Anglesey Stick

I'm not superstitious - more from Rich as guest blogger

2012-01-27T09:51:00.000Z

Friday the 13th – A trip to the Skerries

Paddling to the Skerries is seen as a bit of a rite of passage for sea kayakers and can be a fairly serious trip in the best of conditions. Deciding to paddle there on Friday the 13th may not seem like the best idea for a lot of people (I’m not superstitious though). 4 black cats crossed my path on the way there (I’m not superstitious).

I arranged to meet Roger, Simon and Kevin in Porth Swtan for 09.30 to get on the water for 10:00. Kevin couldn’t make it so it ended up just being three of us. Once we got the kit and boats down onto the beach and loaded up, we headed up along the coast towards Carmel Head on the still flooding tide. We were making very good time so engaged in a bit of rock hopping as well as some cave exploration. There are a number of big caves with a few stacks and arches on this stretch of coastline worth exploring.

The tide was running fairly quickly, and with a light wind blowing against it the water was fairly choppy.

Once at Carmel Head we sneaked into the small inlet and landed on the beach. We climbed up onto the headland to have a cup of coffee and a snack, and took our time to observe the conditions as well as the rescue taking place off the coast of North Stack.

We all confirmed our course to steer (courtesy of Roger’s vector) and began paddling. The tide had slowed considerably in the 30 minutes or so we’d spent at Carmel Head but was far from slack. I always find paddling on a bearing slightly unnerving, having to put all your trust into a calculation especially when you can see your ultimate target but aren’t paddling towards it! I had this same mistrust of sorts when I was learning to fly light aircraft, but experience has taught me that the calculations are usually correct and that you have to trust them fully.

We were aiming to land on the island exactly at slack water, and after consulting the charts and all the planning documentation, it was time to head back down to our boats and begin crossing.

Our crossing time was 40 minutes (which, incidentally, was exactly the same as my planning) and we ended up being slightly to the south of the island (much better than to the north given the state of the tide) and therefore had to paddle for the last 5 minutes or so directly towards the island. The tide was becoming slack exactly as we got into the sound in between Ynys Arw and the main island (again exactly as planned). There doesn’t seem to be an easy egress point on this side of the island, so we got out just to the north of the lighthouse.

We spent about 20 minutes on the island, refuelling, taking photos and watching the seals (around 15 of them). It is a magical and somewhat eerie place, where we enjoyed fantastic panoramic views of the north-west of Anglesey and the Isle of Man.

But, it is important not to enjoy the island too much as the tides here are some of the strongest around the UK, so we had to get on with crossing back to Anglesey. We went round the northern tip of the island given how calm the conditions were and cut back through in between the main island and Ynys Berchen.

On our return leg, we just pointed our kayaks towards West Mouse to start with, then as we approached half way across, directly at Porth Swtan. Me and Roger stayed offshore here to make the most of the tide, whereas Simon headed closer to the shore and engaged in some more rock hopping. The crossing from The Skerries back to Porth Swtan took about an hour and when we arrived back at the beach, Kevin was there to greet our huge grins. He was disappointed that he hadn’t been able to come out with us, but we promised to take him there very soon!

I’ve read several accounts of trips to The Skerries and it is not a trip to underestimate. It is an open crossing exposed to the prevailing south-westerlies we so frequently get here on Anglesey, and as I have already mentioned some very strong tides (5 knot spring rate)! Our conditions were favourable to say the least – light northerly, easterly and southerly winds accompanied by very little swell. We did paddle over there just off spring tides so the flow was strong but sound planning and efficient management of time on the day served us well.

I’m very happy to have got this big trip done as it has been on my wish list for quite some time. Simon and Roger had been to the Skerries before, but only Roger had been there by kayak so a big day for all of us. I’m still working on Simon to start using an Anglesey Stick – maybe him having to work hard to keep up with me and Roger may persuade him one day to convert!

No one told me it was fancy dress - another entry from Rich

2012-01-23T12:08:00.002Z

New Year’s Eve, 2011 – an open invite from John Willacy arrived a few days before to take part in a social paddle (no racing allowed) as a finale to the year’s Menai Challenge. An early (0900 at Gallows) start to arrange the shuttle, and once everyone had arrived (20 paddlers in total!) we headed off to Foel leaving some cars behind. I had the pleasure of the company of Jim Krawiecki and John Bunyan in the car and we started chatting about various things, especially about the fancy dress.

JB had brought along a monkey mask, and on arriving at Foel discovered that Pete Baars had brought along his infamous chicken suit, John Willacy had a penguin suit, and a few others had made token fancy dress efforts in the form of silly hats and masks.

Once on the water (it’s amazing how long this process takes the more people there are involved in the event!) we made our way first towards Y Felinheli and once alongside the village, we all rafted up so that JW could pass around a dry bag full of chocolates! A very welcome surprise and because of the tide, we still managed in excess of 5km/h even as an unpowered raft.

We broke off once we rounded the corner and discussions began (started by Aled Williams, of course) about who was interested in doing the ‘advanced’ loop (an extra loop of the bridges). About 6 or 7 volunteered to take part including me, and once the group was formed, we left the rest of the paddlers to enter the Swellies. My pace grew considerably, reaching a maximum of 17.7km/h in the tide between the bridges.

A reasonably tricky break out under the suspension bridge was good fun and now it was time to paddle against the tide back towards the Britannia Bridge. This isn’t as difficult as it seems at first; a number of eddies form in this part of the strait and it is possible to make fairly good progress towards the Britannia eddy hopping.

There are a couple of difficult spots where one has to break into the main flow and attempt to ferry glide into another eddy; my speed on the day rarely got above 4km/h doing this, however these ferry glides are infrequent (thankfully) and the most difficult of which on the day’s tide was between Ynys Gored Goch (the island with the house on) and a large eddy just short of the bridge. Once round the pillar, we got back on the tide and rode it towards the suspension bridge again.

Once past the suspension bridge, we quickly caught up with the rest of the group where we settled back into a ‘bimble’ pace passing the town of Menai Bridge, Bangor Pier, the Gazelle and on to the last stretch to Gallows. An interesting patch of following sea between the pier and Beaumaris provided some entertainment in the form of surfing practice to arrive at Gallows 2 hours and 20 minutes after departing Foel.

The process of getting 20 kayaks loaded up and people packed into cars was another sight to behold, before departing for a stop-over at the Anglesey Arms for a drink for more chatting and socialising. I think enough of us hassled JW to force him to organise the Menai Challenge again for 2012, as it has been very popular. A quick trip back to Foel after farewells to collect the remainder of the cars ended the day. With 19.6km paddled, I headed home to begin preparing for the evening’s festivities.

Photos courtesy of John Willacy and Jimski

The 4* Sea Kayak Leader Award - a guest blog from Rich

2012-01-20T09:26:00.000Z

The 4* Sea Kayak Leader Award, Anglesey, North Wales

Having done my 4* training about 6 months earlier, and with winter fast approaching, I decided to get on and book my assessment. Having had an excellent 2 days on the training course with Nigel Dennis, I booked with SKUK again to do my assessment. The weather for the weekend of the course wasn’t in the least bit seasonal for November, with northerly winds and sunny weather on the cards.

I turned up at the boathouse on Newry Beach on the Saturday morning with my kit and boat (an old roto-moulded P&H Capella). The course was going to be assessed by Nigel Dennis, Phil Clegg and Eila Wilkinson. I was the first to arrive followed quickly by Simon, my work colleague. The rest of the group (8 of us in total) consisted of a Spaniard, 3 Germans and 2 Swiss paddlers, who had all travelled to the UK to undertake the course. After a few introductions, wasting no time at all, we went straight into our navigation exam, planning a route in the North East of England (not our route for the day, I must add!). After battling through it for the best part of two hours, we headed off to Borthwen, Rhoscolyn to do some paddling.

Conditions in the bay were completely calm but looking beyond the old lifeboat station I could see that there were some lumpy conditions just off the beacon. The rest of the morning, after the classroom based exam was spent circling the cluster of islands the beacon sits on going through a series of scenarios, as well as giving people an opportunity to lead a short coaching session on a particular skill. Given the conditions, most of them involved surfing whether intended or not!

When it was my turn I gave a short lesson on breaking in and out of the flow running in between 2 of the islands. With these lessons completed, we headed over to Porth y Cwrwgl for a spot of lunch in the sunshine. Porth y Cwrwgl makes for a great stop-off point with its sheltered bay and sandy beach. After everyone had eaten and just before going back on the water, we spent a few minutes ‘repairing’ Phil’s boat (i.e. covering most of the hull with Denso tape) and discussing strategies for problem solving.

Once back on the water, we headed back towards the beacon where the swell had grown considerably. It was time to look at rescues and towing, which we did in small groups. I was grouped with Simon and one of the Swiss guys. We set about each having a go at rescuing a fellow paddler and getting them back in their boat as well as a bit of towing which we did for about an hour.

We also looked at a few other problem solving exercises but before long we had a real-life problem on our hands. Our Swiss guy, after spending time in the water, had developed quite a bad case of sea-sickness and after I’d rafted up with him and alerted Phil of the problem, he vomited all over my deck (which didn’t do my stomach any favours, as you can imagine!). Me and Simon then set about getting him out of there and back ashore so I set up towing a raft (of Simon and the ill paddler) back across behind the beacon and towards the safety of the bay. Just before we were about to do the final bit of the crossing though, Phil wanted to see me and Simon demonstrate our rough water roll, so whilst he looked after the ill paddler we broke off the tow and raft, did a roll each and then got back into the raft and towed back to the shore.

