canal and the start of my first inland waterway. Bee is joining me on the canal but she isn't arriving until later Monday which means I get a day off before we paddle on Tuesday.
Day 5 started in the mist again, but at least this time I could hug the coastline. Found quite a few bits of plastic, wrappers etc floating around and came across a fish crate bobbing about near some rocks.
With it resting precariously on my deck bag, I hunted for somewhere to land so I could secure it properly. This meant venturing into Cromarty Forth as I didn't fancy crossing a misty shipping lane with an insecure load!
Anyway, sorted that and legged it to the other side, nipping in front of a ship (he had spotted me so all was safe!). Rounded the Sutors Stacks and met kayaker heading the other way. It was nice to finally meet somebody else on the water!
Passed my 100 mile landmark near Red Nose, continued through the mist to Rosemarkie Bay, rounded Chanonry point and entered the faster tide flows of Moray Firth. Took a compass bearing again thanks to the mist and nearly had a heart attack when I saw a large cargo ship pointing at me in the gloom! I paddled like crazy to get out of its way, pondering on how I didn't hear it before I realised it was at anchor. Phew!
Playing the safe game, I stayed out of the shipping channel, dealt with the northerly wind trying to turn my kayak to the right, surfed some waves along the firth, met a group of kayakers going against the tide and wind and finally cruised under Kessock Bridge to finish at the sea lock for the Caledonian Canal. What a day!
Now at a campsite at Bunchrew. I get a day off tomorrow whilst awaiting my friend Bee, which is fine with me after completing 120 miles in 5 days!
Day 6 rest day.
Day 7. start of the Caledonian Canal and signs of civilisation as we collected all the litter in pic 1 before we got to Loch Ness.
I saved a bee! Not my friend Bee but a bumble bee I saw floating on the water. Drying out on my deck bag, I watched as the little fella uses its legs to speed up the drying process before flying off to continue its little mission to keep out planet going.
Lock portages were fun... especially lifting my fully loaded sea kayak and Bee's paddle board out the water. Thank you to Derek for all his amazing help and advice!
A total of just over 12 miles before we found our camping spot, pretty good going for a heavy paddle board!
Day 8.
Starting the day with a tail wind, we made good time heading across the loch to Urquhart Castle, hoping to visit their coffee shop but we were denied permission to land on the beach. Their loss as we headed back to the south side and stopped at Foyer, surfing the waves kicked up by the tailwind. A quick stroll up the steep woodland trail to find a shop and a Loch Ness sticker, a spot of lunch by the river and we were back on the water to be greeted with a headwind. No problem for a sea kayak but a definite problem for a paddle board.
The final slog found us a camping spot a few miles shy of Fort Augustus.
Day 9 was a day of up and downs.
We completed Loch Ness, portaged the lock flights at Fort Augustus - stopping for an ice cream on the way through. Some more canal paddling, avoiding a super yacht and the HMS Puncher and HMS Trumpeter, who were training sea cadets.
Out onto the beautiful Loch Oich, the highest point on the Caledonian Canal. Halfway across the wind changed and poor Bee was back to kneeling on her board to paddle through. We made it to the end of the loch but had to call it a day as the wind was so strong.
16 ish miles to go to the end of the Caledonian Canal now. An early start (ish) this morning to catch a tail wind should help, then it's a goodbye to Bee and back on the sea for me to continue to Land's End!
P.S. kayak is taking a battering from all the lock portages...
Day 10 and 11
Caledonian Canal done!
4 and a bit days with Bee. With me in the sea kayak and Bee on her paddle board, headwinds for last couple of days really had an impact on the paddle board but we made the right calls and finished this morning.
Paddling until gone 11pm last night to make the most of the calmer and less windy conditions rewarded us, eventually, with a mirror smooth Loch Lochy and setting up camp in the dark, fighting off the mozzies!
On the water about 8ish this morning and we were done by lunchtime, with a headwind. Again!
