Cape Town Kayak

We are famous!!!!

2012-01-30T17:07:00.001+02:00

A friend in London sent me this picture taken on the underground.

UNSOLICITED E MAIL

2012-01-25T11:02:00.000+02:00

I received an e mail the other day from someone called Zegul Marine. Have no idea where they got my e mail address (could be from this Blog...). Anyway I append the URL for those who are interested. No idea who this crowd is and I don't have the time to mine down through the confusing "website" but a little bird in the know whispered that one should be careful about the quality of some products...

The UR is http://issuu.com/zegulmarine.com/docs/zegul

regards

Dolphin Pictures

2012-01-10T15:33:00.000+02:00

It's been a while since we have had anything interesting trip reports to post so I though I would share these dolphins pictures. Who doesn't love dolphins after all, and dolphins and kayaks, well....

These above three were taken by me from up the mountainside a little at Murdoch Valley
Simon's Town of a passing surfskier who had a fantastic time with these dolphins,
who played alongside him for 15 minutes or so. A very lucky man.

These next three pictures were also taken by me while paddling off Seapoint

ZANDVLEI - OVERLOOKED?

2011-11-14T14:53:00.000+02:00

I was told long ago that this is the last functioning Estuary in The Peninsula - maybe that that's the Western Cape - I hope not.

Be that as it may I may appreciate this water body more as it is accessible from my garden by Kayak, Sursfski, Rowing Boat - anything with a shallow enough draft to enter Zandvlei proper from The Westlake River. I use my Plastic Perception sit - on - top or The Ski.

Zandvlei is the perfect locale for a bit of fitness straining when the weather has you nervously looking at The Bay. It is completely safe and the biggest danger is the odd errant Kite or Windsurfer crossing the main body of The Vlei from the Sailing Club and back. The area inside Marina Da Gama is completely sheltered and as flat as a pancake even in a gale. An added advantage is a friend with a well stocked bar and a sundeck on route.

The water is (nowadays) regularly cleaned of the dreaded pond weed which can make paddling difficult especially for the Surf Skis and, to a lesser extent, the K1's, 2's and Kayaks but impossible for those paddle boats. Then again you want to own one of those ridiculous craft then that is your fault- its a bit like owning a Honda (car that is).

For Land Rover owners none of this is a problem. The Water in the main Vlei has a decent swell in a Gale and the birdlife is prolific with The Zandvlei/Tokai Fish Eagles usually in residence.The Carp do tend to jump into your boat though. Land Rover owners eat them alive there and then.

There is plenty of parking and decent launching spots in The Marina and adjacent to The Sailing Club.

As for Toyota Owners - well they'll probably get lost and wont' find any of it. Volvo owners (I only know of one) will shrivel at the idea of water that may not be pristine and will find the trip from Simonstown beyond them and the car. (O dear - gave it away).

Come and join some time.

best regards

Buffels to Simon's Town paddle

2011-10-20T12:34:00.001+02:00

The weather for this Sunday looks great but potentially the 5 to 6 meter swells may be the problem. A possible alternative is to launch at the north slip at Millers and head to Smitswinkel Bay and then run back with the swells to Simons Town.
I will not be able to make this paddle as I am working. If you want to do it please call the shop 786 2626 to let us know so we can plan.

Derek

--------------------------------------------
This paddle scheduled for Sunday 23rd is postponed to the next Sunday due to the windy weather forecast. Also means if you are a rugby fan you can watch the World Cup Final and not miss the paddle :)

Whale Watching from Kayaks

2011-10-10T13:53:00.000+02:00

I agree with Paul, Langebaan is a lovely place to paddle and it's actually not too far away. But what it does not have, and which our home base of Simon's Town has, is this...

There can't be many towns in the world where you can watch whales breaching while paddling in the harbour! Are there?

LANGEBAAN

2011-10-10T11:22:00.001+02:00

It always surprises me that I don't see more Paddlers (Kayakers or Surfskiers) at Langebaan and Saldanha Bay. Without exeception I regularly meet the same people on the water and the vast majority are locals or perhaps, more accurately, weekend Langebaan property owners.

Langebaan has to be one of ( if not the) best Paddling areas in the Country. Theoretically it fulfils all the requirements with none of the "risks" of other locales. If you fall out of your boat in the Lagoon and lose it in a gale force SE all you need to do is float until the tide drops and then walk home! (not quite but almost). There are no fish of the "wrong kind" - the biggest I have seen is a 1.5 metre thresher in the mouth of the lagoon that blissfully ignored everything around him/her. This weekend two endurance swimmers were training off the breakers between the main beach and Mykonos. The biggest thing they met was a surprised seal. In fact I'm not sure if there are many fish at all although a few seals and plenty fisherman.

Paddling is of course easiest in the Lagoon itself but the bay is almost as easy with only a gentle rising swell closer to The Strandloper. The breaks and shore landings can be tricky on the beach between the Groyne and Mykonos (the bay itself) due to the slope of the sea bed. You may get wet if your timing is off.

Accomodation in Langebaan is plentiful although not exactly cheap. There is one good camping facility at Lenjtiesklip. The ablutions have recently been upgraded and the sites have power and water. It does however feel more like (is?) a caravan park than a true campsite like Tietiesbaai at Paternoster. However if you have a "friend" with a plot or house in Churchhaven...

As I say - pity it is not used more by the paddling fraternity. Distance maybe?

regards

Thanks for The Race

2011-10-05T16:18:00.002+02:00

I know that this is a bit belated but many thanks to Margaret and Derek for arranging the race.

regards

Paul Weber

Kayak Race Results

2011-09-26T16:09:00.000+02:00

Start of the race at Long Beach Simons Town

Name	Time	Av speed kph	% of winner

LONG COURSE - 11.7 km
KAYAKS
Derek Goldman	01:12:27	9.7	100%
Ryno Lamont	01:13:26	9.6	101%
Mark Webb	01:17:00	9.1	106%
Basil Thomas	01:19:38	8.8	110%
Anton Kryshaar	01:23:49	8.4	116%
Chris Kruyshaar	01:25:07	8.2	117%
Paul Weber	01:26:04	8.2	119%
Hendrik vd Heever	01:26:57	8.1	120%
Mike van Huysen	01:28:19	7.9	122%
Rob Hewitson	01:29:10	7.9	123%
John Laurence	01:31:29	7.7	126%
Paul Whitmill	01:37:28	7.2	135%
Geordie Kohler (Rowing)	01:40:15	7.0	138%
Willy Steenkamp	01:52:03	6.3	155%
Emile Kruger & Partner	01:22:32	8.5	114%
Jurgen Briegel & Partner	01:50:33	6.4	153%
WOMEN
Viv van der Heyden	01:45:29	6.7	100%

SURFSKIS
Andrew Turner	01:01:45	11.4	100%
Mark Beck	01:02:47	11.2	102%
Paul Jenkins	01:03:04	11.1	102%
Mike Van Wieringen	01:17:12	9.1	125%
Mark Coram (Surfski)	01:17:19	9.1	125%
Wayne Coram (Surfski)	01:19:20	8.8	128%
WOMEN
Kim Kruyshaar	01:29:31	7.8	100%

SHORT COURSE - 6.3 km
KAYAKS
Christo van Schalkwyk	00:49:25	7.6	100%
Dermot Magowan	00:49:29	7.6	100%
Sean Burr	00:50:07	7.5	101%
Marco Schiess	00:50:44	7.5	103%
Roger Steven-Jennings	00:56:28	6.7	114%
Sandy McLea	00:59:46	6.3	121%
Bart McLea	01:00:19	6.3	122%
David Kohler (Rowing)	01:14:03	5.1	150%
Ian Lints & Roger Creswell	00:50:10	7.5	102%
SURFSKIS
Andre/ClaireLaure (Double ski)	00:37:44	10.0	100%
Andrew D'Legg (Surfski)	00:48:08	7.9	128%
Paul Lotter (Surfski)	00:52:12	7.2	138%
Barbara Calothi (Surfski)	00:56:49	6.7	151%

More animal encounters

2011-08-22T17:20:00.000+02:00

I have had two separate interesting encounters in the last week.

The first was near Boulders penguin beach with these harmless sharks:

And then this cormorant decided to use me as a taxi:

How good is Google Earth?

2011-08-02T12:23:00.000+02:00

When Google Earth first came out I was gobsmacked (I was also awestruck but awesome is such an overused word) but heck it is an awesome program - and it's free! People use it all the time now when planning hikes and paddles, two guys paddled the length of the Orange River and collaged together the whole river from Google Earth printouts to help them plan.

Then came Google Street View and people tried to get themselves into these shots or if they were lucky/unlucky were in them anyway. Here's the street view of our jetty where regulars will recognise the blurs that are the card guard and vendors who work there.

Now I imagine few people can say they that they are visible in Google Earth but I am! - well anyway I recognise the smudge that is me but nobody else would! Below is the wide shot of the jetty and yacht club and further below are the blow-ups of the marked rectangles.

The yellow circles highlight two of the white double kayaks we take day trippers on, seen in the top picture, and in the red circle is me leading the group back.

But the point here is not to boast and this post is really all about this last picture.

Behind the kayak you can see some circles which is movement from the paddle strokes in the water! Now that I think is awesome!! And that the use of all these exclamation marks is fully justified!

Another lousy winter day in Cape Town - not :)

2011-07-12T16:15:00.000+02:00

We have had some magnificent winter days here in False Bay and here are some pictures taken on four of them. Click on the pics to enlarge.

Chose not go paddling this day of 20 foot swells and instead went to take
pics of the surfers near Cape Point

...and a Southern Right Whale popped up to check them out

Buffels Bay to Simon's Town - Sunday 12th June

2011-06-08T12:46:00.000+02:00

The forecast as of today, Wednesday, for this Sunday is pretty good so the trip is currently on.

This Sunday we plan to be paddling from Buffels Bay in the reserve to Simon's Town. Meet outside the shop at 8.30am to arrange a car pool.

Peninsula Paddle - Sunday 5 June on World Environment Day.

2011-05-24T14:46:00.002+02:00

From Kim who is coordinating this paddle:

-----------------------------------------

The grand armada of paddlers braving the dawn in support of the Peninsula Paddle need to meet in Muizenberg at the Waterslide car park by 6:45. The paddle starts on the beach at 7:00. So for those who are slow in the early morning cold, better get there earlier than 6:45. The armada will then set off along Zandvlei to where the Sandriver canal enters the vlei. The idea is to provide an escort and to collect floating plastic, mainly bottles, which will be taken to a recycler after the paddle.

Once the Peninsula Paddlers have headed off down the Sandriver canal on their journey to Milnerton, those of us so inclined can explore the Marina Waterways and then stop for a provide your own picnic breakfast on "The Island".

For people allergic to getting up early or who are not keen on a lake trip, the usual paddle at Bertha's will still take place.

Anyone tempted to do the entire route or wanting to rejoin the Peninsula Paddlers for the last leg following the Black River out to sea at Woodstock beach and then coming ashore at Milnerton can click here for details.