Once back in the calm waters in Borthwen bay, we then looked at a few self-rescues before getting out. It was pretty much dark by the time we got all the kit and boats loaded up and we headed back to the boathouse. We had a short debrief before departing to watch the fireworks (November the 5th)…

The next morning, we were back in Holyhead where the weather was much more favourable. The northerly wind had more or less disappeared and the swell had died down considerably overnight. However, these conditions don’t lend themselves to assessing someone for their 4* award, so a decision was made to head to Trearddur Bay to see if we could find any exciting water.

We were split into two groups, and today was also the day where we had students to look after, so we had a number of willing volunteers from Snowdonia, Amlwch and a couple of other canoe clubs join us. The idea is that the students are at around the 3* Sea standard, but there was a big variety in the group’s experience and skill level which had to be accommodated. I was in Nigel’s group for the day, and from Trearddur Bay we headed north, during which we did a bit of rock-hopping and some on-the-water navigation exercises.

It quickly dawned on me that we were heading towards (and therefore probably into) the overfalls and tide-race at Penrhyn Mawr. We sneaked through the race and headed up towards South Stack, stopping for lunch just north-east of Porth y Gwyddel in Abraham’s Bosom. After lunch, we headed back south towards Penrhyn Mawr, this time using the race working one-to-one with a student, teaching them the basic skills for paddling in a tide race.

I was lucky in some respects that my student was a pretty competent paddler, and was himself looking at undertaking the 4* assessment in the near future. I spent some time working with him on breaking in and out of the flow, as well as some surfing and rough water handling skills. We spent about an hour and a half in the race looking at various things, covering the remainder of the syllabus. We then headed back towards Trearddur Bay as the sun was starting to set, just getting off the water in time to witness a dramatic sunset.

We waited for the other group to return before heading back to Holyhead Sailing Club for debriefing. We all had a quick drink before it was time for us to hear the results of what we were here for – pass, defer or fail… I was happy to learn from Nigel that I’d passed the award and could now call myself a 4* Sea Kayak Leader. Simon also passed so we headed home very happy.

I was told before the award by a couple of people that I shouldn’t use my Anglesey Stick and that I should try and get a fibreglass boat (not my old plastic one) before trying to go for the assessment. I ignored both these pieces of advice, and feel glad that I did. I haven’t paddled on the sea with a European-style paddle for over 3 years and was reluctant to undertake an important assessment with a paddle I wasn’t used to. The same goes for the boat; I’d paddled the P&H Capella for a number of years and didn’t think switching boats for the assessment was a particularly good idea. It all goes to show that when going for assessment, don’t try and change what you’ve been doing dramatically, stick to what you know and as long as you’re ready and at the standard to pass the award, you will, with whatever type of paddle and boat you are used to.

There are a number of articles on the web about how Greenland-style paddles are no good for surf, rough water and towing, but I hope that this article can go some way to changing these misplaced perceptions. I’ve always found it easier to tow with a Greenland paddle, I use my paddle for any sea trip I go on, which frequently involve rough water and surf and I have never had a problem with its performance. The other benefit is that if you do fall in, a roll is much easier with the Greenland paddle in my opinion, so I’m a lot more confident in my ability to right myself if I do end up capsizing for any reason.

Thanks to all the folk that helped me gain the experience and skill required to pass this challenging assessment. You know who you are!

A quiet paddle

2011-11-17T10:23:00.001Z

Just finished the last of the paddle orders from the Storm Gathering, which was a pretty good event from our point of view.


Bespoke paddle

A particular bonus was some video recording and editing done by Matt Giblin of Kayak Essentials and Bubble Films
with Rich demonstrating some moves on a wobbler.

All this meant that I could actually get out on the water, with a very sunny day on the Menai Strait - so long since I had been out that 20k felt like a substantial trip.


Extreme conditions at the bridge


Lots of Curlews

followed the next day by a quick paddle in a Tahe Marine Greenlander

Interesting boat to paddle, very responsive to edging, and the handling characteristics change dramatically with the skeg position. Seat was less supportive than I am used to (stomach muscles will ache), and Estonians must have very small feet.

Couth Kuthe

2011-11-01T09:31:00.000Z

We have probably all met charmless ego-centric sponsored paddlers, and of course we all know that Americans are stereotypically brash, over-confident and frequently, over here. It was very pleasant therefore to meet Paul Kuthe who despite being a sponsored paddler, and 'over here' for the Storm Gathering, is clearly a fine ambassador for the sport, both in manner, and sheer paddling ability. While he was here, Paul spent a couple of days filming with Justine Curgenven, so look out for him in 'This is the Sea 5'

It has been a busy week, starting with the Storm Gathering where we shared a small retail space with Pete Baars and sales team, and ending with the Swellies Extreme races.


The green at Menai Bridge - note the big tide


Most people relaxed before the start of the race


But not John Willacy


Only one Greenland paddler - Mark Tozer


Justine Curgenven on a late run


Followed by Paul Kuthe

The Fickle Finger of Fame

2011-10-25T15:29:00.001+01:00

I have always been interested in the way that certain events or particular people become famous. It is all the more interesting when it appears that something rather more significant has happened elsewhere or concerns another individual.

At the beginning of the month a new record was set for crossing the channel by 'canoe' (Surf Ski Kayaks / V12) with paddler Paul Wycherley accompanied* by a support boat. The crossing made the national news. At about the same time, a new record was set for crossing the Irish sea, as John Willacy with no support boat paddled a Rockpool Taran from Holyhead to Howth in just over 11 hours. Nothing in the national news.

Looking somewhat further back, much was made of the achievements of Helen Skelton on the Amazon - lots of national news coverage, and talk of breaking world records. Without wanting to knock Helen's efforts in any way, I could not help but compare them to those of Freya Hoffmeister - maybe Australia is just much smaller than I thought.

I am rather too old to expect the world to be fair, or news reporting to be unbiased, but .........

*I am not commenting here on whether or not the support boat assisted the passage in any way.

Just a clearing up shower

2011-10-19T12:24:00.002+01:00

The Storm Gathering is nearly upon us, and the weather has generally been
living up to the billing - currently hailing here. We have a collection of sticks - some demonstrators, some shiny new ones - and a couple of balance stools (wobblers), pins (Norsaqs), etc., ready for the weekend, so feel free to ask if you want to borrow something.

This month's Ocean Paddler has an 'Expedition Top Tips' section with plenty of good advice and some humour, not least from Marcus Demuth (and no, I don't use a deck bag). I particularly like a comment from Mark Rainsley "It's not an 'expedition' unless everyone is hungry, miserable and issuing recriminations as to whose bright idea this was ..." as it fits our own family saying "It's not a proper outing unless you come back tired, wet, cold and hungry".


Cold, wet, tired and hungry

Mind you, in our family all rain is traditionally 'just a clearing up shower'

False Alarm With Good Intent

2011-10-13T11:04:00.000+01:00

I am working on an article for the SeaKayakWales website that takes a close look at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency annual report on Canoe and Kayak Incidents

The report raises a number of issues, and the article will look closely at what seakayakers can learn from the incidents, but today, I am going to raise just one point - the level of false alarms with good intent:


MCA 2010 Canoe and Kayak Incident Annual Report

It would be possible to attribute many of the incidents to informant ignorance:

"Report of kayaker struggling to make way. Team attended and confirmed object was actually a buoy"

or a misunderstanding of what seakayaks can be used for:

"Call received reporting that 2 kayakers were seen heading towards The Skerries island. The informant was concerned as this is a dangerous stretch of fast flowing tidal race"

but the shear number or reports makes it worth examining our own responsibilities.

In the past, I have been fairly reluctant to inform the coastguard about any intended trip - it all feels a bit 'big brother' - we might easily change our venue or destination before or during the trip - what is the point when we are only going out to do some rescue practice - and we have to remember to let them know when we are off the water, but have a look at the following:

"Call from a member of the public with concern for a group of 5 kayakers off Rhoscolyn, 2 of which appeared to be being towed. Rhoscolyn CRT was tasked to investigate. Once the kayak party had come ashore it was confirmed that all persons were safe and were conducting a rescue drill"

"Report received that 2 people with a canoe appeared stranded on Perch Rock in the Menai strait. The current in this area is very fast flowing. Bangor CRT was tasked to investigate. It transpired that the couple were experienced and competent and were happy riding the tidal race, but had not informed the Coastguard of their intentions"

"Following a 999 call from a person, Tenby Inshore Lifeboat and Tenby Coastguards were tasked to search for 2 kayakers thought to be in difficulties off Pendine Beach. The Kayakers were both instructors from the nearby Pendine School Camp and were not in any difficulty"

"999 Call received from pier master reporting a kayak party of 5 persons were in difficulties in the Menai Strait due to adverse weather conditions. 1 of the party had capsized and was being towed ashore. Bangor CRT was tasked to investigate. The party were located and confirmed that they were advanced paddlers and were comfortable in the weather conditions, but had neglected to inform the Coastguard of their intentions"

I am pretty amazed that the pier master did not know better, but that only emphasizes the point.