Bee has now packed up and gone, I'm sitting out the afternoon doing final checks before I'm back on the sea tomorrow first thing.
I have no support now for a good week or so updates will be every few days to save my phone battery - the tracker will of course be running as usual!
Get those donations in people - these charities need your help!
Cheers!
P.S. I can highly recommend this trip... if you get a chance to walk, paddle or boat the Caledonian Canal, do it! It's beautiful.
Day 12.
Left Corpach at 05.30 on the outgoing tide. Paddling along still felt like I was the canal, the narrow straight feeling like a loch.
It narrows at the end, speeding the water up like a venturi. The Corran Narrows are well known for the fast flows and eddy currents and I can vouch for their existence!
Exiting the narrows into Loch Linnhe, I made a beeline for a beach to have some food, finding the remains of a balloon on the beach before cracking on to make the most of the tide flow. I'd been fighting a headwind all morning but it was now starting to crank up a few gears. By the time I was passing through the Sound of Shuna, the tide had turned against me too. After an about an hour I'd had enough and pulled in to Port Appin for a breather. The tide wouldn't be in my favour again until about 15.00 so I rested on the beach and chatted to anyone who'd listen.
By 14.30 I was itching to go and headed off again. The tide was still against me but I knew it would come to me. I spotted a large rock, or a tiny island, with loads of seals sunbathing but I was too far away to worry them. Beautiful to see though.
The wind speed increased and with it, the waves increased too - every so often launching the kayak into the trough of the next wave. An hour and a half of this and I stopped again for a while, knowing I had just a few miles to go to Ganavan Bay.
Crossing the bay was hard work as I was now on a bearing that took me side on to the waves but I eventually crossed safely, landing on the sheltered beach about 6pm with another 32 miles ticked off.
Within an hour the wind abated and the sea was flat!
Spent the evening in the tent hiding from the mozzies.
Day 13.
Leaving Ganavan at 06.30, I knew i had already missed an hour of tide flow. I wanted that extra hour of sleep instead!
I quickly paddled past Oban, fishing a plastic bottle out the water, and pushed pretty hard, wanting to make good use of a mirror smooth sea and the current. Compared to Day 12 this was a piece of cake!
It didn't seem long before I was entering the Sound of Seil and paddling under Clachan Bridge, a beautiful old arch bridge that must be the smallest sea bridge in the world! The tide was quite low by the point, even by kayak standards as I scraped my paddle on the sea bed in places. Fortunately the waterway opened out and deepened again and exited the Sound as I was losing the tide flow, opting to stop on a small island. After picking up some old rope I decided not to stay due to the many seabirds I was upsetting, instead I made my way across the bay to Shuna Island to eat and wait 6 hours for the right tide. Still - it gave me chance to dry my kit, clean sand out of my tent and start getting some sun on my bone white legs!
Hoping to get somewhere near Crinan Canal on the afternoon tide, about a 3 hour paddle.
Which I did! 12 miles in 2.5 hours. Found the Argyle Trail landing slip but couldn't find anywhere to camp. I popped the kayak into the canal and carried on paddling, picking up some more plastic from the water. In just a few miles I got out at a set of locks, trolleyed the kayak up the hill and, by pure fluke, bumped into the lock keeper. He said I was ok to camp near the loos and he unlocked the shower for me too. Thanks Russ you legend!
Another 30 odd miles done and I reckon I've done over 240 miles so far for @keepbritaintidy #millionmilemission.
Day 14 was a video blog. Headwinds all day. Tough going, pulled into Tarbert to consider pulling out for the day. Nowhere to camp so made new plan to do 9 miles to Skipness Point. That headland was rough but I somehow got through and landed on a remote beach, trying to figure out when it might be safe to cross to Arran
Day 15
That was a tough crossing... although it was very very choppy and some of the waves were a good metre or so, most of it was head on so easily manageable. The wind wasn't too bad but when it gusted, it almost stopped me in my tracks, usually in time with a big wave, the kayak shuddering as it landed off the back of the wave.