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The Peninsula Paddle aims to draw attention to the need for transformation in our waterways: environmentally, socially and politically and will navigate upstream, following the canalised rivers of the Cape Flats that have their mouth in False Bay. Reaching the apex of the watershed, the organisational team will then paddle downstream, following the Black River as it exits into the Atlantic Ocean. The expedition will follow waterways that flow through the most affected watersheds: those that have been canalised, water quality compromised, and in communities most affected by poverty and a rising water table.
Paddlers are invited to paddle the first section on Zandvlei to enjoy the dawn, see the birdlife and clean up along the way. See this blog closer to the time for details.

It is also Paddle for the Planet Day.
"Uniting paddlers around the world for a one day global relay event in an effort to raise environmental awareness and give something back to our oceans."

See http://www.facebook.com/Paddlefortheplanet?sk=info
There is also a web site but it has no content yet

Full Moon paddle video

2011-05-21T12:05:00.000+02:00

Our full moon paddle last week was simply wonderful. My words certainly can't do it justice so here is a 3 minute video of the trip which perhaps also does not. Watch it anyway if you have time and broadband. Click here.

Kayaking the Cape – Hout Bay to Cape Town

2011-05-05T14:08:00.001+02:00

Although False Bay is our `home water’ we have kayaked large stretches of the Greater Cape Town seaboard. It is not as daring as kayaking around Madagascar etc, but kayaking the Cape is awesome and as accessible as the local beach. We are spoilt for choice with everything from mellow meanders to adrenalin fueled action interspersed with wildlife encounters to remind us that we are the visitors.
We have enjoyed a number of Cape Classics – have had incredible experiences with whales, are often escorted by seals and periodically see sunfish and otter. Sharks you ask!!! Sorry, not on my eye-spy list. Once I saw a fin, or was it a piece of kelp?....
Read the rest of the article at Scenic South

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Some recent short animal encounter videos while kayaking in the Cape Town area:

Otter eating a squid

Lone seal playing with a kayak

Kayaking video with friendly seals

2011-04-12T10:52:00.000+02:00

On a recent paddle trip we were buzzed by a couple of dolphins and then followed for around 15 minutes by a group of Cape Fur Seals. I had my little video camera with me and you can watch the results here.

Video of the last paddle

2011-04-08T10:40:00.000+02:00

On the last regular Wednesday paddle I tried out our new Kodak Playsport video camera result of which should play below. If it does not click then this link to take you there direct.

http://blip.tv/file/4989480

Cape Point trip report

2011-03-21T12:14:00.002+02:00

A confident looking bunch of paddlers!

Well that turned into a bit of an adventure, didn't it. In order to learn from our experiences today I'll write up my account and hopefully many of the group will add their impressions here by commenting or emailing me so I can add it. Feel free to be as critical as you like, I promise it will not be held against you!

The forecast was for for a mild westerly at 12 to 14 knots and as we launched it seemed slightly less than that, indicated by the fact that there were no whitecaps on the water. As can be seen by the wind graphs alongside, the wind picked up very quickly after we left. The group seemed to be handling the conditions downwind pretty well and we headed towards the cave where we stopped to have a look at it and assess, as it offered a bit of wind shelter. Some of the less strong paddlers decided to turn back at this point but the rest of the group wanted to proceed a little further. Less than a kilometre further on it continued to get worse so the rest of the group turned back. I was estimating around 20 knots, gusting to 25 around now.

Look how perfect our launch timing was - NOT

We turned upwind and headed back toward the cave staying quite close to the cliffs. At this point I needed to stay with the paddlers at the back and make sure they were okay and therefore the group will not be aware of what happened with us but I have heard about the incidents up ahead. I had a double and a single with me and because the double was quite a slow heavy boat with one of it's paddlers being,well, no longer in the full flower of youth, I pulled us into the cave to get out of the wind and waves.

Relaxing outside the cave. Wind? What wind?

At this point I called in by cellphone and requested a VHF radio call for any of the numerous fishing boats in the area to look out for the paddlers heading back to the launch site. As a precaution the NSRI were launched in case any paddlers were in trouble. I reckoned it was best for the two kayaks in the cave with me to wait for the wind to drop or the rescue boat, whichever came first. About 30 minutes later I spotted a fishing ski boat moving nearby and madly paddled out to them and asked them to follow the coastline back to our launch site and look out for any kayaks in trouble. They kindly did so and returned to report back that they saw seven kayaks who said they were fine. I assume at this point the first group had landed safely. We waited and when the rescue a boat arrived the paddlers with me decided to take the safe option and got a lift back to the launch site. I left them to it and paddled back.

I learned later that there had been a couple of capsizes in the groups and those people were safely rescued. The groups stayed together as they should and got home safely. Please let us have your stories of the incidents.

Now those paddlers on this trip need to consider the events. Were you confident in your rescue techniques? Can everyone competently do a T rescue? Did you buddy up properly? If you were alone and capsized could you cope? What would you do? Did you make the correct decision in leaving early or not waiting for the trip leader?

Interesting note - do you remember the two fishing kayaks that were launching the same time as we were? They were badly caught out and blown well offshore when the wind picked up. Apparently one of them fell in and could not get back onto the ski but fortunately they were spotted by a fishing boat and picked up.

And whoever lost their white new balance cap, I picked it up. Collect it at the shop.

Monday looks glorious, anyone for Cape Point?

Derek

Cape Point Paddle Sunday 20th March

2011-02-15T14:05:00.005+02:00

SATURDAY: The forecast remains reasonable with a NW or W wind but not very strong. Swells are fine so unless something radical changes in the morning we are going ahead..

This is a great paddle if the weather is right so if you are an intermediate or better paddler we plan to leave from the Buffels Bay slip by 9.00am. Bring a snack, camera, water and plenty of sunblock.
We will meet at 8.15am outside the shop for a pre paddle briefing and weather check. And from there to the usual launch spot at Buffels Bay in the reserve. Please check this blog on Friday and/or Saturday for an update because any changes to the program will be notified here.

New Year Paddle with the Fishes

2011-01-03T15:04:00.000+02:00

It's been so windy here in Simon's Town over the Xmas season that I have been taking paddle trip customers out on the Cape Town side where most days it has been as calm as a bathtub. We often saw dolphins and a few penguins but no whales. Today however was pretty special.

A lovely view of Table Mountain and Lion's Head.

Out of the blue appears a fin - those new to the area assume SHARK!

But those who know, well they know it's not a shark but a sunfish.

Cape Point Paddle cancelled

2010-12-25T13:10:00.000+02:00

Sorry to blog so late but the weather forecast for Cape Point is too windy for a safe paddle in the area. 12 meters per second is forecast but we all know it will be more.
We will reschedule for a date in January. Merry Xmas all.

Weather for the week ahead

2010-12-06T10:51:00.000+02:00

This is the Windfinder forecast for the next week here in False Bay. As I write the forecast is for 14 metres per second and the Roman Rock station is reading 15 metres per second. Last night it blew at 20 metres per second (forecast was 13) which is 40 knots / 74kph.

Those that may be up for a downwind run from Millers to Simons Town at the Wednesday evening paddle contact the shop to make arrangements.

There is a movie here of one of the downwind paddles.

The Cape Doctor rules.

NSRI donation

2010-11-19T15:28:00.003+02:00

Margaret hands over a cheque for R4000.00 to Darren Zimmerman of the NSRI, money which was raised by the entry fees for the Kayak race series over the last Winter. Thank you to all the paddlers who participated in the races.

Race results

2010-11-08T14:08:00.001+02:00

A GRADE Derek Goldman	00:59:42
Geoff Hart	01:00:49
Ryno Lamont	01:01:05
Basil Thomas	01:02:11
Alain Jaques	01:02:41
Mark Webb	01:03:24
Paul Weber	01:05:19
Andrew Kennedy	01:30:49
B GRADE
Kevin Kruger	01:03:16
Wayne Webster	01:11:09
Raymond Wagner	01:13:36
Ian Till	01:14:00
John Laurence	01:15:30
Mike McNair	01:26:49

WOMEN
Silke Carstensen	01:03:51
Barbara Calothi	01:14:00
Viv van der Heyden	01:26:49
Karen	01:30:49

DOUBLE
Tim Elliot & Penny	01:10:52
Full results and pictures on the web site here

Kayak Race Sunday 7th November

2010-10-18T15:05:00.007+02:00

UPDATE THURSDAY 4th Nov:

AT LAST THE FORECAST IS LOOKING REASONABLE!

UPDATE MONDAY 1st Nov:

Verily do the gods smite us with high winds. It was gale force and we did cancel. The surfski boys and girls went ahead with their race in Fish Hoek but this is what they said "In quite the most extreme wind conditions ever experienced since the start of local surfski series racing in 1998 Dawid Mocke posted his maiden victory in the 2010 Discovery Sunglass Hut Surfski series, mastering the gale force winds and overcoming a strong field to clinch the title..."

We will try again for next Sunday the 7th. Sigh.

UPDATE SATURDAY:Yes it's gonna be windy but not a gale so far, so we are ON! We should be reasonably sheltered in Simon's Bay. See you tomorrow.

UPDATE THURSDAY:
The forecast is looking pretty windy but unless it's a howling gale we will be going ahead with the race anyway. If it is very windy we will obviously do the more sheltered course from the beach through the yacht club.
This will be the last race of the season.
Whoever is in charge of the weather would appear to be a surfskier and not a paddler. Our last two Sunday's have been horrendous weatherwise and yesterday would have been our race day except the surfskiers were at the beach for the opening race of their season - and it was just glorious.
Surfskiers would actually say the weather was against them as they hate flat calm days so perhaps the weather god just does not like paddlers of any kind! Anyway next Sunday looks to be pretty windy so we are setting the race for 31st October. Fingers are crossed, toes are cramped.

Kayak Race - Sunday 10th October - POSTPONED AGAIN

2010-10-05T15:43:00.002+02:00

FRI: Not gonna happens guys and girls. Race is postponed until further notice.

THU: It's not getting any better - I will make a decision on Friday and post it here. If we postpone the race will take place on the 24th or 31st Oct

WED: It's not the best forecast we've ever seen is it!? However if the front is delayed by a few hours then the weather should be fine and the race will go ahead so watch this space please.

RACE DAY - Sunday 10th October 10am

Long Beach (behind Simon's Town railway station)
Registration from 9am R30 per paddler
Race Start 10am (on the water start)

Kayak Race - Sunday 3rd October

2010-09-29T12:18:00.003+02:00

POSTPONED TO NEXT SUNDAY
The forecast is the same as today and it's terrible over here.

