Imagine yourself gliding along the surface of the sea close in to a rocky shoreline. As you pass the headland of a small island, you come across a group of seals in the water just a few kayak lengths away. Cormorants are diving and feeding around you. Away to the west, you can see the silhouette of the mountains of Mull. The late afternoon sun paints patterns on the water as gannets wheel above you.
Sea Kayaking is one of the fastest growing water sports. It particularly appeals to people who like to get out into wild and beautiful places without the artificiality, smell and noise of an engine. In a sea kayak, you can explore fascinating islands, coastlines and sea lochs with the freedom to go where no other form of transport can take you.
Kayaking can be serene, a peaceful way of moving through the marine landscape. But if you like some excitement, we can find wild tide races and powerful waves to challenge your skill and taste for adventure.
For novices, this course will start by getting you into the kayaks on the grass! This gives you a chance to get used to the kayak and equipment and you will also get a short safety briefing. Then its off to an interesting and beautiful location. Maybe Seil Sound or Loch Etive but, if its particularly rough, then Loch Awe gives the feel of sea kayaking but in a sheltered and tide free location.
The first hour or so will be spent in sheltered water, teaching you the basic skills. Then we will go for a short tour, getting the feel for the kayaks, learning sea specific techniques and talking about navigation, tides and currents. We will probably stop for a leg stretch and a snack on a rocky island and finish off with a demonstration deep water rescue, but only if you want to.
You will not be “made to capsize” but if it happens anyway (it does occasionally) you will already know what to do and we will be there to make sure that you come to no harm.
For these trips, we usually start about 10:00 and finish about 16:30. depending on tides, weather and how keen you are. Evening sessions can be arranged.
Our base overlooks the Falls of Lora on the way to Oban – you may have seen kayaks and canoes there playing in the waves under the Connel Bridge. If you would like to join these kayaks one day, this is your chance to start.
We will provide the kayaks, all the safety gear and even hot drinks. Bring yourself, warm clothes (we will advise on this when you book) and a picnic.
We can get very busy in the summer so please be sure to book well ahead. Whatever the weather, we will find you some great water and scenery to explore.
Your vouchers can also be used as part payment against longer trips and training courses.
Transport
Yes
Gift Ref: SEASTR001