While we should not need to let the coastguard know what we are doing, it seems that the only practical way of reducing the level of false alarms, is to do so, and where possible provide a means of contact such as VHF or mobile phone.

But, do you know how?

Indy Sunshine

2011-10-04T12:33:00.000+01:00

Visited the Indefatigable for the now traditional trade day during their symposium.


Anglesey Stick stuff on the balcony

Lots of interest in wobblers on the balcony, and sticks on the water


Interesting juxtaposition of ancient and modern technology - an Anglesey Stick and a Rockpool Taran

and it was really quite busy for a while


Paddlers using Anglesey Sticks on the Menai Strait

rounded off by a visit from 22 squadron


22 Squadron - C Flight provide their version of catabatic wind

all in all, a pleasant low-key event. Many thanks to all at the Indefatigable

Straight to the point

2011-09-28T10:36:00.000+01:00

I have been making a couple of harpoons for the Storm Gathering - they are a bit rough and ready, and only traditional in the sense of being made (largely) from driftwood.


Harpoons with Norsaqs

Real harpoons with metal tips, thrown by an expert would of course be capable of killing large sea mammals (Pete Baars?) whereas these are only likely to maim, and will probably only ever be used in anger against a floating hula hoop.

Not the fruit and veg man - a guest blog entry by Rich

2011-09-01T15:17:00.000+01:00

Simon and I are about to undertake the new BCU UKCC 4* Sea Kayak Leader Award (yes, I’m aware of the ridiculous length of the title, but this isn’t Twitter), and therefore needed some trip planning practice. Someone suggested a trip from Caernarfon to Trefor, so following a detailed consultation with the charts and the tidal atlas, decided that Tuesday morning was the perfect time to do it. With a weather and wind forecast that changed by the hour and an early start to drop a vehicle off in Trefor, it all looked like the trip would be shelved but for a last minute decision to just do it.


Coed Helen

We got on the water by Coed Helen at 09.30(note to self: a great access and egress point with toilets etc.) to get to Abermenai Point for slack water at 10.40. The first bit of the trip was good fun, especially at one point on nearing Fort Belan noticing that we’d been stationary (despite our best efforts) for a good 5 minutes. One should never underestimate Spring tides in the Strait.


Approaching Fort Belan and Abermenai Point

However, once round the corner, with a quick stop by Simon to adjust his backrest, we were making good progress with the tide increasing in speed in our favour along the coast.

Simon adjusting the backrest in his Nigel Dennis Kayaks Romany

The cannons at Fort Belan

A lot of clapotic wave action due to South Sands sand-bank and the steep shingle beach added to the excitement. We stopped for a quick bite to eat and a very fast cup of tea (courtesy of Simon’s fancy new stove) at Dinas Dinlle. The landing on a dumping shingle beach added extra excitement, but the beach did provide us with a nicely-built bench to sit on.


Anglesey Stick on Dinas Dinlle beach - Simon packing away his JetBoil

From here on the weather improved steadily with Holyhead Mountain coming into view behind us, basking in sunlight (unlike us) and with the wind going round from the North-West (beam-on) to North-East (stern). The following wind and increasing tide, as well as the refreshments increased our pace and soon we were steaming along, taking in the dramatic views of Bwlch Mawr (509m), Gyrn Goch (492m) and Gyrn Ddu as well as Yr Eifl (564m), the latter of which providing us with a perfect directional beacon to our ultimate destination.

The mountains of the Lleyn Peninsula

Soon we were rounding the corner past the fish farm of Pontllyfni,


Fish Farm and Pontllyfni on the left, Clynnog Fawr on the right

past the 7th century church of St Beuno in Clynnog Fawr (an important stopping place for Pilgrims on their way to Bardsey in medieval times) before the pier and harbour wall of Trefor provided us with a glimpse of our finish, approximately 4km away.

Trefor coming into view nicely, with the pier and harbour visible

A final slog to the finish was again rewarded by a very fast cup of tea before the boats and kit were bundled into the car to set off back to Caernarfon to pick Simon’s car up. Nearly 21km of paddling in just over 4 hours on the water.


Trefor harbour with Yr Eifl in the background

A typical bank holiday monday

2011-08-30T09:13:00.000+01:00

Inshore waters was forecasting North Westerly 4 or 5, occasionally 6 in North - i.e. Anglesey, where we were. Ideal conditions then to take out a complete beginner (aged 12) and someone who last paddled in the early seventies, and that was on a flat bit of the river Medway (aged somewhat more).

Said beginner did very well in the stealth boat, before swapping to the one with a built-in engine.


Rich and India in the Anglesey Stick Double

and her dad paddled happily away in the Wild One.

Pies and tea on Tim's Beach, with a bit more work on the way back as the tide began to ebb.

About 8k paddled.

Low tide, low key

2011-08-23T10:10:00.001+01:00

Tide is nearly always a factor when you plan a trip on the Anglesey coast, and sometimes low tide options seem scarce unless you are happy to carry/trolley your kayak over what seems like several miles of soft sand.

Last week's option was simple - launch at Foel (by the old Mermaid), dodge through the sandbanks to Caernarfon and head off to Belan.


Caernarfon to Belan

Then across to Abermenai point (some excitement for those new to seakayaking as the flooding tide began to exercise its antipathy to the wind direction) before a blast back along the Anglesey shore with a magnificent backdrop.


Snowdonia backdrop

and return to Foel as the light was fading.


Foel, Anglesey

about 12k paddled.

Always happy to paddle the straits and look at the wildlife, and in this instance help Frank get to grips with an Anglesey Stick. The route needs no explanation, so I will let the pictures do the talking.


Trying out Frank's Delphin - good fun


Riding the tide at Felinheli


Frank getting into the rhythm


Grey Heron


Similar Seal

Clear water and sky

2011-07-28T17:27:00.000+01:00

Another pleasant evening paddle, this time from Porth Trecastell (Cable Bay) to Porth Terfyn (near Aberffraw). As nearly always, the first section (passing another Porth Terfyn) was lumpier than the general conditions would have suggested

Near Porth Trecastell

but pretty calm after Ynys Meibion, with ample opportunities for rock hopping.

Rich's Stick

Not a bad view from the beach

Porth Terfyn

With plenty of clear water - bit of an idyllic spot really, and felt like paddling in Greece with the sunshine.

Thought this channel was a bit narrow on the way back - especially after losing my transit on the old Anglesey Aluminium chimney

Narrow Channel

About 11km paddled.

A quiet evening out

2011-07-13T09:20:00.000+01:00

A warm sunny evening, so Emma and I went for a quiet paddle out to Pilot's Cove. Just before we left the beach, we were warned that "the wind is offshore, you know". Now, you will be pleased to learn that I already has some idea that this was the case. Apart from having checked the forecast, is was - how can I put this - bleeding obvious. Actually, the wind was pretty light (N2/3) - and we were in real sea kayaks (unlike the person issuing the warning), and generally well equipped. Even well offshore, the sea state was only slight.


Llanddwyn, looking towards the Lleyn

Very pleasant paddle in the warm evening sunshine, and some fun rock hopping along the shoreline.

On the return journey, we met a couple of paddlers, heading out. She was clearly a beginner, and he was intent on fishing. They were somewhat further apart than you would have expected.

Do you think we should have told them about the wind?

A Trip of Two Halves

2011-07-05T11:11:00.000+01:00

James was keen to take his esteemed Chinese visitor paddling on the Menai Strait. A combination of work and other commitments presented some logistical problems that were solved by Rich meeting us at Pwll Fanogl.


Annie and James leaving Foel

With hot weather and SW2/3 the trip from Foel to Menia Bridge was a relaxed affair, with wind and tide doing almost as much to push the boats along as muscles. Plenty of birds to look at (Curlew, Oystercatcher, Heron, Shellduck), but very quiet otherwise. I wonder how Plas Menai survives when there seems to be so little going on.

Traditional trip with an extra tea stop for Catherine, visit to the Plas Newydd cave, etc, with Rich's Landrover coming into view about the same time as Nelson.

Pasties, sausages and tea on the beach, then a quick re-arrangement of kit for the return leg.

Wind had been building all the time we were stopped, and of course the tide was now ebbing strongly, so paddling back was a bit wet, but fun - just over 9k in an hour - almost exactly a 5 knot average, and well over the 'speed limit' at Felinheli.

Do SeaKayakers Ferry Glide?

2011-06-26T10:49:00.001+01:00

A couple of spare hours Thursday afternoon - enough time for a quick blast over to Caernarfon - basically a 2km ferry glide against wind (SW4) and tide (Rich's idea, after he realised that we had never visited by kayak) which was a good workout, and blew the cobwebs away.

Did a tour of the harbour (plenty of grockles), and then down to Plas Menai surfing on the following sea, and testing out a prototype paddle:

Yes, it is ugly, and made of scrap (stitch and glue plywood with a bit of mat and resin), but worked very well, and rather proved Robin Ruddock's theory about Irish paddle profiles.

Tea and scones, and some entertainment from beginner windsurfers and sailing instructors, before starting back to Foel with the tide now ebbing and steepening the waves as the wind picked up and gusted more strongly. A familiar effect as South Westerlies are funnelled into the Menai Strait.

Some of the waves were a bit more challenging than others - as Rich said, they seemed to be 'hunting in pairs' - but then, that makes it proper sea kayaking.

About 11km paddled in 3 hours door to door.