I have to point out the safety side here. I didn't take this crossing lightly, I planned it at slack water, I wore my rough weather clothing (dressed for the water temperature not the air), lot's of people knew my plan and my expected time frame, and it was a good option foe the coming weather forecast. At no point was I feeling out of my depth (pun) but this wouldn't be a crossing for inexperienced - so don't copy me unless you know what you're doing!
As I approached Arran, the waves died down but the wind speed increased, probably because I was entering a valley and Lochranza! I barely made headway until I crossed the entrance and made it to the sheltered side.
The longest 4 miles I think I've ever paddled but after trolleying the kayak half a mile up the road to a campsite, I've set up the tent, done my laundry (kayak kit was getting wiffy!), had a shower (I was getting wiffy) and am now sat in their day room with their wiffy (I mean Wi-Fi) access and USB wall sockets charging up everything I have.
It was worth pushing across to Arran because the wind forecast means I'll be having a day or 2 off so at least I have access to amenities rather than being on my own in a tent on a beach... even Roy likes creature comforts at times!
Oh... and this I feel is really important... I also have chocolate.
Also got a round of applause from a passing solo yachtsman when I was about a mile from Arran.
Day 16.
A day off due to high winds which was probably good for me too. I'd covered a fair amount of miles over the last few days.
My camping neighbours Alfred and Gemma kindly gave me a lift to a shop so I could top up on supplies, I especially needed a new dry bag as the one with the tracker was leaking and I think the water was affecting the tracker performance (I had noticed a few tracks missing on the map).
Treated myself to sime proper food from a local sandwich bar based in an old fire station (The Sandwich Station). They kindly donated to the cause, plus a gentleman called John gave me a little cash 'to buy a beer or whatever keeps you going'.
Met a teacher called Fraser from my old school in Totnes - it really is a small world!
The evening included an invitation to a BBQ with Alfred and Gemma - staying at this campsite was definitely the right decision, although we may have drunk quite a lot.
Lochranza Campsite... eco friendly, good vibes and great staff like Karen who comes from Devon too. Plus a visitor who was no doubt scrounging for food.
A good rest in preparation for Day 17. I'm hoping to paddle the 26 miles to the other end of the island to set me up for the crossing back to the mainland.
Day 17.
No rush today - I wouldn't be able to get in the water until after noon and the tide flow wouldn't help me until after 1pm.
Strong westerly winds forecast which will help for the first part and then I'll be sheltered for most of the trip. I'm expecting to feel the effects as I cross a couple of biggish bays however.
My plan today was to paddle the length of Arran, camp on a beach and then set off on Day 18 to paddle back to the mainland.
Getting out of Loch Ranza was a little slow due to the wind but ince I turned right at the entrance, the wind was at my back and I raced along the coast. The wind pushed me for the first 1.5 hours or so as I was heading south east, surfing an occasional wave along the way, before the island shape meant I was heading southerly, the water calmed and I had no wind assist.
The tide was still in my favour though and it was all straight forward until Brodick Bay when the westerly wind hit me side on as it whizzed across the water. Decided to head slightly into the wind to avoid the waves hitting me side on too, I soon noticed the CalMac ferry racing in from my left. Aware of a hefty bow wave from it, I watched with curiosity as it steamed flat out into the bay, seemingly unable to stop!
It did of course, with a beautiful manoeuvre involving a 180 turn and gently mooring at the dock. A few minutes later his wash hit me and made for a pretty exciting ride - especially as his wash appeared to be bouncing around the bay for some time, mixing with the windy waves too!
It was more awkward than dangerous but I soon exited the bay, initially considering to stop for a break now I'd been paddling for some time. I had a few snacks, checked the map for my remaining mileage and decided to just crack on and make the most of the decent tide flow.
I passed Holy Island, which has a Tibetan Retreat on it, saw loads of seals and before I knew it I was at the other end of the island, looking for a decent camping spot.
I found a decent camping spot when I noticed a campsite on the map, spotted a way on to the beach avoiding rocks and finished the day with a prime spot for my tent!