Race video

2010-09-07T09:37:00.000+02:00

Geoff Tinker made a video of the 3rd race of the season and you can see it here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFUIVjWOxuo

Sunday Race

2010-08-28T10:03:00.008+02:00

David drops the flag and gets the race under way

RACE REPORT

It was a lovely calm day for a race albeit with a light headwind most of the way and some biggish chop at the lighthouse and Roman Rock

Full results and and more pictures on the Race Page

LONG COURSE
Derek Goldman, Basil Thomas, Geoff Hart, Ryno Lamont , Mark Webb, Matthew McCambridge, Mark Munro, Paul Whitmill, Kevin Kruger, John Laurence, Ian Till, Sean Burr

Women: Silke Carstensen, Tracey Fincham

SURFSKI

Jean Tresfon, Paul Jenkins, Kevin Brunette,Mike Van Wieringen, Bernard Haupt

SHORT COURSE

Emile Kruger & Adrian, Ian Lints, Barbara Calothi, Alistair Hendricks, Christo van Schalkwyk, Wayne Coram, Sandy Mclea, Bart Mclea

Whale encounter experience

2010-08-16T16:15:00.003+02:00

Anne relaxing with no idea what's in store for her

What an incredible experience...think I'll be buzzing for the next 2 weeks.

This was our first kayaking trip to Cape Point. It was so nice to be with a group who knew the area and conditions well. We would never have ventured there on our own.

Anyway the scenery was spectacular. When we got to the point, the wind had picked up a bit and the swells were bigger than we'd ever experienced before. I think Derek could see that we were a bit apprehensive and suggested we turn back and head towards the more sheltered area and wait for them.

Drew and I were cruising along, talking about how incredible it would be to see a whale. He said he thought we were too close to the cliffs. Anyway he went on ahead of me a bit. We were moving quite quickly when all of a sudden this rock appeared out of the water a couple of meters in front of me. (as I write this my heart is racing again!!!) Then I realized that it was a whale - huge, must have be 10 meters across - covered in barnacles. I started back paddling but couldn't stop and ended up on top of him. He sank down a bit then came out of the water, right under my seat. I must have been lifted about half a meter out of the
water. Then he just sank down and there was this huge wave all around me. Oh my God!!!

This all happened so quickly. I just remember wanting to scream to Drew, but thinking that the noise may upset the whale! I only screamed once he had gone under again. Drew turned round to see this wave and white water all around me. How I stayed in my kayak, I really don't know. And then I started shaking. I could not believe what had just happened.

The whole afternoon, I kept reliving that experience...just could not believe it! We cracked open a bottle of bubbly to celebrate life. I think this is one of those experiences that will stay with me forever.

This is why we've moved down to the Cape!!!

Anne

What it probably did not look like

Cape Point Paddle report

2010-08-16T12:25:00.000+02:00

14 paddlers - around half of whom had never paddled this route - set off at 10am for the point on a cool and blustery morning. The forecast was for mild northerlies swinging to the south - perfect for the return journey. Swells were large and choppy at the point but more than half the group braved it and paddled round the point before turning for "home" at Buffels.

Mark, Silke, Andre and myself split off and paddled back to Simon's Town get some extra mileage - 31km to be precise - under our belts. Got back at 3pm, pretty damn tired. The wind did not play ball and only swung south after 5pm so we paddled all the way back into a westerly headwind of 15 to 20kph but it was still great fun.

The big moment however, and I only heard about this the next day because I had left the group, was one of the paddlers got raised out of the water by a surfacing Southern Right! She was fine and we are hoping she will write up her experience for the blog.

Pictures of evening paddle

2010-08-12T11:29:00.002+02:00

Last night was so nice I thought I'd post some pictures for those who failed to turn up! Click on the picture for enlarged version.

Cape Point this Sunday 15th

2010-08-12T11:26:00.003+02:00

The forecast for this Sunday is pretty good so it's time to go to Cape
Point for our regular paddle.
Meet outside the Paddlers shop at 9am to car pool up and sort out
logistics.
If the weather turns too nasty for Cape Point we will just do the local
paddle or perhaps a Millers downwind. The normal paddle from Berthas will
still take place for those who are not ready for the Point.
Remember your Wild Card or R75 cash

Third Kayak Race - Sunday 25th July 2010

2010-07-19T13:18:00.006+02:00

RACE REPORT

Finally a beautiful winters morning on race day bringing out our largest field of the season. The good weather allowed for the scenic course of following the coast along the beach to the Paddlers Bouy, out to the lighthouse and back to the beach to finish. Basil just pipped Mark at the line in a tight finale.

Jean took the surfski race in another tight finish and Silke continues her domination of the female category.

Thanks to Naish for demoing stand up paddling to us and once again to Oasis Water in Lakeside for the after race drinks.

Full results and more pictures on the Race Page

Second Kayak Race - Sunday 27th June 2010

2010-06-24T12:30:00.022+02:00

RACE REPORT
Well it was touch and go whether to cancel at around 7am this morning - it still looked fairly gnarly out there but the wind was obviously moderating and we decided to trust the winfinder forecast of the lull and it proved accurate. As the wind was slightly easterly the long course set off to Ark Rock, turned to the lighthouse, rounding it anti clockwise, and set off back to the beach, a distance of 7.2km. The short course returned after rounding Ark rock. The wind may have dropped but the swell had not - it was pretty big out there and it was an extremely challenging course. The huge waves at the lighthouse took their toll on the surfskiers who tested the water temperature a few times but the sea kayakers in their more stable craft all stayed dry. Derek led the way out but was passed by Geoff at the lighthouse and they diced all the way back with Derek only prevailing on the last few hundred meters. Mark moved up on the rankings by beating Basil for the first time.

Full results and more pictures on the Race Page

Jellyfish Invasion

2010-06-23T11:18:00.000+02:00

You may have spotted the large quantity of jelly fish in the bay and wondered about them - I know I have.

There is an story at Scenic South answering the question and a very interesting general article as well.

SATURDAY PADDLE

2010-06-04T21:54:00.002+02:00

Saturday's weather indeed being glorious, my non-paddling husband, Harry, and I headed up Echo Valley in the Kalk Bay mountains returning via the Spes Bona Valley. The sea was looking magnificent – extremely calm and placid (imminently paddleable!) with great swathes of satiated seabirds floating on the water close to shore. We wondered whether the sardines were in the bay, and hoped fervently to see some exciting activity involving dolphins and killer whales. Alas, this was not to be and we had to be content with the “virtual encounter” with the Orcas and multitudes of dolphins in False Bay at present which you too can experience by clicking onto the following page of Kim's and my local community website:
http://www.scenicsouth.co.za/2010/06/false-bay-a-bay-of-whales/
Viv

Derek adds:
Here is another report on the same pod with great pictures
Also look at this article from Newfoundland about a whale encounter while paddling

Paternoster getaway - Postponed

2010-06-03T14:46:00.002+02:00

POSTPONED.
Accommodation either campsite at Titiesbaai or if you like to organise your own, there are many guesthouses in Paternoster or you could contact the Parksboard. Weather can be tricky at that time of the year, so plans might change short-term (change to another destination or cancel). For those wanting to paddle with us, we will organise paddles for the more experienced paddler but paddling is usually also great for less experienced paddlers - just make sure you have a paddling buddy and the necessary safety equipment. Paternoster offers more than just paddling - fishing, hiking, cycling etc are all nice activities for yourself or partners that you which to drag along ;-) If you'd like to join us, please contact Silke Carstensen on silkecarstensen@gmail.com and I'll keep you informed. This is an open invitation but please note that paddling, camping etc is at your own risk.

Wednesday Paddle - 5 pictures are worth a 1000 words

2010-06-03T14:44:00.001+02:00

Paddlers Kayak Race Series - Race 1 Results

2010-05-30T16:26:00.001+02:00

After the most glorious windless Saturday, race day greeted us with a howling south-easter which reduced the number of contestants. The route was changed from the advertised one to a number of laps via a rectangular course from the beach to the yacht club and back. The high winds made for a challenging and technical race with much of it side-on winds of 40kph and more.

Short Course - 2 laps - 4km
Christo van Schalkwyk	00:38:23
Margaret Tierney	00:41:18
Intermediate - 3 laps - 5.3km
David Parry-Davies	00:41:12
John Laurence	00:48:36
Long Course - 4 laps - 7.2km
Derek Goldman	00:48:34
Bernard Haupt	00:48:38
Ryno Lamont	00:50:02
Geoff Hart	00:50:10
Mark Webb	00:50:21
Paul Weber	00:52:44
Tim Elliot	00:53:24
Mark Munro	00:54:03
Silke Carstensen	00:55:53
Paul Whitmill	00:57:17
Andrew Hermann	01:00:03
Ian Till	01:00:49
Barbara Calothi	01:01:16

Some pictures and categorised results will be on the racepage sometime tommorow.

Paddlers Kayak Shop 2010 Kayak Race Series

2010-05-24T13:37:00.003+02:00

Winter Race Series Starts This Sunday

Back due to popular demand - the Winter Timed Event! We will be calling it a Race just for shorthand but we all know that it's just a way of getting on the water with a group of friendly paddlers and someone telling you how long it took.
There are two distances, the short course being no longer than a regular Sunday morning paddle i.e. Boulders and back, so it is well within everyone's capability.
As always the emphasis is on meeting other paddlers and having a good time. It's also ideal for those who want to use the event to measure and improve their fitness as every paddler will be given a time.

Dawn Patrol on Zandvlei

2010-05-24T12:28:00.000+02:00

Was on Zandvlei in my Kayak before dawn on Sunday to join four energetic eco-activists for the Zandvlei leg of their Peninsula Paddle from M/Berg Beach to Milnerton along the vleis, rivers and (sadly) mainly canals. Started at the bridge before sunrise - then paddled just as it was getting light along the vlei to the top where the Fish Eagles roost. Early morning orange, pelicans, king fishers and a zillion other water birds made for a wonderful start to the day. Some seagull rowdies hassled the eagles off their roost and I heard them call overhead as I paddled back. On the way, I did a loop through a section of the Marina to see how the water worlders live. There are shallow sections immediately upstream of Main Road Bridge, but I made it through to meet the incoming tide at the weir. Glided over into the sea to land on the beach. Next time I shall take breakfast and stop on the Island to enjoy the birds.

Kim K.

Another magical animal encounter

2010-05-19T14:20:00.001+02:00

Winter has settled in but this does not keep us of the water. Yesterday we made the most of the magical days winter has to offer and headed out from Millers Point towards Smitswinkel Bay. This stretch of coastline is very exposed to strong winds and swells so picking the correct day is essential. Paddling along this untouched coastline really allows you to appreciate the area we live in.
We came across a calm little cove were we decided to land for a leg stretch, after reentering the water we were greeted by a furry friend the Cape Clawless Sea Otter. After much contemplation he decided to get up close for a thorough investigation of our kayaks lasting several minutes. Let's remember that this is their area and they do not mind visitors who keep to themselves. Enjoy your Paddle!
Geoff Hart

A whale of a kayak trip

2010-05-19T10:28:00.003+02:00

Kayaking in whale season can be a dangerous sport so take care! :) :) :)

...proof

Paddle from Hout Bay to Three Anchor Bay.