Too busy for a race

2011-05-31T12:06:00.000+01:00

Have been very busy in the workshop with paddle orders, and preparing a batch of sticks for Pete Baars new shop in Valley.

Just managed to get out to see the start of the race last week-end, and Catherine took some pictures from the bridge - all in all, a good effort by organisers and participants.

Excellent link on Mark Tozer's blog about how you tell when someone is drowning.

Race pics

Symposium

2011-05-14T11:51:00.000+01:00

Slightly belatedly, some pictures from the Anglesey Symposium.


Anglesey Stick at Porth Dafarch

Much quieter on the beach than previous years, but some familiar stalwarts like Dan from Tiderace


Rich in the Tiderace Xtreme

were in evidence, and a good opportunity to meet some interesting people (for example Robin Ruddock) as well as take a few orders for paddles, and get some feedback on the wobblers.

Monday saw an 'Inuit Games' event


Inuit Games

for which, we had provided a couple of harpoons (with throwing sticks or Norsaqs)


Anglesey Stick Harpoon


Harpoon throwing from a wobbler (I didn't know Colin Charvis was interested in such things)

A strong Easterly wind blew for most of the weekend, so it was possible to be cold and sunburnt at the same time.

The Malltraeth Bore

2011-05-03T13:34:00.001+01:00

You will no doubt have heard fearsome accounts of the Malltraeth Bore*, but we overcame our natural trepidation and attempted the 'Cefni Ascent'.

*Catherine even went to one of his lectures - mind, she did not stay long.

Red or Green

2011-04-26T14:35:00.000+01:00

Recognising your buoys is one thing, knowing what they actually mean might be another.

This is obviously a Port hand buoy - 'can' rather than 'cone' shape, even number and Red (apologies to paddlers in the IALA B region), but am I in the channel, or not (the land is Anglesey, and the 'C' on the buoy is for Caernarfon)?

Answers on a postcard ...........

Good to be paddling in sunshine though not everyone though so.

Probably got the security guard at the Indy excited when this vision came up on his monitor.

Quick nod to Nelson, and then back the way we had come, via the only cave on the trip.

Fame at last

2011-04-14T14:17:00.000+01:00

Spent an unusual but enjoyable time last week being interviewed by Huw Jenkins about Anglesey Sticks. As well as the work on behalf of Radio Wales, Huw was kind enough to put together a promo video.

The weather was not particularly kind, but the lack of wind was very helpful for sound recording quality, and ensuring that the sound recordist and his equipment stayed dry.

Rich kindly provided safety boat cover, and just gets a cameo role in the vid.

SeaSharp

2011-03-19T11:13:00.000Z

There are days paddling your kayak, when you do not feel in the least like a power driven vessel, but in terms of the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea ('IRPCS' or 'Col Regs') - that is what you are - albeit usually one under 7 metres in length.

Do you know how to interpret the lights, shapes, sound signals and behaviour or other vessels, and what rules apply?

Maybe a little Android App can help:

SeaSharp is an interactive learning system for all sea sports enthusiasts and marine professionals. In the UK, it is of particular help to anyone studying RYA courses (Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore, Essential Navigation, Power Boat, Safety Boat, Etc.) and the new theory courses for Sea Kayakers.

SeaSharp helps you to become familiar with:

The pattern of lights shown on vessels at night

The colours and shapes of buoys as seen by day and night, including light patterns

The shapes shown on vessels during the day

How the IRPCS* should be applied to possible collision situations

Sound signals made by vessels in fog and on other occasions

The Beaufort scale, weather symbols and common meteorological terms

The app can be used in pure revision mode, or to display multiple-choice options, with a scoring system – should you stay onshore, or are you “Sea Sharp”.

*International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea

I am an utter fool

2011-02-15T11:37:00.001Z

I find that I am uncomfortable with some of the recent comments that have been made in connection with an incident last year that led to the death of Elizabeth Ashbee.

If you are unfamiliar with the event there is a brief account of the inquest here.

I normally make it a rule not to comment on proceedings in court unless I have been present (the facts as presented are often rather different to the news reports - surely not, I hear you say), but I feel an exception coming on.

Conditions that day were not great (Rich and I postponed our planned trip from Cemlyn to Holyhead and he went walking in the mountains instead), but it was perfectly reasonable to be on the water - indeed many local and visiting kayakers have paddled in such conditions, and some in far worse - 'Utter Fools' according to the coroner - Dewi Pritchard Jones.

We are told that Elizabeth was an experienced paddler, and that three of her group managed to paddle from Rhoscolyn to Porth Trecastell (Cable Bay). We can be pretty sure that the trip was demanding with very strong gusts of wind and a confused sea. In such conditions, it is relatively easy to become separated from ones paddling companions, and much easier to carry on to a safe haven than to stop - particularly if conditions seem to be getting worse.

Much has been made of the party's lack of communications equipment. Place yourself at the scene, and have a think about how happy you would be to let go of your paddle for a while (did someone say 'raft up') - to use a mobile phone (reception poor along most of this bit of coast), a VHF (you might just reach the coastguard or get a mayday relay from some vessel closer to you) or pull out and operate a flare - and this is when you do not know that anything has actually gone wrong.

Some other commentators have questioned the groups experience and qualifications. I am reminded of the advice from motoring organisations a few winters ago - that only drivers with experience of ice and snow should venture out......

One final point. If Elizabeth was an 'Utter Fool' (I suspect then, that I am one as well) she paid the ultimate price, and in my opinion was entitled to do so without censure.

Wobble round the edges of Wales

2011-02-01T15:31:00.000Z

As promised, the 'Wobbler Extreme' is now available - basically an ordinary wobbler with extra runners.

This gives the options of Easy (Wobbler on a soft surface like a carpet), Medium (Wobbler on a hard surface) and

Tricky (Wobbler on the runners).
Prices and general info on the Anglesey Stick website.

It is that time of year when thoughts turn to going round Anglesey (or maybe the bits you have not done yet), or even round Wales. My choice would be in a sea kayak, but Mark Newton is having a go on his mobility scooter, so if you can lend a hand in anyway I am sure he would like to hear from you.

Greenland Wobbler

2011-01-18T16:50:00.000Z

There is an old joke - "In which month do the Irish consume the least amount of Guinness" (see below). January always seems a long month to me - the evenings are drawing out slowly, but it is easy to find yourself in front of the television, and by tradition January is dry in our household - surprising quite how much television is totally unwatchable without alcohol.

One bit of watchable television is Bruce Parry's latest effort

Arctic with Bruce Parry

Towards the end of the program, you can see some Greenlandic kids using wobblers while practising their shooting (does that make them shooting sticks?)

The board in the picture neatly demonstrates the design dilemma - an unstable board is good at testing your balance, but you cannot edge, and it is less good at developing core strength. A stable board does not get you working hard enough on the balance elements.

Enter our latest design, the wobbler extreme, which lets you experience the best of both worlds. Details on the website soon.

February.

Newborough snow park

2010-12-21T11:33:00.000Z

Sometimes the elements are really more suited to something other than kayaking. With local temperatures below minus 10, the snow has stayed in good condition, so what do you do?

Get a lift in Rich's landrover to the top of the forest track

Take some enthusiastic people, and ski to the sea

It was uphill on the way back of course (have you noticed that it nearly always is uphill on the way back from the sea?)

But the entrance to the beach was worth a couple more goes (even for those with replacement knees and hip)

Now, I suppose it is back to the workshop as I have a stick and a wobbler to make.

Ice to be beside the seaside

2010-11-30T11:56:00.000Z

You may have noticed that it is decidedly chilly out at the moment - not really sea kayaking weather - so we (usual suspects, plus Rod from Sea Kayak Milos) left a snow strewn Newborough beach yesterday for a short bimble up the coast, hiding to some extent from the North Easterly wind. The air temperature was just above freezing and with some sun, almost the same as paddling in Greece - actually it was pretty cold, and got colder still as we headed over to Pen-y-Parc.

Where some of the sand was frozen, and there were plenty of icicles on the cliff.

Quick bite to eat and some tea - too cold to hang around for long, so back across the mouth of the Malltraeth estuary where the wind had got up a bit and was attacking the extremities somewhat - still the view of the mountains was pretty inspiring

and we were soon back at Newborough. About 13k paddled.

The cold had a pretty detrimental effect on picture quality except for this next one (taken by accident) - kind of arty don't you think?

Under the weather

2010-11-10T15:46:00.002Z

Good short paddle, rock-hopping around Llanddwyn in some autumn sunshine - and home by 11am.

TV forecast was for SW 3 or 4 and the inshore waters forecast looked like this:

Wind
    Northwest backing south or southwest 3 or 4, occasionally 5, increasing 7 to severe gale 9 later.
Sea State
    Moderate, becoming rough later.
Weather
    Fair, then rain, squally showers later.
Visibility
    Good, becoming moderate or poor later.

Not very encouraging, particularly at this time of year, but maybe you have to look a little closer at the weather pattern sometimes - here are some pictures from the trip:

Ok, it was a little rougher on the Northern side of the island (great visibility - you could see spray from the waves hitting Rhoscolyn Beacon), with more swell, but still fairly calm really.

Here are two synoptic charts - what we were experiencing:

and the start of what was coming:

Whither shall we wander?

2010-11-02T14:00:00.000Z

I have been working on some trip planning software for kayaking off the coast of Anglesey. You know the problem - you can get out for a few hours tomorrow, or sometime over the weekend, but where to go given the tide times and likely weather?

