Loreto Islands Challenge

Earlier this year I was in Antarctica. It is not often that one comes along unique 'organized expeditions' in very remote areas and with itineraries that require above average paddling ability and experience.

End of October, Ginni Callahan of Sea Kayak Baja Mexico is guiding a 20-day paddling challenge that combines all the islands of the Loreto National Marine Park, including the remote islands of Montserrat and Santa Catalina.

The remote islands of the Loreto National Marine Park are unique, scientifically significant, absolutely beautiful, and require special permits to visit. Very few people ever get to go, and no other kayak outfitter has ever brought a group to the most remote island, Santa Catalina. Ginni has been there before and is now organizing it for a group of skilled paddlers.

Because of the remoteness and the paddling distances for the crossings, the required paddling ability is BCU 4* Sea or equivalent or better.

This is another of those rare opportunities for skilled paddlers to join such a special trip. And Baja gives you an extra month of Summer.

For more information : Loreto Islands Challenge

The Birds

We (Justine, Mirco an I) were not the only ones that thought the Skerries would be a nice trip today. Paddling from Cemlyn would be using the very last of the ebb and hence today an early 10:00 AM start. Three seperate groups went out at about the same time. We were the last to go, but we arrived first. This late in the tide we decided to almost aim at the Skerries, today the shortest and fastest route.

At the Skerries the Terns are full-on nesting. Even staying on the designated path we got attacked by the angry birds. Justine held her dry bag over her head. Seems like a good idea. However her dry bag now has a pecking rash.

Upon leaving we met an inquisitive seal and had a small race to play in. With the building flood via West Mouse cruising back to Cemlyn. A beautiful day!

GPS Track

Magnificent Craft

Today it crossed my mind how magnificent sea kayaks can perform in conditions. With some swell remaining and a bit of wind, Penrhyn Mawr could only be very rough today. A beautiful sunny blue sky day reduces the 'fear factor' a lot. The sea kayak was not the limiting factor. My kayak can handle it, I am trying to more and more.

Justine and I continued to Parliaments' House Cave for lunch. There we met a group of four friends out for a rough days paddle. I think it is time for Justine to bring out a new film. Her "This is the Sea" films had a big influence on how paddlers view tidal races and what is possible with a sea kayak. But now the 'men with beards' are back ;-)