2010-04-29T10:07:00.004+02:00

Mike's invite to join him on this paddle was pretty last minute, which happens when the weather dictates. Fortunately Simon's Town paddlers are mostly adaptable, so there were plenty of takers.
Margaret, Derek, Mark, Basil, Barbara, Hendrik, William and myself set out on a perfect morning into a dreamy sea without any misgivings.

The trip to Seal Island was effortless and wonderfully scenic. As we approached the perfoming seals, the tour boat Calypso breezed passed, laden with smiling oriental faces. Cameras clicked furiously and suddenly we were big in Japan, although those awesome cliffs and the rising swell soon started to make us feel small and helpless.

Barbara soon took her first of many dunkings as the sea turned into a washing mashine. In the shadow of the cliffs the water looked dark cold and menacing and the mist started to roll in. Barbara's legs soon turned numb with cold which didn't help to improve her balance on her unstable surfski. We were very relieved to be in the comfort of our relatively stable kayaks.

As three of the kayaks started to disapear into the mist ahead of us and couldnt hear our shouts. William realised to his delight that he could legitimately use his whistle, (My ears are still ringing, but it did the trick) and Mike turned back to reasure us that calmer conditions were just around the corner at Sandy Bay and the mist would soon fade.

The eerie fog horn continued to boom out of the white fog ahead and we chose to not turn back but to trust Mike's experience. Barbara battled on gamely but wisely decided to bail out at Llandudno where we stopped for breakfast.
Mike was spot on with his predictions and the rest of the trip was pure pleasure.

Some of the highlights for me was the sight of the wreck of the Boss 400 looming surrealistically out of the mist and the hang gliders drifting off Lions Head. We truly live in an amazing part of the world and although False Bay with its Whales and Dolphins will always be the best place to paddle, there are definitely adventures to be had on the Atlantic side too.

Margot King

Dolphins, again

2010-04-13T11:58:00.000+02:00

The huge pod of dolphins that has been gorging itself for weeks on the huge school of fish, which seemingly cannot find its way out of the bay to potential safety, made another appearance during one of my tourists trips. This time it was right in Simon's Bay and they were not feeding so hung around for 15 minutes or so swimming around the kayaks. Luckily my customers had their camera and got some great shots. As usual click on the photo to see a larger view.

Cape Point Paddle - Sunday 11th

2010-04-08T13:28:00.002+02:00

UPDATE. The wind blew rather stronger than forecast so the trip was changed to a downwind run from Millers Point to Fish Hoek.

The forecast at the moment looks marginal for an enjoyable paddle to Cape Point unless you are fairly experienced. It does however look good for a Buffels back to Simon's Town paddle for the fitter ones. It's the swell that may prove a problem at the launch and if it's a issue there it will certainly it makes for big swells at the Point. So no promises, it's a call we will have to make once we are there.

It is important for us to know who is coming so if you are, please email margaret@paddlers.co.za to let us know.

Meet at Paddlers shop at 8.30am to organise car pooling. Remember your Wild Card, especially as some people may have to go back to Buffels to fetch cars.

Bay Crossing - Kim's impressions

2010-03-29T14:17:00.001+02:00

We had been talking about paddling across False Bay for a couple of years. The more we talked and strategized, the more opportunities we missed. The weather forecast and sea conditions for Sunday 29 March were perfect for a crossing. “Let’s Just Do It’” someone said. So we did.

Seven experienced sea-kayakers from the Paddler’s Kayak Shop network of regulars set out early on Sunday morning from Millers to tackle the 33kms to Rooiels. To be honest, I joined the group for `the t-shirt’. So that I could say, if anyone asked, that I had paddled across False Bay. The experience was awesome with perfect conditions and for those of you interested in numbers, we completed the crossing averaging a comfortable 7kms per hour. It was not at all the long, eventless, open ocean slog that I had expected. Hardly had we left the slip at Millers when we were surrounded by wheeling Malgas (Cape Gannet ) who eyeballed us almost as if they thought we were a fishing party worth watching. Our route took us just south of Whittle Rock which seems to have lost its marker buoy, but which we located surrounded by Kalkbay Chuckies. The crew was busy with their hand lines and not especially interested in us – no doubt in their long years at sea they have seen so many unusual sightings that a handful of sea-kayakers in mid ocean is all in a day’s work.

At about the half way mark with Cape Point looking rather small behind us and Cape Hangklip and the Koggelberg Mountains still a distant smudge half buried in cloud we rafted-up for very welcome coffee and crunchies. After over two hours at sea there was the inevitable discussion about how to relieve a full bladder while sitting in an unstable craft over 17kms from nearest land. There were various solutions, most of which were not tested so that for some of us the situation did add to the endurance aspect of long distance paddling.

In our experience, the middle of the bay is not the quiet preserve of deep ocean swells but is full of life. The variety of seabirds that we could not recognize added to the excitement of being in new territory. Judging by the birds and the vast assembly of seals, there must be huge shoals of bait fish in the bay at present. The seals looked satiated and hung together in companionable rafts of raised flippers. As we paddled past, small groups of seals detached themselves and porpoised playfully after our boats. The spray kicked up by diving Malgas had us thinking about whales, and sure enough a Bryde’s Whale blew and then surfaced close by.

As we approached the-other-side of False Bay our destination became more real. We were also, sadly, seeing floating plastic as we approached land. Hangklip lighthouse, which at first looked as if it was standing in the sea, was now visible on its low-lying fringe of land and Rooiels was taking shape – as were the white plumes of breaking waves crashing onto the rocks along the coast. We know that Rooiels has a safe landing beach and that Derek had recently paddled from Rooiels while escorting swimmers in an across the bay attempt. Ja! We thought that we had done amazingly well to paddle across False Bay, but that swimmers have swum the same crossing is really impressive. We followed Derek around the point into Rooiels Bay and saw not only an easy beach exit, but also Liz and Honey our support crew waiting for us. We had just done it - the plan came together. There is no t-shirt big enough to say it all, but I shall never be able to look across False Bay again without reliving a part of the wonderful experience. There is nothing False about this Bay – but that’s another story!!
KimK

False Bay Crossing

2010-03-29T12:49:00.000+02:00

We've talked about doing it for years but getting a willing bunch together on the same day with the weather perfect and on a Sunday is rare but it all came together at short notice this weekend.

Silke Carstensen, Kim Kryshaar, Derek Goldman, Chris Kryshaar, Mark Webb and Margot and William King set off around 7.45am...

...from Millers Point heading to Rooi Els 32.5km away as the Google Earth crow flies.

The forecast light westerly wind, which would have been a tail wind, and the main reason for going this day, never really materialised and for the first half of the crossing we headed into a moderate northerly. While it never blew strong enough to slow you down much it did create a cross chop against the 3m swell opposing it from the south.

By around half way the wind dropped to almost nothing and the swell increased as the barrier effect of the Cape Point peninsula lessened.

It's tough on the back and bum so it helps if you're a bit supple and can lean back this far!

Hangklip slowly - too slowly - gets closer and looms larger. An hour or so from landing another friendly Brydes whale paid a visit to the lucky paddlers, but this time did not stay to play. It passed across our bows, turned around us and from just 15m or so showed its fin, dived and disappeared. (Margaret said there was another whale very close to us as we left but none of us actually saw it!)

One expects the trip to be boring for long stretches but deeper into the bay the wildlife increases and we were often chased by playful seals and the birdlife is magnificent. The beautiful Cape Gannet is plentiful and (we think) Petrel as well. Nothing wrong with the view of the mountains ahead either.

Around 5 hours after leaving we arrive at the small holiday hamlet of Rooi Els to be met by our transport crew (thanks Liz and Honey), Hansa "bombs" in hand.

Click on the pictures to enlarge.

Whale encounter report

2010-03-25T12:58:00.004+02:00

Kim Kryshaar writes:
We like to tell newcomers that each time we paddle along the Simon's Town coast, the experience is different. Well, Sunday 21 March, was a once in a lifetime experience. The sea was cold, calm and so clear, that you could see what the anemones were eating for breakfast. We struck out for the Roman Rock Lighthouse, rejoicing in freedom from the wind that had been howling all week. The distinct sound of a whale blowing stopped us in mid stroke and cheers from the lead paddlers alerted the rest of us to three Whales swimming less than 100m away. The excitement of seeing whales at this time of the year and speculation about what they were (Brydes Whales or Humpbacks) subsided as we split up to paddle past the lighthouse, with some kayakers negotiating the washing machine at the base of Roman Rock. 20 minutes later, while heading toward Windmill Beach the same three whales appeared directly in front of us - almost as if they had been waiting for us to catch up. One ‘chased’ after the lead paddler who immediately turned back to join the rest of us while we laughed in astonishment at his unease.
The other two whales made their presence known by surfacing close by and gently encouraging us to bunch up. Whenever anyone paddled, they immediately received attention in the form of a huge smooth body with crescent shaped fin following their kayak with distinct interest. “Is this what it is like to be in a bait ball?” someone asked. “I have heard that whales swim under boats and lift them up for fun,” someone else in the baitball squeaked just as a whale swam under our kayaks. We followed its progress with abated breath, watching the ripples on the surface that marked its passing. Margot and William frantically tried to photograph the whales, which were playing with us, surfacing unexpectedly and then sounding with no time to focus a lens. One took a particular liking to Chris’s kayak and repeatedly surfaced within a paddle length of him, but then gave up when Chris did not take up the invite to play tag. Another blew next to us, giving us a dose of halitosis on a whale scale. Without exception everyone was WOWed by the experience. At no stage were the whales aggressive - their curiosity was exciting and flattering. The encounter lasted a few all too short minutes and then the whales peeled off and headed out to sea.

For those of you who shared this special encounter or anyone who has had a similar experience: Please comment and share your understanding or feelings about encounters with whales.

I spoke to Nan Rice, well known and respected whale and dolphin expert, about the experience. She confirmed that the whales were Bryde’s Whales and laughed when I said that the whales appeared to have herded us. Nan suggested that they were most likely curious and apparently often approach and swim around boats and yachts. However, Brydes Whales are not aggressive and do not lift boats out of the water. The Bryde’s Whales that we saw probably belong to a resident coastal population which "patrol" our near shore waters looking for anchovies, pilchard and herring. For more info about Bryde's Whales go to this link at scenicsouth.co.za

Humans Rights Day paddle

2010-03-22T13:02:00.000+02:00

Some of the lucky whales paddlers from Sunday went out again Monday and paddled from Buffels Bay back to Simon's Town. It's a 20km or so paddle and with a moderate following wind took a mere 3 hours including a coffee break at Millers Point.

...and now whales!

2010-03-22T12:56:00.002+02:00

I suppose it was too much to ask to be paddling so soon after my dolphin adventure to have whales around me as well but this lucky group of paddlers on the usual 9.30 Sunday trip had 2 Brydes whales "herding" them around near the lighthouse. One of the group will hopefully soon write about the experience here.

More dolphin pictures

2010-03-19T14:56:00.001+02:00

Luckily a friend was on shore at the time with a camera so here are some more pictures. Thanks Adele. Click on an image for larger version.

Dolphins!!!!