26 miles done in 6 hours... that felt good. Now I'm just watching the forecast to make sure I can safely paddle the 13.5 miles back to the mainland.
Day 18.
Back to the mainland!
There was quite a strong westerly blowing, which should help push me across but I was a little concerned about the potential waves, especially as the wind was slightly off to one side. The concern was the kayak getting turned when any waves hit the stern. Careful checks of the wind forecast and tide flows led me to start around 13.00. Being keen I was on the water at 12.45! I wouldn't get any tidal assistance as I was going across the tide, so I tried to plan it so slack water was when I was roughly halfway across, to minimise any impact on my compass bearing.
It started off fairly choppy but my wave concerns were generally unfounded. There was one issue however - shipping! Within 30 minutes I found myself bobbing on the waves as I waited for the first one to pass, a large workboat. The second was a while later but this one was a container ship. Fortunately, this area is a marine protection zone and ships have to slow - I had plenty of time to clear the ship without any worries.
By this time I was well over halfway across, the wind had eased and the waves were now just a soft chop. Every 15 minutes I ticked off another mile until I reached the other side and pulled up on a beach, covering 14 miles in under 3.5 hours.
A bit of nosh and I was back on the water, knowing I was running out of tide, trying to rack up as many miles as possible enjoying a sea as calm as a mirror, and plucking a piece of polystyrene from it. By 19.00 I started to search for a camp spot, eventually settling for the beach at Lendalfoot, landing among a ton of seaweed which appeared to cover the kayak!
More food, turned in for the night, slept like a log to the sound of the waves lapping the beach... Another 25 miles completed.
Day 19.
Woke up about 6am wondering what the day would bring. First thing I did was check the weather and the tides and my heart sank when I saw fairly high southerly winds forecast for the afternoon, which happen to coincide when the tide would be in my favour. The result is likely to mean 1. A hard slog against the wind and 2. Wind-against-tide waves, adding to the slog. I can handle it but it becomes very tiring and very tiresome.
Pondering on the possibilities and aware that the high winds could be around for a few days, I packed down camp and was back in the kayak about 07.45 heading for Ballantrae, a small town with a shop and places to eat (packet food is ok but a decent meal wins every time).
Just 90 minutes later I pulled up on the beach, got changed into my civvies and found a café and had my first proper meal for a while and my first proper Scottish Brekkie. Tasty!
Returning to the kayak, doing social media updates, watching the sea conditions - I've made the safety call to stay here until the wind drops. No point in knackering myself out just for a few miles gained especially as I have to round Corsewall Point which is known to have a nasty tide race in certain conditions.
What is quite frustrating is the sea looks relatively calm - until one spots all the 'white horses' and watches a small boat go past...
Now to make a plan for the rest of the day... there is a pub!
Sidenote. Ballantrae public loos have music playing... not sure I'm comfortable with my daily routine being joined by Rod Stewart...
Day 20. Read a book.
Day 21.
Left Ballentrae at 04.25 with the sun rising behind me. I knew I had a 4 hour window of fairly low winds and tidal assistance so pushed hard to get to Portpatrick, 22 miles away. I would usually expect that distance to take up to 6 hours with a beach stop, 5 and a half without but I pulled into the harbour at about 09.20!
The tide flows worked well and, apart from a few rough bits on the headlands, it was generally ok although as the wind speed increased, the waves started to getting bigger too. Not really a problem as it was all head on but the waves were close together, which caused the kayak to 'porpoise' a lot. Very tiring!
Crossing the entrance to Loch Ryan (a ferry port) was fun as I waited for two ferries to pass, which gave me a chance to pick out loads of wrappers from the water. Funny how the litter increases when near a busy town
Beach cleaned Portpatrick beach on arrival... had a good feed at a local pub... wind now howling!
Dragged the kayak up a mile long hill to a campsite. One wheel has cracked on the trolley so I'll epoxy repair that today.