The program instructions are simple enough:

Enter the time for 'High Water Dover' for the relevant day (Click [Easy Tide] to use the Admiralty Tidal prediction service) - remember to add daylight saving if appropriate.

Enter wind strength and direction. Click [Met Office] for an explanation of the Beaufort wind scale, and on the same page a link to the Inshore Waters forecast
Enter Start and Stop times (HH:MM) for your paddling 'window' - the program defaults to Dawn to Dusk
Choose the type of trip - Linear (one way) or Return, and a maximum trip length
Click [Matching Trips]

and it produces a screen like this

With basic details about trip timings, possible hazards, facilities, etc

The program can also display a graphical representation of tidal flow around the island

If you would be interested in a copy of the program, just email me kayak@adit.co.uk and I will send you a link to the download.

Although the program seems to work well, it is at beta test stage, and may contain errors of fact as well as logic, and has only a limited number of routes.

All feedback welcome.

Drowning in Ignorance

2010-10-30T15:43:00.001+01:00

I am fully in favour of lone paddling, and like to paddle by myself sometimes. At other times, it is relatively easy to become sufficiently separate from fellow paddlers either by design or accident to be effectively paddling alone.

In these circumstances, we probably owe a responsibility to ourselves and our loved ones (and sometimes our fellow paddlers) to be able to recover from a capsize. Of course you may be someone who is so expert at re-entry and roll that you can easily enter your cockpit and attach your spraydeck underwater, and roll up, but ....

can you do it in the sort of conditions that would cause you to capsize, and if you did not get all the water out of your boat before you rolled up, how likely are you to capsize again?

A friend who has a very reliable roll, and has practised re-entry and roll extensively, capsized in the sea early this year and found the shock of the cold water sufficient to ensure that his brain could only tell him one thing - 'get out of the kayak'. Luckily, he was not paddling alone.

Probably, the only real alternative is assistance from a paddle float (if you can do a ladder rescue reliably in rough conditions, I take my hat off to you), but we all know the problems - slow to deploy (especially if you have to inflate the float) - does not offer much support if you just stuff the paddle under the deck elastics - uses the one piece of equipment that you would like to have to hand once you are back in the cockpit - still the spraydeck and pumping to do, don't forget.

My personal solution:

Modified old paddle and foam paddle float 'parked' ready for action

Just about allows access to rear hatch (note control line leading forward)

Simple technology - just bits of rope - but a strong and flexible joint

The float deployed.

Standard re-entry via rear deck - feet on the float - roll over as you slide into the cockpit. Pump out, spraydeck on, release the line, and get paddling (the float just settles back beside the hull for now)

Known disadvantages:

Only deploys on one side of the kayak
Some limitation on what else can be carried on the rear deck
Has to be fitted to the kayak - even if only in a low tech way
Small amount of extra windage

Tired? not these boys

2010-10-12T13:57:00.002+01:00

Horrible weather, but nice people last Friday at the Indefatigable. Conditions not too encouraging in terms of trying out a completely different sort of paddle, but there were a few brave souls:

note the ubiquitous John Willacy representing Rockpool

Catherine had organised Anglesey Stick polo shirts

which were a good combination with shorts - more or less what everyone else was wearing, as you can see from the first picture.

In the relative warm and dry, sharing an equipment store with Surflines there were lots of volunteers for the wobblers.

One or two tried more than just sitting on the thing, but little did they know what standard would be set the next day in Dolgellau

Isthmus be Llanddwyn

2010-09-28T11:09:00.001+01:00

First a picture from last week (Malltraeth at half tide)

Slightly better conditions this Sunday at Newborough

and enough tide to cross the neck of the island?

Well, just enough with a little help from the knuckles.

As is often the case with a Northerly wind, more swell than is at first apparent, with the double well out of the water as it took a wave on the Malltraeth side of the 'gap'. Then round the island to picnic back on the South side.

Only one seal for company, and no dolphins.

Caught a perfect wave to surf back onto the beach

Just the carrying left to do.

Wet behind the ears

2010-09-21T13:42:00.000+01:00

Emma was super keen to give her visitors a taste of sea kayaking, so attempting to ignore the wind (SW4/5/6) and wet (face stinging), we paddled a small part of the Malltraeth estuary on Saturday.

Even in poor conditions, this venue is normally safe for beginners (provided you keep away from Lumley Bank), and at half tide the sandbanks give some respite from the full force of the wind.

Kimberley was doing well in the front of the double with Rich as the power unit, and Stuart was soon making progress once we had cured the wobbles.

Cue visit from William Wales's Big Yellow Taxi - guess they wanted to see who was daft enough to be paddling in the prevailing weather ....

Meanwhile the Wobblers are multiplying.

Wobbler at Plas Y Brenin

2010-09-15T09:27:00.000+01:00

Well, time to announce the Anglesey Wobbler as a product.

A Kayak/Greenland balance stool that helps improve core muscle strength and of course balance - seriously good fun.

Full details at The Anglesey Wobbler

Rich managed to get a few people using a wobbler at the North Wales Outdoor Partnership do at Plas Y Brenin.

This is us having a great time at the event.

Whether Window

2010-09-07T11:14:00.000+01:00

The forecast was SE4/5 becoming SE5-7 which was not all that encouraging. Tim phoned mid morning to see if I was still intending to paddle as it was truly horrible up at his place. Suggested we took a look late afternoon, and went for a walk if discretion seemed the better part.

Launching from Foel, it was only blowing 3/4 on the nose as we set off for the Caernarfon shore, and without much fetch the waves were small enough, so it was a quick blast across to some quiet water - being enjoyed by this fellow.

Easy paddling down (Northeast) to the Plas Menai slip.

Tea and pasties, then over to the Anglesey shore via some rather more testing water, and a near perfect surf on a glassy standing wave - just like in kayaking videos - well alright, about a quarter the size.

Then eddy hopping back to Foel with the wind increasing all the time. Waves on the beam beginning to threaten (big slaps on the boat, and a wet port hand oxter), but the greatest risk was the wind snatching at your paddle - unless you were using a stick, of course.

Big gust of wind pushed us onto the beach, and signalled the start of much worse conditions for anyone staying on the water.

About 8k paddled.

Not such a swell time

2010-08-31T12:12:00.000+01:00

The thing about paddling on the sea is - it is never quite what you were expecting. The plan (yes we still have them) was to paddle Cemlyn to Holyhead, taking advantage of the calm conditions, but we had heard that there was a kayaker missing after the bad weather on Sunday.

Phoned the coastguard to offer our services, expecting to be told that the last thing they needed was some bungling amateurs, but they were very grateful, so Rich and I set off part way down the Malltraeth estuary intending to go up the coast as far as Rhosneigr.

Conditions were calm, warm and sunny, but we knew there was still some swell out there somewhere, as you could see the white flashes on 'Lumley Bank' (see far left of picture)

and spray leaping over the end of Llanddwyn.

Despite the potential seriousness of the task, the paddling was idyllic apart from the strain on your neck of looking back into all the small bays and inlets that you pass.

The swell was beginning to make its presence known as we rounded the headland and headed for Pen Y Parc, and added piquancy to our beach landing in front of the inshore lifeboat (on its way South).

Fortified by pasties and tea we launched into the now dumping surf - slightly early (after a big set) in my case ..... must have looked exciting from the beach, but I only got wet.

Quick blast across to Llanddwyn (still enough swell to hide other vessels - that is why you can't see any)

then round the corner to the peace and quiet of Pilot's cove....

and time to phone for a pick up from Traeth Niwbwrch. About 15k paddled, but no sign of Elizabeth Ashbee or her kayak.

Not so dire straits

2010-08-19T10:29:00.001+01:00

Catherine has been wanting to paddle the bit of the Menai Strait from Beaumaris to Menai Bridge for a long time - so, as she was about to go into YG for total knee replacement, we thought Sunday was the ideal opportunity.

Weather was pretty dull at first, but began to brighten as we passed Bangor Pier.

and was very warm and sunny by the time we got to Porth Daniel.

Butties and tea (I know, this is a regular theme), and then a relaxed paddle through the swellies (it is all in the timing) and up the strait to Moel Y Don.

Couple of interesting moments with various powered craft who did not seem to have much of a grasp of the IRPCS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).

About 12k paddled.

Later, time to sit round the recycled hot water cylinder.

Rich pickings

2010-08-12T16:27:00.000+01:00

Only Rich was available for a paddle last Saturday, and he opted for Trearddur Bay to Rhoscolyn - a pleasant evening bimble down the coast with following wind and mostly favourable tide (even though its general trend was in the opposite direction, on flood).

Surprisingly lumpy in some spots (hence no photos en route), but fun nonetheless - though we chickened out of some of the rock hopping (no helmets being our excuse).

Fine and calm at Rhoscolyn:

Balancing work and play

2010-07-27T12:17:00.000+01:00

A combination of strong winds, availability of kayaking partners, and other commitments seems to have meant that I have spent far too much time off the water over the last few weeks.

Much of that time has been spent in the workshop making paddles (can't really complain at this), but it did occur to me that if I was just sitting around sometime, I could maybe sit on a Greenland Balance Stool.

This is the prototype made from Japanese oak - which was a windowsill in its last incarnation (and an expensive packing case before that).