2010-03-08T15:07:00.003+02:00

I have been paddling here in Simon's Town area for 7 years and in that time have only had one close encounter with dolphins - a group in Simon's Bay stayed around the kayaks for 10 minutes or so. Today I was paddling with 4 customers just off Seaforth when I spotted some dolphins moving from Ark Rock in a northerly direction. We turned seawards and paddled towards them and then behind them for a minute. They then turned and headed south past us and we turned and followed them for 20 minutes or so until Windmill Beach where we stopped. They were behind us, in front of us, beside us and of course underneath us all this time. I did not have my camera with me - damn - but a customer did and he took these pictures, unfortunately they don't do the experience justice. Wow, what a trip. Click on the pictures for a larger look.

Point Taken – a Kayaker's Perspective

2010-02-22T11:44:00.001+02:00

Yachties do it, skiboaters do it. Even dedicated surfskiers do it. We had to do it - kayak all the way around Cape Point from Simon’s Town to Kommetjie. Interest was high, and the availability of two cottages in the reserve for an overnight stop determined the dates. The rest was up to the weather, which as it turned out, was magnificent.

13 Kayakers launched from Seaforth Beach early on the 13 February for the first leg to Buffelsbay. We were on the water before the wind. The remnants of a passing cold front screened the rising sun so that False Bay was washed in a pearly glow. The sea was unusually calm, allowing us to keep close to the coast and to thread our way between the boulders of both Millers and Partridge Point, saluted, so it seemed by waving kelp fronds. So far so good, the first 19km section was a gentle warm up with a short stop at Smitswinkelbay and then on to an early lunch at Buffelsbay.

After lunch the group split and the kayakers who had come for the first leg returned to Simon’s Town by car while the rest of the group kayaked to the Point. We followed the base of towering cliffs, a group of red, white and yellow paddlers in a landscape that dwarfs human achievement. It soon became evident that the conditions on the Atlantic were much more energetic than in False Bay. From a distance we could see foam and huge swells breaking at the Point. Here the vast expanse of the African continent tapers to a narrow knife edge – awesome! Almost at the point where this knife edge enters the sea stands a tower of rock, a column with an animal head on top, sometimes lion, sometimes sheep. Does the head mirror the mood of the viewer or the state of the sea? On that afternoon the head catching the light was that of a lion. And the sea below was roaring. But so were the 5 of us who rounded Cape Point to complete the second leg to Oliphantsbos. Our escort turned back toward Buffelsbay shouting “Don’t take any chances” into the rising wind.

On the Atlantic side, we were forced to keep well out to sea to avoid huge swells which suddenly toppled and foamed over hidden reefs. Albatross Rock about a kilometer from Olifantsbos gave us a blast of pure adrenalin. We had been riding the swells complacently, or maybe after 43km of paddling we were tired. A particularly big set almost caught us off guard. The top of the first swell collapsed in threatening white water and sucked a huge hole in the sea exposing reef directly in our path. Basil and Silke were already committed and scooted over the breaking wave with the alacrity of road-runner-at-sea. After that experience, Mark headed for the horizon and had to be summonsed back with loud whistle blasts. Good to know that the whistle on my lifejacket is not a toy!!

Still pumped full of fright, maybe I should speak for myself, it was time to negotiate the approach to Olifantsbos. The swells obscured sight of our landing and it looked as if waves were breaking across the bay. We had done two reccies previously and had a GPS course and landmarks of the safe route to shore. Now it was just a matter of trusting these systems. Margaret and Derek of Paddlers were on the beach waiting for us. Their phone call “Keep to the channel guys, its open” was hugely reassuring. Bracketed by breaking waves, but safe in the channel we got in without any drama. (PS Don’t try this unless the conditions are very calm, you know the route or alternatively don’t mind being turned into seafood soup.)

Was it the champagne, the camaraderie or the relief of having made it, but that evening around the campfire was great? And knowing that the swell was dropping and that kayaking into `The Komm’ was easy made for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Sunday 14th dawned sunny and windless – a gift from St Valentine. Liz sent us off with a skottel breakfast fit for champions and Viv joined us to show us the route into `The Komm’. Paddling out of Olifantsbos was a cinch, the swell had dropped dramatically and a flock of Malgas kept us company at sea. A gentle south wind nudged us toward Kommetjie and before long we were passing the assortment of craft that venture out to catch crayfish in season. Chris phoned a friend as we approached Slangkop Lighthouse who advised us to come in through The Komm rather than the slipway route. The tide was very low and a skiboat had just flipped in the channel to the slipway. We were met on the shore by the friends and family whose logistic support had made our trip possible.

60km around the Fairest Cape in all the world and a wonderful experience of kayaking, adventure and companionship. That’s the Point.

Picture preview of the weekend's paddle

2010-02-15T10:26:00.016+02:00

Silke's GPS track
Simon’s Town (Seaforth) to Buffel’s Baai 16.8 km
Buffel’s Baai to Cape Point 5.8 km
Simon’s Town to Olifantsbos 43 km
Olifantsbos to Kommetjie 15.7 km

The general area

Muizenberg and the Lighthouse behind the group heading for the Point

Passing Steve's rock on the way from Seaforth to Cape Point

The group in the Buffels area

And rounding Cape Point

What it looked like left of the landing channel

Happy faces after landing at Olifantsbos

Suiping at the braai

Suiping more at the braai

Setting off Sunday morning from Olifantsbos destination Kommetjie

Seaforth to Buffels Bay - 7.30am Saturday 13th February

2010-02-09T13:21:00.003+02:00

Friday update: weather still looks good.

This is approximately a 19k paddle, planned as a warm-up for those who haven't done much distance paddling before. It is has been organised as a non strenuous paddle and includes a stop along the way. Everyone who wants to do this trip should be known to the group and/or have proven experience of group paddling. Standard safety equipment plus plenty of water and snacks.
Meet just after 7am at the Car Park in Seaforth for briefing, car share, planning and last weather check. As of Tuesday weather looks perfect.
Check this blog Friday night to see if there any updates or in case weather forces a cancellation or change of venue.

SURFSKIS FOR TALL PEOPLE

2010-02-05T10:57:00.003+02:00

Barbara has asked why I have not yet joined her and Estelle at Zandvlei on their Tuesday and Thursday training paddles...

The short answer is that if you are, like me, 1.9 metres tall and a beginner then finding a suitable ski seems to be a challenge.

The problem, is essence, the lenghth of the cockpit. A very friendly shop asistant at a famous Paddling Shop told me yesterday that "all cockpits are the same length" and while I readily admit that I know very little about Skis, I cannot, with respect agree. The issue really, as I see it, centres around the overall length of the ski. If the ski is long the cockpit can be made longer. My admittedly limited Engineering savvy tells me that all things must be kept in proportion...?

The longer skis (+- 6,4m) are aimed at the upper end of the skill level. They are also narrower. This we know from Kayaks. Compare an Epic 18 to a Skua. The problem with a Ski is that the longer and narrower boats are far more tippy. They are aimed at the advanced paddler. The shorter skis (+-5,6m)are wider and more stable.

From a beginners perspective (I view myself as a beginner in this context) stability is a major issue. When a Kayaker first climbs on a "beginners" ski it is like learning to paddle all over again. You are unstable but feel subjectively that your balance is probably better than a complete novice. Having said this I must point out that their are some skis that claim to be so stable that a complete novice can just jump on and paddle them. I think that a Kayaker who is moving to Surfskis thinks (as I do) that if he/she wants that kind of stability then maybe he/she should just get a faster Kayak...

So to my point.. The faster, narrower and unstable Skis fit me legwise although, being so narrow, they seem to be a bloody tight fit at the hips. The shorter, more stable skis don't fit me legwise but are wider and the waist is comfortable.(at least those that I have seem to date). If this unltimately proves to be an incontravertible fact across all makes then where to??

The only ski that have paddled for any length of time is Derek's Fenn XT (wider and "stable"). Yesterday I tried to paddle a Custom Kayaks Synergy (fast and long). By comparison this is the equivelent of the Fenn Elite (+_ 6,4m). Suffice it to say that I struggled to stay upright in flat water and all my senses went into overdrive just to maintain any semblance of balance. The narrowness and tight fit at the hips, combined with the "instability" also makes it harder to get back on.

I think that stability is to some extent, a relative thing. With experience and practice, practice, practice, the issue fades. But how much practice? And in the meantime... where and when to get the paddling time in?

I am also convinced that at our level, the differences in speed between the stable and "unstable" boats is not significant. I am not the quickest paddler to start with. Basil, 15 years my senior, is quicker in any boat than I am. He is just a better, stronger and fitter paddler. Maybe some of this is that he just gets much more time on the water than I do.

As to the makes of Skis in this scenario? One of the problems is that there are few boats readily available for testing and it seems as if you often have to paddle privately owned boats. This is both a bit embarrasing and frustrating because my time is extremely limited. I am told that the Epic V10 is a very good ski but that you can't get them at the moment. The Fenn Elite has about a 2 month waiting list but would (I am told) be too narrow for me. Custom Kayaks boats seem to be readily available. There are one or 2 others that I have not been able to test (or see).

I received some good advice from the guru himself- Dawid Mocke and from Derek who, while only a recent surfskier himself, has a good sense about paddling and boats. Of course the shops can only sell you what is available on the market. My problems are mine and I must ultimately make an informed choice.

Derek and I chatted yesterday. We think that maybe a XT with a modified track if that is possible. At least Derek has the boat in stock. On the other hand - The XT is so ubiquitous. I have it in my mind that I would like to have something different. Maybe a colour other than white? Maybe the solution is to approach one of the manufacturers?

The search continues...

Paul

PADDLING REPORT BACK - 24/01/10

2010-02-02T17:00:00.000+02:00

The paddle was probably as calm and uneventful as the weather. So not much to report. Never really is actually, unless you, like me, embellish the tale with all kinds of fanciful nonsense. You actually have to be there to savour the pleasure.

Statistically speaking the Paddlers were, in no order of preference or ability:

The Wavemaster (in a plastic tub) minus calamari, The Hun minus calamari (she lost her bag in the water). How to you do that?, Hendrik (exhausted from a weeks hard work, or play - not sure which one) , Barbarella showing off on her Fenn, Viv (lifejacket mannequin), another guy and girl (don't know their names), Great Chris White (with undersea cable in tow) and I.

Great Chris White reported that Viv was attacked by a 27 metre Great White (no really) which he singelhandedly fended off with his electric tail. I think that he may have seen a jellyfish or Silke's Calimari bag.

The rest of us had a really ordinary and gentle paddle up to Steve's house and back.

When we got back Great Chris White proceeded to scare away all of Derek's customers by regaling with tales of all the sea kayaks eaten by his bretheren in False Bay to date. Derek is suing.

I by the way, am trying out surf - ski's...this week. Maybe I will let you know more about this endevour...

Regards

Paul

REPORT BACK - SUNDAY PADDLE 24/01/2010

2010-01-25T17:32:00.002+02:00

I have witnessed a sense of quiet anxiety amongst the paddling community since the attack at Fish Hoek. I think that we all, to a differing extent, feel a sense of apprehension in putting our boats in the water after having been reminded, again, that the ocean is not exclusively our playground.

