The photo above shows me at Sandwood Bay, a few miles short of Cape Wrath – Britain’s north west extremity. I waited there for three nights until the wind and surf settled enough to go around the Cape itself.
I’m back home having completed my trip at Dunscanby Head, the far north east corner of the UK mainland. Cape Wrath and the north coast were fantastic – seriously exposed, wild and rugged. Given my earlier good progress I had hoped to get much further but in recent weeks, the weather was hopelessly windy, and I spent more time ashore than paddling. Blame El Nino apparently, it has meant that for the second summer running, the Jet Stream has lurked unusually far south over the UK, creating prolonged lousy weather. My eventual progess was 557 miles over 25 days of paddling, with day paddles ranging from 8 to 35 miles. I’ve covered all of Scotland’s west and north coasts, which without a doubt offers some of the finest sea paddling to be had anywhere.
I’ve had a completely marvellous trip, experiencing some wonderful places and taking away some amazing memories. All good.
Nice one! Looks like a superb trip. Are you going to stop pottering about and get back in a proper little plastic tub now?
Not sure I’ll know how to paddle anything difficult now – all I’ve done for 99% of the summer is point at the horizon and go …
Mark
That’ll do fine for most UK stuff then!
Bloody well done old chap!
Looking forward to being bored senseless with all the amazing photos.
Sterling effort Mark! Down hill from here next holidays?
Teaching sure has its perks – know of any openings?
Well done Mark, looks and sounds like an awesome trip. Enjoyed following your progress over the Summer!
Did the conditions asked for any cross-bow rudders?
What a brilliant trip, in some very taxing conditions. I am glad you enjoyed it!
)
I think you are mad!! However good effort. The East Coast southwards has some impressive parts too. Is that your next mission?