Seems to work pretty well for me, but Catherine and Emma think it is too easy to balance - but then, they tend to find most seakayaks relatively stable.

Is it a commercial product, and if so, at what price?

Underwear the bridge goes

2010-06-29T10:06:00.000+01:00

Construction now has its own blog at Anglesey Boat

Usually, arranging a trip for more than two boats, is a guarantee of a slow start to the day, but everyone was early in terms of collecting kit and kayaks, and we rather beat the tide to Gallows Point - still, good to have a relaxing start.

Bimbled along in the direction of Menai Bridge.....

past this house that we once thought of buying - well just the old bath-house in the middle really - wonder how high the tide gets on a big spring?

Heading into Menai Bridge, and although we are still early in terms of the tide, you could be forgiven for thinking that it had already changed (look at the way the boats are lying).

Traditional stop for tea at Porth Daniel - with an extra treat from Tim of Ice-creams.

Lots of jelly-fish in the straits, and one rather large fellow (Lion's Mane?) next to our boats.

Met John Willacy on his way back from playing on the Swellies wave, who mentioned that the bridge was festooned with bras as part of a fundraiser for MacMillan Cancer Support.

As we paddled abreast of the bridge, you could see what was suspended there

Relaxed lunch stop East of Nelson, then rode the tide all the way to Foel - it was like paddling in the Med, with warm sea, blue skies and good company. James had not been in a kayak for about 3 years, but easily paddled the 18k.

Sea-sickness can be bullocks

2010-06-18T14:03:00.000+01:00

A casual evening paddle from Cable bay to Aberffraw and back at the end of another hot sunny day - well, that was the plan.

The weather had rather closed in by the time we got to Cable bay

and from the shore, it looked pretty calm. The wind was blowing SE3/4 on the East Coast and SW3 on the West coast. Once we were on the water, the waves seemed to be responding to both, and you had to concentrate to make sure your paddle actually entered the water rather than a hole. Pretty soon Emma was suffering from Sea-sickness (luckily Tim was not on this trip) so when we stopped at 'The Church In The Sea' (St. Cwyfan's) she opted to walk back along the coast via some neat onlookers.

Rich was happy enough to paddle the double by himself, so we set off

The sea was a little calmer a first, but there was quite a big swell running into the beach at Aberffraw. Rich did comment that there was a lot of 'white' flashing along the beach, but I reckoned we could get ashore safely, paddle up the river, and get Emma to come and pick us up. Of course, everything went to plan - the landing was so exciting that Rich reckoned his heart-rate only got back to near normal about half way up the river, and Emma had no phone reception - still, a nice evening for a walk...............

Granny Wales

2010-05-26T16:09:00.000+01:00

Construction now has its own blog at Anglesey Boat

Sunday (23rd) was an odd day that ended well with a casual paddle out to Pilots for a picnic on the beach.

Des (new to kayaking) found the red capella rather twitchy, and did well to stay in the boat and learn to use a stick.

Catherine (first trip since hip replacement) had the luxury of an inboard power unit.

and I was just glad to be on the water.

We toasted 'Granny Wales' with champagne (thanks Emma)

before eating burgers and sausages courtesy of Des.

Very calm conditions on the return trip, with the moon reflected in the sea.

A special evening, in a special place - and time for private thoughts ....

Mist the tide

2010-05-24T14:42:00.000+01:00

Planned a trip suitable for beginners this week - Traeth Lligwy to Moelfre and back (about 8k) - very sheltered with a light SW wind. Nice sunny day when we left home, but misty at Lligwy.

In the event, we ended up with no beginners, and rather late leaving the beach, but it was easy and relaxed, if a little spooky feeling, on the way to Moelfre lifeboat station

Stopped on the old lifeboat slip - there is a yacht anchored behind me in this picture

which we only noticed when the mist lifted for a while.

Still, good enough venue for tea and butties.

Introduced Will (trainee outdoor pursuits instructor - who only just fitted in the stealth boat) to paddling with a stick on the way back

Talking of such things, this is Rui in Portugal with his new Anglesey Stick

We paid the price for the late start, with the length of the carry back up the beach - whose stupid idea was it to start running?

Sunny but cold at Porth Dafarch

2010-05-04T10:42:00.000+01:00

Spent the bank holiday week-end being simultaneously sun burnt and frozen standing (mainly) on the beach at Porth Dafarch during the Anglesey Seakayak Symposium.

Saturday started off pretty slowly, and I think Mike Webb from Rockpool Kayaks may have been our only visitor

but from Saturday afternoon onwards we were pretty busy, with lots of interest in the sticks, and requests for demonstrations (and a few orders).

It was also good to put a face to a few names (Martin Rickard who is using Anglesey Sticks up in Greenland, and Paul Mattock of Cybi Kayakers) and of course the beach was littered with famous (well, in the world of sea kayaking) faces.

and meet some more of the kayak retailers (Nigel seemed to 'never stop' working for Tiderace)

Quite a few paddlers this year who had made their own sticks, or who had at least bought the wood ready ..............

Got a chance to show off the double on Monday afternoon.

and have been convinced to offer the design (compact double) as a bespoke build - details to follow.

Even the beach warden is a kayaker who wants to try a stick.......

Anglesey Symposium Sticks in the Mud

2010-04-29T15:19:00.000+01:00

I have been a bit sloooow putting anything on the blog this week.

Work continues on Stick Cottage, and I have been getting some paddles ready for the Anglesey Symposium.

Weather looks a bit mixed for the week-end, but you should be able to find us on Porth Dafarch beach on Sat/Sun/Mon - depending a little on how much beach there will be at high tide.

Had a surprisingly relaxed trip with young/newbies last week - 10 boats on the water which is a record for us.

Quite an early stop along the Malltraeth estuary.

Tim got the stove going for tea and sausages.

and the weather was kind

even if the tide ran out a little too quickly resulting in a muddy landing.
Young paddlers did well, particularly Elin and Aled.

Stick Cottage

2010-04-12T10:58:00.000+01:00

A perfect week-end for paddling, so instead of being on the sea, I was working on Stick Cottage.......

The Stick Cottage website is nearly complete, but there are still a few jobs to do on the building - mainly decoration and finishing.

In addition to the accommodation, we will offering a pick-up service for kayakers and walkers, and the chance to borrow an Anglesey Stick, so if you are thinking of walking the coastal path, or paddling round the coast - Stick Cottage could be your ideal base.

Sea Kayak Sunday

2010-03-24T11:26:00.001Z

Construction now has its own blog at Anglesey Boat

Anglesey is known as a bit of a Mecca for sea kayakers, am I am frequently surprised at how few paddlers are actually on the water - particularly during the winter months. If you exclude the bit of coast between Trearddur Bay and Porth Dafarch, it seems to have been pretty quiet.

Of course some stalwarts will have been out and about - Justine and Alun, and John Willacy, and no doubt some others, but it has felt as if we have had the island to ourselves.

This all changed on Sunday (21st) - first of all with a friendly exchange with some kayakers going the opposite way to us as we headed for Beaumaris, and then finding 9 boats on the foreshore at Gallows Point, where we were dropped off at the water's edge thanks to Rich's Landy.

Launched into the chop where the forecast S4 was giving SW4/5 against the tide – hence a bit of work to do for at least the first kilometre or so.

Round the corner on the way to the gazelle came across two of Roger’s boats with one paddler obviously rather more experienced than the other.

Conditions eased somewhat as we headed for Menai Bridge.

and it was soon time for a tea stop at Porth Daniel.

Once the tide has slackened, we headed through the suspension bridge and then met 13 kayakers including one paddling with a stick (Mark) who had launched at Port Dinorwic. Forgot to ask,but suspect this group was North West Sea Kayakers.

It was very quiet in the Swellies, and here is Rich holding on to the Swelly Rock Perch (a south cardinal mark).

Heading for the 'new' bridge, we met 3 more kayakers including another experienced paddler.

Lunch on the mainland side – pasty and beans – a bit calmer for a while here until the tide really got going.

Paddled up to PD then a quick blast through the lumpy stuff to Moel Y Don (Plas Coch).

Where we saw these two old wooden boats (both with stripped decks).

Cutting commentary

2010-03-10T12:03:00.000Z

Whether influenced by years of outdoor activity, or perhaps just my generation, I usually carry a knife. In the current era of moral panics, this is not fashionable, but I suspect most kayakers reading this have at least a knife as part of a normal emergency kit - probably stuffed in the front of their PFD.

I carry one of the common cheap brands (typhoon), and have never used it - but in theory one day it will be needed to cut me free from my paddle leash.

My penknife is rarely not on my person (basically just at airports) and, in contrast, is used frequently. Last week - walking part of the Anglesey Coastal Path, to free a pregnant ewe from a tangle of brambles, but usually for rather more mundane tasks. Out walking, I often also carry one or more walking poles - with tungstone carbide tips - guess which would make a decent offensive weapon.

I have been entertained by the publicity given to the achievements of Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton who has kayaked 'solo' down the Amazon and, in the process, broken two 'world records' - Australia must be much smaller than I thought.

Rich pickings

2010-02-23T13:38:00.002Z

Construction now has its own blog at Anglesey Boat

Rich needed to log some trip planning for his next qualification, so Tim and I were treated to a mystery outing last Sunday. Leaving a car at Moelfre, we were guided round the coast to Porth Eilian

Boat loading and personal kit transformation from normal clothes to the ridiculous number of layers you seem to need at this time of year was accomplished fairly quickly, though no doubt Rich looked at his watch a few times....

and we were soon heading out of the bay.