Trevor and Gillian, my camping neighbours, kindly paid for my camping!
Day 22.
Today included a bit of food shopping, repairing the kayak trolley, washing my stinky kayaking clothing and eating lots of carbs.
I also spent ages planning Day 23. The tide flows here can be very fast indeed plus, when I get to the Mull of Galloway, there will be a bit of a nasty tide race. If you are unsure as to what a tide race is, it's the name given to an area prone to fast moving water, eddies or standing waves. This happens because of a constriction - the area could narrow or have an underwater obstruction causing the water flow to speed up. The faster the tide flow, the worse it generally is and it can move around depending on the tide and wind too. Portland Bill is one of the worst in the UK but fortunately the Mull of Galloway doesn't even make it into the top 10!
Every tide race is different. At first glance it could look flat calm but a closer look may show some very 'confused' water, or it could look really rough and bumpy. Some can be avoided by giving them a wide berth (sometimes a few miles), others one can hug the coastline.
We can minimise the effects to a certain degree. Slack water (the turn of the tide) is when the water is at its slowest and the race is at its most benign, although weather will have an effect too. Fortunately tomorrow, the wind and tide are in the same direction which will help calm it down but I have to be honest - I'm not expecting an easy ride. I spoke with the Portpatrick RNLI today for some local knowledge, which has helped ease my concerns a little. This is on par with Duncansby Head, the tide race I had to do on the first day, and I got through that one but I'm not being complacent.
I have checked, double checked and triple checked the tides, tide flows, weather and garnered all the information I can get and it all points to getting around that headland between 15.45 and 16.00 tomorrow. Slack water doesn't last very long here so military level precision with timing is vital. I'll be leaving Portpatrick at 10.30, enjoying the fast tide south for the 21 and a bit miles to just past the Mull.
Wish me luck and feel free to check my plan on my behalf!
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Trevor and Gillian, my campsite neighbours, for their help, advice, great conversation and their generous donation to the cause. You are both amazing and I can't thank you enough!
Day 23
Leaving Portpatrick a few minutes before 10.30, I headed south (ish) with the wind behind me. The sea was calm and in a shade over 2 hours I arrived at Port Logan for lunch, 11 miles down the coast. The tide flows were definitely in my favour!
Knowing I only had 10 miles left, I had an epiphany about the tidal streams and tide times - I hadn't allowed for British Summer Time! A quick check confirmed this, which meant I had an extra hour for lunch.
Me being me I got impatient and left 30 minutes early, knowing I could make my way slowly and enjoy the scenery. If you've read a previous post about today, you'll be aware of the Mull of Galloway (MOG) tide race I'd been pondering about. Well, the sea around every headland I passed was affected by the fast moving tide flow. Some were a little bumpy, some were lumpy and some were just really fast. Most had eddies and they had me wondering what I was going to experience at MOG.
On the approach to MOG there appeared to be a lull in the conditions. The wind had dropped and the sea, whilst already fairly calm, flattened even more. Was this the calm before the storm?
As it happened, no. The plan worked, I nipped around the Mull and it was barely choppy. After all the lead up it was actually a little boring, although a quick chat with some fisherman along the way brightened things up.
Deciding to make it to Drummore for the night, I got my head down and, as I was now heading north, fought the headwind that had been helping until this point. I also had the tide against me... sigh.
Pulling on to to a beach near a boat storage area, I asked the owner if it was ok to camp and he introduced himself (David) and told me it was fine and if I go to his pub (The Clashwhannon) just up the road, he would feed me too! So a massive thank you to David and his wee boy Alba, Jason for helping carry the kayak, Margaret and Louise for looking after me in the Clashwhannon and the chef, who's name I didn't get.
Oh... they also have a caravan site so check out their website and have a holiday there!
https://clashwhannon.co.uk/
Day 24.
Not sure about today. After the highs of yesterday it kind of fell a bit flat today. It was a strange day.
It started well, with young Alba helping me out with the kayak and David on hand to help carry it.
