Go sea kayaking

“Conditions were calm as we exited the harbour wall, and the glorious Pembrokeshire coastline offered protection from the light northerly wind. First up was a short session on basic paddling strokes and how to move the kayak forward and backward, as well as how to efficiently turn the kayak using sweep strokes. We practised what we had been shown before heading East in the direction of Solva, where we were soon enjoying the rugged coastline and following Amy safely negotiating rocks protruding from the water. The coastline around Pembrokeshire is stunning and is renowned for offering some of the best sea kayaking opportunities in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Once on the water, you see many aspects of the coast that cannot be viewed from land, and some of the rock formations are truly amazing.”

“When I started paddling, I always seemed to have trouble keeping up with the group. I thought I was the root of the problem and that I probably wasn’t cut out to be a kayaker. I focused on my “inability” — too little skill, experience, stamina and strength. I was frequently frustrated and paddled to the brink of exhaustion trying to keep up. I even ordered a new “fast” sea kayak, hoping it would make a difference. It didn’t. I progressed slowly, and over time, my technique improved. I grew to be a stronger paddler. I remember well the day I could paddle from the back of the pack up to the front paddler to say hello. But my early experiences did not have to be so difficult and discouraging.”