The feeling that has gelled over the last few weeks I think can best be summed up by the closing words of Dawid Mocke in his recent post on the Varsity Surf Ski School Website. Since they are his words I won't repeat them here but suggest that you read Dawid's contribution for yourself.

I was very happy to hear from Basil T that the Wednesday evening paddle after the incident was particularly well supported. I think that Paddlers, whether Kayakers, Surfskiers or Waveskiers are on the whole philoshophical about sharks. We know that they are, like seals and dolphins, with us in the water and that it is by no means a certainty that one of our ilk will never encounter them. We do however believe that we must moderate our behaviour in proportion to the ultimate risk. The exact extent of that risk clearly cannot be determined with any accuracy. We can only look back historically at the number of Kayaks attacked by sharks. It is small. Worldwide.

Fortuitously Sunday brought a light Southwester which, by unanimous assent, took us in a Westerley direction to Fish Hoek Beach via Glencairn. The conditions were perfect and we paddled, as a group of about 8 Kayaks into Fish Hoek beach. We weren't making any statement, just quietly asserting our privelege to paddle in the environment which we love and respect and where, for most of us, we choose to spend a large proportion of our spare time.

Bernard and I met Adrian Good on the beach. Adrian had brought his kids to take part in the Nippers training. Bouys had been placed, marking out a course. Assistants on boards kept an eye on the youngsters as they swam the course and a rubber duck sat a little further out. It was reassuring (to me at least) to observe a sense of normality (and rationality) returning to our environment.

For me this paddle was a little more significant than most and so I have chosen, perhaps out of a sense of deference to desist from the usual light hearted tone of these postings.

In closing I do however feel compelled to report that The Webbmaster and The Hun declined to accompany us this time. It had nothing to do with sharks but everyting to do with a burning desire to catch (and eat) Calimari. I understand that they spent the better part of 2 hours sitting at a certain yellow bouy just off the naval base. They caught, between the 2 of them, 3 of those enormous animals. The Webbmaster was (a little) defensive when suprise was expressed at the generous extent of the oceans bounty. While the rest retired to a Restaurant table to gorge on Calimari, The Webbmaster and the Hun snuck off without fanfare to enjoy their feast with the Selke (who was no doubt disappointed).

And Viv is wearing that damn lifejacket again....

Paul

THE COMMENT ON THE SHARKSPOTTERS BLOG

2010-01-13T15:43:00.001+02:00

I thought it maybe a bit silly not to copy that comment onto this blog. This is it:

"I am part of the False Bay Kayaking community centred in Simonstown. We Kayak, as do the Fish Hoek Surfskiers, almost exclusively in the general area between Millers Point and Kalk Bay. As such we interact regularly with all the natural residents of the bay. Those of us who use False Bay, or any part of the ocean regularly, including (particularly surfers and divers) are sensitive to and aware of the pleasures and dangers which it presents. All too often my real sense is that the casual Saturday swimmer is cut - off and distanced from what goes on beyond the foam. Without wanting to sound arrogant we need to develop a connection with the environment - that connection breeds both respect, tolerance and understanding in what is otherwise an alien environment. When it is experienced as alien there can be only a limited understanding and any experience is filtered through the only environment of which we have experience - land. My earnest hope is that more of us will take the step, in whatever way, to begin to experience the ocean holistically as more than just a pretty sight or a place to cool off on a Saturday morning."

THE FISH HOEK SHARK ATTACK

2010-01-13T15:00:00.000+02:00

I am sure that all of the Simonstown Kayaking community will join the administrators of this blog in expressing sympathy with the loved ones of the swimmer who died at Fish Hoek on 12 January.

I read the post placed on the Sharkspotters website relating to the attack and couldn't help placing my own comment there. You can have a look at it there. It reflects and summarises, in essence, my feelings around the Shark issue without focusing directly on the incident at hand (of which I have very little pertinent knowledge). I would rather leave the formulation of opinions in that regard to those properly qualified to do so.

Perhaps any of the readers of this Blog and the Kayaking community would like to comment. Feel free to.

best regards

REPORT BACK - WEDNESDAY 6/01/2010

2010-01-07T13:55:00.003+02:00

The First Wednesday Paddle of the year was executed in a mild South Westerley and moved in a Northerly direction from Berthas to Fish Hoek.

The really good paddlers carried on from Glencairn quarry to Fish Hoek where the elite surfed into the beach and stood with the other surfers watching the non-elites hanging about aimlessly and nervously on the fringes of the bay. I must say that the other beachgoers certainly looked impressed as one of the elite, The Webb\Wave master (get the pun?) himself, caught a wave in and rode it all the way into the beach at high speed (only to fall out once he had stopped).

Afer re- joining the increasingly nervous non - elite we all paddled merrily back to Simonstown arriving at about 19h30.

I am told by William and Margie, who had paddled a bit earlier, that they had seen a number of Dolphins in the bay. This was confirmed by some of the non elites who brought up the rear on the way home who apparently also saw them. Perhaps this elite thing is counterproductive as they seem to miss the fun. The dolphins were later seen (from the deck of The Southern Right Hotel) swimming just off Glencairn Beach.

The evening weather was perfect and most of the group repaired to The Southern Right (you may have guessed that already) for dinner.

You may be interested to know that Viv has a new grey life preserver. This is only interesting because, as we all know, that multicoloured apparition that she has been wearing for all these years has struggled doggedly against the odds to preserve her dignity, let alone her life (sorry Viv). It will be ceremoniously burnt at our next braai.

William also showed off his latest life preserving apparatus (regular readers will, by now, know that he needs it). It is, wait for it... an exploding, gas propelled life jacket. Apparently as you fall out of your kayak, having been knocked half senseless by a 3 metre wave, or Great White,as the case may be, you reach down, look for and find (or not) a 2cm piece of string which you then pull, setting off an explosion which ignites.. sorry, inflates, this technological marvel. You are then unconcious. This is apparently a good thing because you do not disturb your fellow paddlers with your screams for help or feel the Shark biting you. The Webb\Wave master wants one because he reckons he can ignite it before he paddles into the Northwester.

See you soon on the water.

Oh, by the way, have you seen the tan of the Selkie alluded to in the story below? Wicked. Need to find her a job.

Paul

A CHRISTMAS TALE - FROM KIM AND CHRIS - AND THE KIDS

2010-01-06T11:38:00.000+02:00

Calling on fellow paddlers to tell us about their kayak experiences beyond the familiar shores of False Bay. I’ll tell you about ours if you tell us about yours.!!

Chris and I usually drive east to spend Christmas with family, and no matter how large the load of Christmas consumerables or building materials for holiday cottage repairs, he always manages to pack the seakayaks.

If the sea is rough at Nature’s Valley, we have to console ourselves with practicing eskimo rolling in the lagoon - there is no sheltered Bertha’s Beach style launch site. But if the sea is accommodating, an enervating paddle through the surf is a gateway to either a seaward version of the Otter Trail or westward toward Plett. East or west, the coast is dramatic and the sea full of surprises. This time we were visited by a humpback whale with calf. Anyone who has been close to a whale at sea will know about the lingering magic of the experience. There was a bit of wind chop and the whale surfaced within boat lengths of us before we realized we were not alone. Perfectly huge, with her calf a small replica shadowing her, she simply swam past. Surface, blow, huge finned back humping the ocean aside, confused wavelets marking their passing, surface, blow and that glossy black back again, and again and again. So big! but the only sound her blowing and my heart pounding.

Going through the surf at Nature’s Valley also gets my heart pounding and Double Barrel would chuckle if he could see me doing the `calming breathing’ I like to recommended to others. Fortunately the shore break at NV was smaller than usual and a strong rip current created a relatively wave free channel between beach and backbreak. – and the rest is good timing and for me lots of breathing…..

The Webb ed one joined us for a paddle in Plett. His beautiful wife who is actually a Selkie (which explains why she would rather swim than paddle - and how she manages to swim faster than most of us can paddle) had swam in the Robberg to Plett Charity race the day before Taking a similar route, we launched off the beach in the cnr of Robberg and paddled to the Point and then back via Beacon Isle Beach where we stopped for a leg stretch. When you next see the Webb ed ones ask them why Mark was seconding a seal and not Liz - something fishy there for sure! For us paddlers, the waves breaking off Robberg Point discouraged any thoughts of rounding the Point especially for Mark who was using one of our `foreign boats’ and heaven forbid – no photos please - a FlatPaddle.

I could not help comparing the magnificent roosts of the seals on Robberg with the rows of Plett beach mansions shouldering each other as they competed for seaviews and being thankful that Robberg is a conservation area. The bay is a haven for whales and possibly even for Selkies.

May 2010 be a year of great kayaking experiences for you.

KimK

Full Moon paddle

2009-12-30T08:54:00.001+02:00

Tonight's full moon paddle may not take place because it looks too windy. Call the shop by 5pm to see if it's happening.

PADDLING REPORT BACK

2009-12-28T09:35:00.002+02:00

I don't know much about the Boxing Day paddle that happened on Boxing Day... umm... but kind of think that it was a sort of beginners paddle day...and that some people tried to paddle from Long Beach to the Paddlers Bouy but got tired and paddled back... umm ...that's all I know . Wild.

This past Sunday's paddle was also uneventful but perhaps a bit faster... and longer. Participants were Double Barrel, William the King (who almost didn't make it because he couldn't find his car), the mad hun (Silke), Irish Mark, Bernard the Fenn and Marketing Margaret (who I think was selling a boat again).. and I.

Derek was on a trip...no sorry, taking a trip.

Slight S Easter, no real decent surf home. William, having lost his car, now lost someone elses cars keys. If anyone sees a black BMW X3 thingymagig with an Epic with grey plastic bag on it somewhere in Khayalitsha then please ignore it. All I can say to William is, Please keep it real, Real Kayakers don't drive X3's (or any BMW for that matter ...unless it has 2 wheels.

We then had beers and battled home in the insane traffic. Wild. Well it is the end of the year...

Happy New Year.

Paul and Derek

SIMONSTOWN KAYAKING

2009-12-18T16:14:00.002+02:00

Seeing as we are a blog for all Kayakers I just thought that I would remind everyone that they are all welcome at the regular Paddles. The paddles are open to everyone with a competent sea kayak whether doubles or singles. We don't reccomend the recreational Fluid Type Kayaks as they won't keep up the distance or the speed!

The route is normally, dependant on the wind, from Bertha's in Simonstown in the direction of Seaforth or towards Fish Hoek. We often paddle all the way to Kalk Bay Harbour/or Millers Point but for those who feel that is a bit far there are paddlers who turn back sooner. Refreshments are normally enjoyed at Kalkies in Kalk Bay and their is always a post - paddle drink... (or six).

Paddle Times are Sundays at 09h30 and Wednesdays at 17h30 (in Summer) and 17h00 in winter. The Wednesday paddle is generally accepted as being suitable for the more competent paddlers as the pace is faster.