Once we were near Lynas, Rich could relax a little - his timing was spot-on, and we were able to benefit from the last of the flood....

all the way round the corner...

(must visit the 'hermit's' cave here - presumably an old Adit)

and down to Ynys Dulas

Where we got rather too much attention from the seals (the largest male I have ever seen stayed ashore, thankfully)

some of which followed us to Traeth Lligwy....

where we had a tea stop before cruising down to Moelfre.

About 12k paddled in slightly miserable weather, but good company.

What are you going to tell the coroner - part three

2010-02-16T13:48:00.001Z

Construction now has its own blog at Anglesey Boat

I think the important thing to note at this point, is that Dave is vocal and complaining. Coughing up blood can be very serious, but more or less the same symptom can result from blasting the nasal membranes with saline jet-wash.

I carry a (thankfully) large paddling jacket in my front hatch (one that will fit over my buoyancy aid), and Dave was able to get this on under his own PFD and jacket, and as a consequence downgrade his F cold back to B cold. Shame we did not have hot tea, or the stove.....

Time to be cruel to be kind, and get Dave working with a long boat drag over the sand spit to a safer launch spot - at least he had the lightest kayak - but still painful progress initially.

Back on the water he cheered up a bit, and was soon paddling well, but after about 500m was suddenly hit by exhaustion (delayed shock?). Rich took on the towing duties, while I was in the novel position of keeping Dave talking (I never thought I would say that) and paddling for the rest of the short trip back to Malltraeth.

The only real casualty of the day was a bag of apples, but it could all have been a lot easier with say a group shelter, and the stove.

We all like the sea because it is unpredictable. Trips at the same location can be very different due to varying tide and wind conditions. You don't really know what to expect, so maybe just take all the kit?

When you are on the water as part of a small group of paddlers, you can become the de facto group leader without warning .......... are you ready?

What are you going to tell the coroner - part two

2010-02-09T11:51:00.001Z

Construction now has its own blog at Anglesey Boat

In rescue situations, there is often a fine line between prompt and decisive action, and having a bit of a think. This was not a standard deep water rescue, and two outcomes looked more likely than a successful recovery of paddler and boat - injuring the casualty through collision, and taking a swim myself. This thinking looked even better in retrospect when it turned out I was the only person not swimming at this moment.

I was getting used to the breaking waves, and was fairly content to stay close and provide moral support when Dave asked for a tow. Luckily, my tow line was behind my seat under my spraydeck (I don't think it would have been much use) which only left one option. With an upwind approach, I managed to turn on a smaller wave and drop the stern of my boat into Dave's very welcoming hands.

Now Dave is not a small chap, and remember he was still holding on to his own water-filled boat. The paddling was interesting - rapid acceleration with each breaking wave and me paddling as hard as possible (no worries about broaching with such a good drogue), and then an abrupt halt as the wave passed - but we were making real progress.

At this point, my footrest failed on the left side, but on a more promising note, Rich arrived and took care of the water-logged boat, so our speed improved and Dave was soon able to walk ashore.

Still had to concentrate a little as the surf landing was not all that friendly - but soon near enough to Dave to hear him comment that he was coughing up blood and freezing cold.

What now?

What are you going to tell the coroner - part one

2010-02-02T14:10:00.000Z

When I was an outdoor pursuits instructor in the 1980s there was a popular phrase (see title) that we like to think could help you decide on the balance between real risk and perceived risk.

Most outdoor pursuits (or at least, as they are presented to beginners) have a relatively high perceived risk, but a low actual risk. For most participants, the journey to and from the activity will have carried rather more real risk, and serious injury is rare.

Sometimes things do go wrong, and I was recently reminded that you can end up being responsible for others even when you are not coaching or instructing.
This will also be the time when you have left some kit behind.

It was a calm day, and we had planned a short bimble down the Malltraeth estuary.

After a stop for apples at Tim's beach, where we found we had no tea (I had left behind a drybag with my flask, woolly hat, towel, etc), we continued down the estuary.

Despite the calm conditions, there was a strange mini tide race for our entertainment - enough to get you wet, but unlikely to throw you out of the boat - though Dave wisely kept well clear of the worst (later learned that there was good surfing on The Lleyn from a very regular swell).

On the South side of the estuary on the 'corner' that leads to Llanddywn, the aforementioned swell was producing some significant surf, and Rich was keen to go play.

On the edge of the breaking waves, there were some good opportunities, and I had caught a couple of rides when Rich went past like a steam train on a wave that took him for several hundred yards.

I was just considering how to introduce Dave to assisted passage making, when he also went past - not on the edge of the surf, but deep in the middle of it - first on a wave, then broadside to a wave, and then inevitably, under a wave.

He executed a pretty swift wet exit, and managed to grab his hat as well as keep hold of paddle and boat, and was left standing in about half a fathom of water that was B cold apparently (later upgraded to F cold).

I shouted that he should make his way ashore, and I would come and help him empty his boat.

Two steps shoreward, and he fell into a big hole, and on resurfacing was hit by two or three sets of breaking waves. He was doing his best to swim in the right direction, but making very little progress towing an excellent sea anchor (kayak with too much water in).

What now?

Back in the pool

2010-01-26T11:39:00.002Z

Construction now has its own blog at Anglesey Boat

Pool session last week (PYB) - the first for 3 years, and boy did it feel like it.

First couple of rolls worked fine (which was reassuring), but mostly downhill from then until near the end of the session when everyone was rolling fairly efficiently.

Well, someone has to supervise...

Quite forgotten how tiring throwing yourself upside-down gets. Still good to get the practice in relatively warm water.

Rich holding two sticks for the lesser spotted orange dolphin to jump through (or maybe I spent too long under water)

Breaking the ice - a woolly hat paddle

2010-01-05T10:43:00.001Z

The plan was simple - put in at the old mermaid (Foel) and paddle round the corner and up the Braint to the stepping stones for brunch, and then paddle back.

The plan was nearly scuppered by the quantity of ice on the road down to Foel, but there was enough sunshine to compensate for the cold ambient air (-5).

Emma had some concerns about our newbie paddler, but the water temperature was sufficient threat to ensure that he stayed in his boat (actually Tim's boat).

and he was paddling well by the end of the trip.

Fine trip in bright sunshine and good company with a few surface ice-floes to break through (less than a similar trip last year). Slightly embarrassing when we realised that we were nearly in Dwyran and had missed the stepping stones altogether - but then, they seem to have disappeared...... and whats a couple of k between friends?

Emma reckons that one of the advantages of a double kayak is being able to drink tea 'en passage'

Great views of the mountains on the return trip.

But the temperature was already dropping quickly - so we freeze-dried the kit.

Sea, Sun, Sand - life's a beach

2009-12-15T14:42:00.000Z

This time of year it can be difficult to get tide, time and weather all on your side - so two out of three was not bad with bright sunshine all day on Saturday. The tide was missing, and we seemed to walk nearly as far as we paddled, but a good first trip for Dave

who took to the somewhat unusual combination of a Europa kayak (think outdoor centres in the last century) with a clip-on skeg, and an Anglesey Stick.

Heading out along Llanddwyn - note the stabilisers/sponsons on my boat ....

we were joined by an extra paddler ......... neat launch.

Now, why is it that when a group of kayakers land on a beach (this is Pilot's Cove), one of them always lands away from everyone else?

Hard to believe that it is the 12th of December - picnic on the beach with fried sausages on the 'ghastly' plate, and lashings of tea, before paddling round the island to the usual surf landing.

Quick portage over the isthmus and here we are ready for the home leg.

A trip to Menai Bridge (Porthaethwy) to visit Emma instead of Nelson

2009-12-07T12:10:00.000Z

The forecast was not great (SW4/5 with gusts to 35 knots), but cabin fever had been growing for some time ..........

Saturday's tide was always going to be big - 3 days after the full moon + a low pressure system + several days of wind from the SW so every chance of reaching Church Island in Menai Bridge if we timed it right.

Anyway, left The Mermaid (Foel) at about 10.15 - weather a bit gloomy, and a quartering sea which made for some interesting paddling.

Rich had opted for a paddle in the stealth boat

which is rather low on volume for him, and this combined with a partly open rear hatch, found him paddling with the back deck under water by the first stop. Still, it was time for a cup of tea anyway.

Better conditions as we neared Plas Newydd

(and yes, I am facing the wrong way in a shameless display of the Anglesey Stick website address)

Wind was gusting hard as we passed Nelson, and went under the Britannia Bridge - couple of groups from Plas Menai (power boat) enjoying their lunch, and we were beside the Church Island causeway in no time.

It is not very often that this is a convenient get out, but it was a high tide

Emma managed the trip from her back door to meet us (about 50 metres) and stand in the rain for a while, and admire the rainbows

There was still plenty of water, but we were a bit late leaving in terms of the strength of the tidal flow which made for somewhat challenging conditions near the bridge - Rich demonstrated how to break in and out of various whirlpools - or at least that is his story.

Through the bridge the water was doing a passable imitation of Penhryn Mawr, so we slogged over to the mainland shore to hide from the worst of the wind.