The plan was to cross from Drummore to Port William (PW) a distance of just over 13 miles, have a break and assess the conditions for the rest of the day. As I'd be crossing the Luce Bay tide flow, the wind was my only concern.
Checking 2 different forecasts and coming up with similar results, I knew I would start with fairly high north westerly winds but finish with in much calmer conditions, the forecasts suggesting the last 2 thirds having less wind. I reckoned on a 3.5 hour crossing after getting some information from locals David and Jason too.
Setting of about 12.30, I initially aimed slightly left of PW to allow for the wind pushing me to the south. After about 1.5 hours (6 miles ish) I tried to aim back to PW but the wind kept 'weather cocking' me in a more northerly direction. The wind never relaxed the entire crossing, if anything it increased and I know better than to fight the powers of nature!
Staying on nature's intended heading, I reached the other side and finally had some respite in the shallower water. 3 hours of mainly paddling on my left side, I had a banana and worked out I was nearly 2 miles away from PW. Definitely my worst ever attempt at an accurate crossing but after 15 miles of paddling, I made PW in 3.5 hours as planned.
On my approach to the harbour, maybe quarter of a mile away, a Coastguard helicopter passed overhead, circled me and hovered above, a crew member leaning out the side door using hand signals to check I was OK. I gave a thumbs up, took a photo, he flew off and I continued. As I arrived at the harbour a couple of guys, one in a drysuit holding a radio, asked if I was ok. Again I answered yes. My first thought was 'The tracker has failed, it looks like I'm stuck in the middle of Luce Bay and someone called for help'.
It transpired that somebody back in Drummore had contacted the Coastguard believing I was 'having difficulties'. The lifeboat and helicopter had been launched. My initial thinking was one of guilt. What if somebody had genuinely needed these guys and there they were looking for me, a kayaker NOT in distress.
Alec, the Port William Inshore Rescue crew member who saw me in, could see I was well kitted out. I explained what I was doing, mentioned that people knew my plan, pointed out the tracker etc. They could see I had it all in hand and they were just responding to a call from a concerned member of the public and the main thing was this end result - I wasn't in need of assistance.
Thank you to that member of public. If I was in trouble, your reactions could have made a difference. That's what really counts here.
The plus side to all this is the cafe above the lifeboat station. It helps fund their rescues and even though Helen and the team wouldn't take payment for feeding me, I still slipped some notes in their pot and bought a keyring as a momento.
Like I said - it was a strange day.
Note: Thank you to all rescue volunteers around the world. You give up your time to helps those in distress without hesitation. You are heroes in the true sense of the word and I hope I never need you!
Day 25.
Waking up to a view of a flat sea was the perfect start to the day. Checking the tides, currents and wind forecast, I worked out the best time to leave Port William would be about 13.30.
The wind forecast showed a slight increase in speed and gusts so I made 3 plans for the day.
1. Paddle to the Isle of Whithorn where one can camp in the pub car park. Distance of 12.5 miles.
2. Paddle to Garlieston, camping should possible near the seafront. Distance of 20 miles including stopping for a break at Isle of Whithorn.
3. Paddle just past the Isle and then cross Wigtown Bay to Brighouse Bay, a distance of 25 miles.
Number 3 was being hopeful about the wind and was honestly unlikely.
Number 2 was my prefered option and would mean a shorter crossing of Wigtown Bay tomorrow.
Number 1 was what I ended up with as my left shoulder started aching rounding Burrow Head, which was fairly choppy. Yesterday's crossing had meant a lot of paddling on the left side because of the wind, today was the day to feel the effects of it. No point in making it worse and I'll see how it feels tomorrow after some more rest.
On arrival at the Isle of Whithorn I got chatting to Kerr, part of the local Coastguard, and family (they kindly donated) about safety stuff and plastic before they went rowing in their recently rebuilt gig boat. Had a natter with Dave, a local resident and his wife (also donated!). It would appear yesterday's exploits have made me a minor celebrity
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