There are also specially scheduled Moonlight paddles and paddles at Cape Point from time to time. These are posted on this blog in advance. We also organise paddles in other areas and away trips from time to time.

Life Jackets are compulsory for all paddles.

If you are keen on joining the Sea Kayaking fraternity give us a call or post a comment on the Blog.

regards

WEDNESDAY MORNING PADDLE - REPORT BACK

2009-12-17T10:08:00.001+02:00

4 of us paddled out on Wednesday morning - the 4 intrepids were Basil, Trevor, Willy (Huge Perception Eco B thing) and I. We paddled to A frame, turned around - to the Lighthouse, through the middle (where Webb falls out) and home. What a beautiful day...

On the way back I discovered an amazing and good thing. A certain Simonstown trip leader is paddling a new Skua! Is this perhaps a subtle and silent admission that they are much better value (read "affordable") than a certain other brand...? Ok, no more inappropriate stirring.

The paddle was followed by the usual refreshments at "Two and Six". We all went home feeling quite happy.

best regards

Paul

MORNING PADDLE - WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER 09 - 09h30

2009-12-15T17:12:00.000+02:00

Basil is looking for paddling mates on Wednesday Morning.

The weather for a morning paddle looks perfect - light Southerleys. Picks up a little on the late PM. It may be a good idea to paddle tomorrow as Sunday looks a bit doubtful with stronger S'easters.

Basil says he will launch from the Navy dockyard but will look in at Bertha's at 09h30 to see if anyone is there.

Regards

Paul

CLUB PADDLE - SUNDAY 6/12/09

2009-12-10T11:30:00.000+02:00

It was difficult to say how many paddlers we had - for 2 reasons. Firstly the group that left the harbour included one of Dereks Trip Groups and the group split up at the Bullnose some going towards Seaforth and the rest - Basil, Hendrik, Silke, Kim, Viv, Margie, William, the new guy, and I - going to Kalk Bay via Fish Hoek.

It kinda raised the question why we always tend to go South (ie right at the Bullnose). The wind? Habit? Nicer Scenery...? The Fish Hoek route can be a bit boring if you cut across the bay over open water but is quite attractive if you hug the coast. The beaches have nice surf and one can play a bit instead of just paddling to the destination and back. Dont we all need some surf experience? Also - you can stop for a beer or a cup of coffee at Kalk Bay.

On that topic of surf - we chickened out at Fish Hoek. There was a small swell running and the Surf Skiers were running in beautifully. However the beach was jampacked with swimmers and the proposition of flattening a few and being laughed at by the narrow- boat fraternity was not attractive. Like I say - we need some surf practice...

The paddle back was a good workout for the Fish Hoek crowd as the S Easter had picked up a bit. Some landed at Long Beach and the others at the Harbour. Damn divers colonise that beach and its facilities...Can we not make a better plan with our launching facilities? Perhaps we could approach the yacht club?

regards

Paul

regards

SUNDAY PADDLE - 22/11/2009 - REPORT BACK

2009-11-27T13:09:00.002+02:00

This report is a little (a week) late in coming out.

But a falling out (of a kayak) is too good not to report. I am told that a certain member of the Cape Bar went for a swim in False Bay the week before. Apparently the combination of some small swell and his very new (and very expensive) imported (and impotent if you ask me) Kayak got the better of him and while showing off his newly found lack of single paddling skill (his wife normally looks after him in a big flat - bottomed double good quality Kayak), he did an involuntary eskimo roll.

The first pity is that someone fished him out - for heavens sake we have enough Advocates. Its Attorneys that we need. He was of course back again last week. This time his steering cables had broken and no-one would help him fix them. Shame. No - he did not fall out again. Damn.

Moving on from professional rivalry. The actual paddle was excellent. A good 25km/h SE made for a good workout upwind to Windmill and a reasonable surf back. I think that I have put on weight because my bow now goes underwater running down the swell. A bit scary.

Derek took out some poor misguided (by him) souls on a trip at the same time as our paddle. As you will know the bullnose in a reasonable S Easter looks like the proverbial washing machine. I don't think he told them and the screams could still be heard by the time we were at Windmill. We dared not look back and asked no questions. Derek can be quite scary at the best of times.

The paddle was followed by the obligatory beer and lunch. I think ( no - I know) that Webb only paddles for the beer...

Chiao for now.

Paul

Atlantic Side Paddle Trip 15th November

2009-11-13T12:31:00.002+02:00

While we all know that False Bay is still the Atlantic, many of us False Bay paddlers, for no good reason, still refer to the Cape Town side of the peninsula as "the Atlantic". Launch site is at Mouille Point opposite Coastal Kayaks/Kaskazi on the water at 9.30am. Weather forecast looks quite good as it's not yet a strong south easter and "the Atlantic side" should be protected while it may be quite strong in False Bay.

Cape Point Paddle - Sunday 1st November

2009-10-30T12:59:00.004+02:00

...and the newspaper is forecasting only 25kph winds. Should the day gives us 25kph then the trip should be on, if not then the usual paddle in Simon's Town will take place. As usual meet at Berthas car park at the jetty at 9am to carpool to Buffels. Most likely scenario is a downwind back to Simon's Town.

SATURDAY 1PM. Forecast still looks dodgy. Call 082 556 9945 before leaving home to see what we are doing.

CHARITY RACE - NOT ON

2009-10-29T10:41:00.003+02:00

We didn't get enough interest and it seemed, with respect to the organisers, perhaps a little difficult to organise and so we won't participate

Perhaps we can put something together next time...

Regards

Paul

...and while you were at Paternoster

2009-10-27T15:45:00.005+02:00

...I was whale watching at Cape Point. Click on the picture for larger version.

PATERNOSTER AWAY TRIP - REPORT BACK

2009-10-26T10:42:00.006+02:00

THE KAYAKERS CAMPSITE

Eskimo Roll in the Big Surf (Unknown Paddler)

MR Webb after a Paddle...umm.. I mean Beer
LIZ AND BASIL ENTERING TIETIESBAAI

4 Paddlers, Liz and Mark, Pauli Whitmill and Paul made the trip to Paternoster on Friday 23/10.

We found a large private campsite, pitched camp and lit a log fire.

Basil joined us on Saturday (with Gemsbok fillets) and his Skua and that made 5. You should know that Basil always brings something special and unselfishly shares it out. By the way his Skua is for sale if anyone is interested.

The weather on Saturday was perfect. No wind and a dead - flat sea. We paddled at 07h30 launching from the beach at the old Fish Factory. Mark and Paul did the rock surfing the breaks/hopping thing and Pauli, amazingly, followed in his carbon epic without breaking it. Basil arrived at the campsite after we had launched and almost went back to Langebaan when he couldn't find the campsite but found us on Paternoster Beach.

Liz summed it up by saying that it was the best paddle she had ever had. While on the subject of Mrs Webb - she and Basil continued on from the Paternoster Beach to Titiesbaai and they became the first of our Group to enter the usually very tricky Bay from the open sea. The conditions were that perfect!

The second and last paddle was embarked on after lunch. Conditions were a bit choppy but still no swell. We paddled out of Tietiesbaai and turned left and found one of the most beautiful aquamarine beaches we had ever seen. No paddling on Sunday as we had a late "Liz Webb Special breakfast" and drove to Britannia Bay. Conditions there were offshore and we gave it a miss electing rather to go back to Langebaan for a beer.

A big thanks to those who made the weekend. It was well worth it with the best weather we have ever had in Paternoster.

Check out the Photos - courtesy of Pauli Whitmill - especially the ever energetic "post - beer" Webb.

Oh, by the way Where where the (...) were you? Mowing the lawn, at Pick n Pay or maybe taking your Mother - In - Law to Lunch?

See you on the ocean.

best regards

SEA KAYAK with GORDON BROWN DVD

2009-10-25T12:27:00.001+02:00

Available soon at Paddlers.
This is two DVDs in one. One part of it is a four-day voyage up the west coast of Skye by a group of nine paddlers of mixed ability. This can be watched separately, or interlaced with the coaching sessions which will crop up just as they're needed. The coaching sessions, the heart of the DVD, can also be watched separately.

Coaching Sessions and their content are:

Foundations - Body position. Edging and leaning
Forward Paddling
Turning Pt 1
Turning Pt2
Calm water. Rough water.
Turning Pt3
Steering - Stern rudder
Rockhopping - Draw stroke on the move. Really rough water.
Confused water. The 'head game'.

Watch the Trailer

Beginners Evening Paddle - Friday 23 October, 4.30pm

2009-10-21T14:43:00.002+02:00

We get a lot of calls from people who want to join a group paddle but are worried they maybe too slow or not experienced enough. This is the trip for you! We will be on the water for an hour or so, paddling at a relaxed pace. Meet at the beach behind Simon's Town Railway station. It's a good opportunity to get group experience and there will be time to ask questions and get some general guidance. First rule of group paddling? The time given is an ON THE WATER time so be there a good 15 minutes before, for briefing and general safety checks. Weather permitting, so call if you are not sure of the conditions but the forecast is excellent

PATERNOSTER AWAY TRIP 24/25 OCTOBER 09

2009-10-14T11:38:00.008+02:00

The trip is on and and site availability at the campsite is good.

Some of the paddlers will arrive on Friday 23/10/09, others on the 24th.

This is an informal trip.

Their is no need to pre book. You just arrive at the Tietiesbaai Campsite and look for Kayaks. We usually paddle on the Saturday and the Sunday depending on the conditions. For those who have not paddled there before the conditions are quite different to False Bay. The offshore swell can get big and is for competent paddlers. If the wind is reasonable then inshore paddling amongst the rocks is very pleasant. The surf at the main beach is usually benign and good for kayak surfing. We do not take any chances but everyone paddles, as is usual, entirely at their own risk .

As far as food et al is concerned we all cater for ourselves.

REGARDS

KAYAK RACE - THANKS

2009-10-12T10:15:00.002+02:00

Just a vote of thanks to Margaret and Derek (he doesn't do much except win the damn thing every year) for organising and hosting this years race. Without wanting to sound overly righteous I know that they go to a lot of trouble in setting this event up. While present company was hugely racing unfit (it only happens once a year now) the pain was eminently worth it.

Derek won with that funny "paddle stroke" and Basil tried... William almost fell out.

Thanks Tannie M and Oom D

Paul

PATERNOSTER AWAY TRIP

2009-10-12T09:55:00.003+02:00

We have an idea to camp at Tietiesbaai on the weekend of 24/10/09 -25/10/09. Paddling is of course weather (especially wind) dependant.

I have not yet been able to speak to the Campsite Manager so I am not sure what the availability is like. I may book two or three sites (two tents per site) but if you would like to come along then please book your own site. Pre Booking more sites just complicates the booking process due to their rules. We normally go for the sites on either side of the beach.

Tietiesbaai site has two ablution blocks which are generally not bad as camping sites go. It can get busy.