Fairly straightforward to Port Dinorwic (Y Felinheli), and a break for tea and a pasty just East of the Plas Menai slip, then kept to the Caernarfon shore until we could spot a reasonable line back to Foel. Conditions had deteriorated a bit with driving rain and spray and a darkening sky, and Rich found the left side of his face had gone numb, so glad enough to reach the beach.

About 23k paddled.

Caernarfon bar the weather

2009-11-24T14:23:00.000Z

Just been for a walk along Newborough beach (Traeth Niwbwrch). Lots of ravens (50+) enjoying the updraft as the wind hits the edge of the dunes. At least the sea was rough enough to explain why I have not been in a kayak for a while.

Conditions have not been kind to the outer starboard bar buoy (C1), which has a temporary new home on the beach.

Commando Kayaking part two - getting to the pudding beach

2009-11-03T16:27:00.000Z

The basic idea is simple enough - go kayaking without using a motor vehicle, and you will no doubt have been enthralled by my previous post

Today is all about the practicalities of towing your kayak with a bicycle. The obvious approach was to look on the web (JFGI) for a possible method (you don't always want to reinvent the wheel), and see what could be created from scrap lying around .

Google had plenty of hits, and most solutions looked something like this:

picture courtesy of Tony's Trailers in BC, Canada

Two things come to mind when you look at the picture - do you need a bar running down the length of the kayak? and maybe the hitch is too high on the bike for stability/flexibility? - think motorbike and sidecar.

I already had a trolley with road wheels that could be fixed fairly securely to the kayak with standard tape 'roofrack' straps - surely all I needed was something simple at one end of the kayak to connect it to the bike?

A piece of plywood, a couple of brackets, and a bungee - simple but effective.

The tow is surprisingly positive, and the bungee allows enough movement for cornering though you have to remember how long the bike/kayak combination is, and not cut corners.

Other road users seem to keep well clear (occasional applause), and as far as I can find out, there is no restriction on bicycles towing trailers.

Does anyone think the bracket would be a viable commercial product?
Would you buy one?
Likely price range?

Making the double

2009-10-27T11:54:00.000Z

By popular demand, some info and picks about making the double kayak.

I started by ordering plans for the Chesapeake Double, but was advised that it was really a lake tourer for 'Fat Americans' - stereotype or tautology depending on your point of view, and that I should consider the Sport Tandem instead.
Unfortunately, the plans revealed that this was too long to fit in the workshop, and so with some trepidation, I decided to have a go at adapting a design in 'The New Kayak Shop' by Chris Kulczycki. Essentially it is a cut and shut design, stretching a Chesapeake by adding about 18 inches of length to the mid-section, while (hopefully) retaining the proven lines. This left some anxiety about exactly where to place the cockpits, and how to arrange the deck line such that the forward paddler was not 'swamped' - hence the 'step'.

Construction pictures:

Canadians

2009-10-24T11:59:00.000+01:00

Took the Canadians - people not boats - for a trip down the Straits in calm and very warm conditions. Tony who is an experienced seakayaker from Salt Spring Island (near Vancouver Island, BC) used an Anglesey Stick for the first time and was an instant convert.

Susan and Tony were both good a finding fossils wherever we stopped, and were impressed by the 'history' emailing this comment once they were back home:

We really enjoyed the paddling trip, we were out of shape, but paddling alongside such history and pageantry is so beyond our scope here that I think of it constantly. Here there is NO history, there it is ALL history. Loved it.

Shots from the trip to visit Nelson (about 20k paddle, but riding the tide, so equivalent to about a 12k trip).

Low key paddling

2009-10-20T10:49:00.000+01:00

Tim only had a couple of hours to spare, but the weather on Saturday was warm with light winds, so we had to get on the water. A trip round Llanddwyn beckoned. Rich and I paddled the double (still in sea trials really), and Tim his Capella on the way out, with Rich and Tim in the double on the way back. Why am I boring you with this detail? - speed versus effort. Without us really noticing until we talked about it later, the doubles pair were gentle cruising most of the time while whoever was in the single was paddling hard to keep up.

Sausages served on 'the plate' and very strong tea courtesy of Tim's trangia, and too many tea-bags. The very observant will notice that the picture is actually from another trip - nobody managed a camera........
Lots of wildlife to look at, particularly seals, though we gave them a wide berth as it is the season for their own wide births.

The stealth boat

2009-10-14T11:44:00.000+01:00

I have been cheering up the 'teach yourself boat-building boat' which looked rather sorry for itself in comparison to the double.
The boat is built from plans for the Chesapeake 16 LT (Light Tourer) from Fyne Boat Kits, very cheap ply, and various scraps of wood that were laying around.
After the first round of construction it looked like this.
Once Catherine paddled it on a reasonable trip (20k), it deserved a make-over, and now looks a little better, if somewhat fishy. Note the sophisticated deck hatch made from a BDH bottle embedded in foam, improved cockpit rim, footrests, etc.

The question now is - what to build next?
and who for?

Anglesey Stick Boat

2009-09-16T11:42:00.000+01:00

One of the minor problems of making Anglesey Sticks has been what to do with all the offcuts of Red Cedar. The answer came in the form of a double seakayak with strip cedar decking.

I will post some pics about its construction, and maybe some arty farty shots of the woodwork on the Anglesey Stick site under features.

Novice paddler

2009-08-24T08:14:00.000+01:00

I am not always that keen to go paddling with a complete beginner - my days as an outdoor pursuits instructor are long gone, but as I have been nagging Tim to get his daughter out paddling, I could hardly refuse. In the event, it was a very pleasant trip along the Menai Strait. Elin used a shortish Anglesey Stick to paddle a 'WildOne' from Wild Things. If you don't know the boat, it is about as close as you can get to a general purpose kayak, but still on the large size for a 9 year old.
Very interesting to watch someone with no paddling experience take so quickly to propelling a plastic kayak so efficiently with a piece of wood - basically, she just got on with it, managing about 4k with a little help from the tide.

Boat Maintenance

2009-07-15T12:23:00.000+01:00

The skeg wire on the red Capella was well and truly bent, and the one on Tim's had not been well for sometime.

Found an article on Repairing a Skeg by Mick Buckley that was very helpful, and included a supplier for the replacement wire. Mostly followed Mick's article, but found that cheap bolt cutters worked fine for cutting the new wire to length.

Next job is replacing the deck elastics which have become tired and emotional.

A lazy week

2009-07-07T11:19:00.000+01:00

Just put some of the Cornwall trip info on SeaKayaker - a few nice pictures, and a bit of text from me about the trips.

One of the trips raised an issue that seems to recur in sea kayaking - how to judge the seriousness of the outing. We were planning a trip from the Camel estuary (near Rock) round Pentire Head, through the Mouls channel to Smugglers' Cove. Looking at South West Sea Kayaking byMark Rainsley, we can see the Camel estuary bit as 'Grade A', and the rest as 'Grade B'. Despite good weather and neap tides, it felt like a 'Grade C' trip - why?

Most of the trip is exposed to the Atlantic swell. This can make the lumpy bit of Pentire head and The Rumps, lumpier still, but more importantly it severely limits the escape routes - particularly the leeward safety net that would otherwise be provided by Polzeath. I suppose if conditions had deteriorated, we would have headed for Port Quin - safe enough, but a painful carry at low tide.

As it was, the weather remained favourable, and it was a very good trip.

I think I have my next 'commando kayaking' trip worked out - though not quite sure how the trolley will handle the sand dunes..........

Commando Kayaking

2009-06-30T12:07:00.000+01:00

I rather like Dubside's attitude to kayaking, and in particular one of his 'rules' for commando kayaking:
"2. Kayaking effected so as to render the automobile superfluous."

It does go against the grain a bit to have to use your car to get out paddling. Not so bad when there are a few of you, but when you are by yourself..........

So, this Sunday, with a great weather forecast and only myself to paddle with, I decided to cycle to the Mermaid (Foel, Anglesey), towing my kayak, paddle down the Menai strait as far as Nelson, and then return with the tide. About 10k of cycling and 20k of paddling. The hardest bit by far being the mainly uphill return journey from Foel to home. Strange how it always seems to be uphill on the way back from the sea.

Towing the kayak (Rainbow, Laser) was suprisingly straightforward. I had looked at a few ideas on the web, and come up with a very simple design for a bracket (piece of plywood) at rear axle level on the bike, connected to the kayak via a couple of bungies.

Of course it would have been a good idea to oil the kayak trolley wheels, and even better if the trolley had proper bearings, but it was a warm summers day and I was not in any hurry. Also the friction did provide some extra control on downhill sections.

My main tip, if you are thinking of trying something similar, would be to keep as much weight (kayaking kit, food, water, etc) as possible directly over the trolley while towing, rather than packed in the way you might for a trip.

Cornwall

2009-06-29T12:23:00.000+01:00

Great visit to Cornwall (based at Gentle Jane in the Camel estuary). 5 trips in 8 days including one of just 4k to the pub for lunch, and 22k out round Pentire head to smugglers' cove.

Conditions good apart from one day, but pretty lumpy around Pentire head and through the Mouls channel. Sea sickness struck one of our group so Rich and I both got some towing practice - much easier than expected with a skinny paddle - but I am beginning to realise that the supposed limitations of Greenland style paddles are mostly in the minds of people that don't use them.

Another example would be launching in surf - now that I have seen four paddlers do this without any problems, I am not sure what the concern is.