Our very own "Sea Kayaking Festival" ...."adventures to make you smile"

Over the first weekend of July a kaleidoscope of kayaks landed on various sandy beaches near Salcombe. This was all part of the club’s second sea kayaking festival, where we stayed at Hope Cove, with its rugged coastline and beaches providing the perfect backdrop for paddling and relaxation. Hope Cove is thought to take its name from the Old Norse word hop, meaning a small bay or inlet, which perfectly captures the area’s natural beauty and sheltered, haven-like feel. Home for the weekend was the ‘pop up’ Cove Camping, where we enjoyed breathtaking views towards Burgh Island and spectacular evening sunsets. (Those who got there early managed to bag the best pitches, sit in a deckchair, and be ready with the mallet or indeed claret! to provide advice and support for later arrivals). The Saturday paddle included some rock hopping, a visit to a beautiful cave with aquamarine waters and afterwards the opportunity to take a swim. Following a busy beginning of the season with various training activities within the club, it really was a wonderful weekend, providing the opportunity to catch up with fellow paddlers and to discuss plans (and of course kit) for the rest of the season. As a side note - I have noticed via the post paddle pictures that Matt has a new VHF radio. Must follow up on that. Thanks to our Sea Kayak leaders, and the leaders in training, for supporting the weekend and a special mention to Mike for walking Bobby the dog over the cliffs, enabling Gill and her family to get time on the water together. Oh, and thanks to Gill for setting up a very civilized Pimm’s station at camp. In summary the trip was attended by 21 paddlers, one dog, who all enjoyed a shared meal at Hope and Anchor! It was one of those weekends where you really do drive home with a smile…. Looking forward to next year already.

Fiona Swan