Please check this blog for updates.

regards

Paul

Paddle relay charity challenge

2009-10-08T09:01:00.001+02:00

Anybody care to make up a team?

Kayak Race - Results

2009-10-01T15:04:00.007+02:00

Results of the race can be viewed here

Kayak Race 2009 Postponed

2009-09-24T12:56:00.001+02:00

In order not to mess you about, we have taken an early decision to postpone the race. As of this morning the forecast for Sunday is a black south easter with 4mm rain, 5m swells, max temp of 12 degrees and 40kph winds - more than enough to keep most people at home in bed.

The race will now take place the following Sunday October 4th and depending on weather may move to Long Beach at Simon's Town station.

Kayak Race 2009

2009-09-22T10:45:00.002+02:00

Paddle for the Penguins.
Sunday 27th September 2009 - Seaforth Beach

Every year we at Paddlers organise a fun day out based around our Paddlers "Timed" Event. Eventually we had to succumb and call it a race, but the emphasis is still fully in the taking part rather than racing. This year all funds raised will be donated to SANCCOB and the event has been been generously sponsored by Enviropaedia, in line with the "Go Green with Marine" theme, who will generously be donating a free copy of their excellent book the "Enviromental Encyclopaedia and Networking Directory" to each race entrant.

EVENTS
The main Kayak Race is open to everyone, with a long course, a short course and, drum roll, an even shorter course, specially introduced to allow the larger, heavier recreational kayaks such as Fluid Synergys to take part - it really makes the start quite a spectacle. Winners in all categories will be acknowledged.
Relay Race - This Team event is specially designed for teams of 4 paddlers. Each team will be supplied with identical double sea kayaks, and be required do to three laps around Ark Rock - on each return to the beach they must swap at least one team member. There is some room for tactical manoeuvering, and skill in the change-over will definitely prove an advantage.
All entrants stand to win prizes in our spot draw, plus the Best Dressed Paddler award, Babe of the Beach and Hunk of the Day.
Kiddies Kayak Korner - free rides for the little ones throughout the morning.

WEATHER DELAY - If the weather is unpleasant the day's events will be moved to to the following Sunday, October 3rd.
Updates, weather forecasts and cancellation plans for the race can be found on this blog
Or you can call 082 556 9945 on the morning and LISTEN to the voice message.

RACE PROGRAM
Registration is from 8.30pm - entrance fee is R30 single, R60 Double, Team R1000 (R250pp)
MAIN Race Start time is 9.30am
RELAY Race Start time 11am
PRESENTATIONS, 12 noon

Race Courses
Long Course - Seaforth Beach, Ark Rock, Paddlers Buoy, Circuit of the Yacht basin, return to Seaforth Beach
Short Course - Seaforth Beach, Ark Rock, Bull Nose, Yellow Submarine Bouy, return to Seaforth Beach
GOOGLE EARTH PICTURES OF THE COURSE
Relay Course - Seaforth Beach, Ark Rock x 3.

Main Race Categories by kayak size which will even the field.
A Category: All kayaks above 4.8m or below 24kg in weight - e.g. Epic 18 and 16ft, Skua, Swift.
B Category: Kayaks between 4m and 4.8m - e.g. Contour 480 & 450, Malachite, Pelican, Napali, Solo.
C Category: Kayaks below 4m - e.g. Acadia 370, Breeze, Avocet.
D Category: Doubles
S Category: Surf Ski's

POSSIBLE SATURDAY PADDLE - 12/9/09

2009-09-10T17:01:00.004+02:00

Dear Fellow Paddlers;

Last Sunday was a miserable day for paddling (actually the conditions looked worse than they actually were but no one likes to paddle in offshore conditions).

This Sunday looks no better with strong northerlies as the next front approaches.

The forecast for Saturday is excellent at the moment. The plan is to meet at 08h30 at Bertha's.

Paul W

Kayak Race - Sunday September 27th

2009-09-06T16:35:00.003+02:00

Charity Kayak Race - Sunday September 27th in aid of SANCOB
Seaforth Beach at 9.30am
This is a mixed event with paddlers in craft of all shapes and sizes welcome, with a lot of emphasis on the taking part and the fun, rather than serious competition. Spot prizes mean everyone has chance of going home with something from the day. One of our local sponsors is providing prize money - www.enviropaedia.com

There are three courses this year - a very, very short course for the real recreational plastic owners (Fluid, Feel Free, etc), a short course of 5kms and a long course of around 10kms.

After the race we will have a selection of kayaks for the kids (old and young) to take onto the water in the beach area, so the whole family can come along and spend the day in this most beautiful part of the world, enjoying our beaches, and then heading to Boulders where the SANCOB team have organised lots more activities.

Cape Point trip - Sunday 30th August

2009-08-18T11:26:00.006+02:00

REPORT: A small but perfectly formed group managed a Cape Point paddle last Sunday and two new paddlers had the closest encounter with a Southern Right Whale I have ever been privileged to witness. We were sitting in some pretty choppy waters off the point admiring the view when the whale surfaced about 20 meters away from us. It blew a couple of times then dived. A minute or so later it surfaced and checked out our new paddlers from ooh, how can I describe this, right next to their double kayak! It then gently dived again in front of them, its tail descending into the water literally inches in front of their bow. A totally magical experience.

For the more adventurous paddler we will be going to Cape Point this Sunday. As usual the launch point is Buffels Bay in the reserve leaving at 9.30 but we will be meeting at Berthas car park at 8.45 and leaving from there. Please check this blog on Friday and/or Saturday for an update because any changes to the program will be notified there.
By the way if you have not purchased a Wild Card costing R215 which allows entry to Cape Nature sites then why not do so and save yourself some money. More info at http://www.capenature.org.za/wildcard.htm
You can also purchase a 12 times entry card for less than R100, mention of which I did not see on their web site.

Full Moon paddle pictures

2009-07-08T16:10:00.004+02:00

One could not have paid for a better evening than the one we had. Twenty kayaks set off on a dead calm evening and as we rounded the bullnose into the Bay the moon began to peek over Hangklip. We paddled to Ark Rock and then to Windmill Beach where we turned and rode the swells back in. Magic.

Pictures supplied by Estelle

Full Moon Paddle - Tuesday 7th July

2009-06-30T14:00:00.000+02:00

Fingers crossed for a clear evening. Leaving from the usual spot in front of Berthas, but at a later time so you may even make it straight from work, at 5.45pm - moonrise is 6.10pm. Please remember you must have a solid white light on you or the kayak once the sun has set. A head torch is perfectly acceptable.
Apres Paddle - we have negotiated a R10 a beer special around the fire at The Meeting Place.
The usual Wednesday paddle will still go ahead for those who cannot make Tuesday or indeed those who want to do both.

Dolphin show

2009-06-18T10:14:00.002+02:00

We went out from Fish Hoek and paddled towards Kalk Bay. It was the most beautiful afternoon, the sea was like a mirror. Near Harbour House about 400m out we first saw some seals, "bathing in the afternoon sun" and then we saw a huge school of dolphins. They were on their way from Muizenberg and swimming towards Simonstown. (It felt like a hundred or more came past us, or maybe it was just 20 going round and round.) What an experience!!!! - click on the pictures for large version.

André du Plooy

Wednesday 13th May

2009-05-13T12:19:00.002+02:00

Looks like this evening is the last chance for a paddle until early next week. Sunday is possibly outside the bounds of most paddlers skills wouldn't you say?

Cape Point Paddle - a cautionary tale

2009-05-04T10:49:00.004+02:00

A cautionary - not about paddling but being blase.

I paddle from Buffels and hike around the Cape Point quite often so we have a Wild Card to get into the park. Now you are supposed to have your driver's license with you but about 4 or 5 visits ago I left it behind but the gate person let me in. The next time I went I also forgot it - and again they let me in without a problem. Now when we go paddling I usually don't bring along valuables like a wallet containing the license so the next time I decided that the license appeared non essential and didn't bring it with me - and they still let me in. Yesterday however things changed, the guy in charge was hardegat and koptoe and simply would not let me and Margaret in without ID no matter how much we begged and pleaded. (I tried not to shout.) Since the wallet was not there either no cash was on hand to pay the fee so us muggins went back to Simon' s Town and paddled there with the 9.30 group and the rest of the Cape Point group, who were graciously allowed in, apparently had a terrific paddle in marvelous conditions.

William King, who took these pictures, said we should have paid!

Cape Point Paddle - Sunday May 3rd

2009-04-29T15:47:00.005+02:00

The forecast has changed and Sunday's forecast is best - so Sunday it is. As at Saturday midday the forecast is excellent.
Meeting time is 8.45 at Buffels to launch by 9am. As usual check this blog for any updates and to find out whether the weather is playing ball or call 082 556 9945 on the morning.

Paddle Pictures

2009-03-23T12:06:00.003+02:00

Some pictures from last Sunday's paddle. Of special interest is the new dapper style of paddling shirt that Hendrik is promoting.

Saturday Paddle

2009-03-03T15:26:00.002+02:00

This coming Sunday is Argus day so Simon's Town is closed down. Sunday's paddle will now take place on Saturday morning for those who can make it. The forecast for the morning looks good, wind building in the afternoon and Sunday looks windy for the poor cyclists.

Caption Competition

2009-03-03T13:47:00.007+02:00

Email sales@paddlers.co.za or add your caption here as a comment.

Sunday's paddle started out very calmly with a little visitor to Paul's kayak. Major mayhem ensued later of course as some paddlers bit off more than they could chew trying to surf some of the huge swells left over from the previous day's gale force winds and large swells. Much drinking and laughing occurred later at the Yacht Club and Silke's goodbye braai.

Buffels Trip report

2009-02-01T12:46:00.007+02:00

19.8km, 2hours 49 minutes, average speed 7kph including a beach stop, max speed on a wave 19.2kph. 14 paddlers.
Barbara, Bridget, Dave PD, Derek, Hendrik, Joe, Kim, 3 * Mark, Paul W, Trish, Trixie and Viv.
A light southeaster greeted us at Buffels for the launch and the first part of the trip to Millers was fun with the wind waves coming from the rear right quarter and enjoyable small runs to be had. Not to mention the marvelous views of the cliffs before Smitswinkel Bay and Smits itself. We stopped at the little beach below the caravan park at Millers Point for a swim and snacks by which time the south easter was building to its usual 45kph and the rest of the journey back to Simon's Town was excellent surfing and took what seemed no time at all. Joe was particularly pleased that his beautiful new wooden strip built boat did not sink on its maiden voyage!

Sunday 1st February - paddle from Buffels Bay

2009-01-29T14:16:00.003+02:00

This Sunday the fitter and experienced will be paddling from Buffels Bay in the reserve to Simon's Town. The forecast as of today is for a moderate south easterly which should be perfect. If you want to join in a car pool then meet at Long Beach car park, behind Simon's Town railway station and we will leave from there at 8.30am.
It's a half hour or so drive to Buffels so the plan is to be on the water at 9.15 and the trip should take around 3 hours.

As of Saturday it's still looking good so we will be going ahead.