Sound of Arisaig – Improver Sea Kayak Expedition
Adventure LEVEL | 5 day(s) | Ratio 1:6
Overview
This expedition aims to be based on the world class coastline of the West of Scotland in the Stunning Sound of Arisaig. We will aim to paddle in fantastic locations such as Ardnamurchan, Loch Moidart, Glenuig, Loch Ailort, Knoydart, and the incredible white sand beaches of Arisaig and Morar. The weather, combined with the group’s aspirations, will ultimately decide on our destinations and itinerary.
This improver expedition is designed for those who may have already attended our Discover Sea Kayaking or Introduction to Sea Kayaking courses (or similar introductory training), and those who have already been introduced to the basic skills of forwards paddling and turning, on coastal journeys in light winds and gentle waves. You should also have experience of some overnight sea kayaking camping trips.
DETAILED INFO
AIMS
To introduce you to all the skills required for the adventure and pleasure of expedition sea kayaking
PRE-REQUISITES
Our Improver expeditions are aimed at paddlers who may have already attended our Discover Sea Kayaking or Introduction to Sea Kayaking courses (or similar training courses and experience of overnight sea kayak camping trips).
You will have already been introduced to the basic skills of forwards paddling and turning on coastal journeys in light winds and gentle waves. You should have a reasonable level of fitness for paddling up to 4-5 hours each day.
IS IT FOR ME?
This is perfect for those looking to continue developing their foundational paddling skills, whilst also learning the expedition skills of camping from a sea kayak; cooking outdoors and being self sufficient from a sea kayak on a multi-day trip.
On these expeditions, if weather permits, we may paddle for around 4-5 hours/15-20km each day.
CONTENT
Day 1 will involve a preparation day at Glenmore Lodge, where we will go through the full planning process for our week ahead, providing opportunity to learn about weather forecasts, tidal predictions, and the navigation skills we need to aid our decision making. We will also prepare the kit we need for paddling, camping and cooking, so we can take the time to ensure we will be comfortable and prepared for our multi-day venture.
We shall also go for a paddle locally at one of the fantastic nearby lochs in the Cairngorms for a ‘shakedown paddle’ – getting used to being back in a boat again and polish our foundation skills ready for the trip. Night 1 will then be spent at Glenmore Lodge (you can book accommodation and dinner for this night during the checkout stage of your booking), before heading to the west coast first thing on the morning of day 2.
We’ll aim to find a journey that balances the aspirations of the group and the forecasted conditions.
During the expedition, on days 2-5, we will make time to continue developing your personal paddling skills, noticing the differences in handling we find when we are in loaded boats and developing our tactics to deal with any conditions we find. We could look at navigation, keeping together as a group, and the myriad decisions that make for a great trip.
We should find time to consider the people, communities, and history of the area, which is steeped in Jacobite heritage, along with the abundance of wildlife and stunning landscape views.
Once we arrive at our camp spot for the night, having set up camp we will address the practicalities of drying gear and being comfortable. We will likely journey to a new camp spot each day. On day 5, we’ll return to Glenmore Lodge, with memories and stories from a fantastic week on the water.
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USEFUL INFORMATION
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Instruction
Use of kit from our Stores
In-course transport
On this expedition we’ll be wild camping away from Glenmore Lodge for days 2-5.
We ask that you arrive with your expedition food prepared – please see the expedition menu document below for tips and advice. There will be an opportunity on Tuesday (day 2) to stop at a supermarket/outdoor shop for last minute necessities, but please see this as a quick stop, rather than a big shop. Food is not included within the trip price, allowing you the freedom to meet your individual dietary needs and preferences.
DOCUMENTS
NEED TO KNOW
WHAT WILL I NEED
Glenmore Lodge has a large store of clothing and equipment. You are welcome to use your own equipment and just pick and choose odd items from Stores as needed or desired. Your Instructor will check that your personal equipment is suitable for the expedition.
GLENMORE LODGE CAN SUPPLY:
Sea kayak
Paddle
Buoyancy aid
Spraydeck
Helmet
Cag
Paddling trousers
Wetsuit
Wetsuit boots
Pogies/mitts
Dry bags
Tent
Stove & gas, bowls, mugs, cutlery
Sleeping bag
Camping mat
Towline
Laminated maps
Listed here are the essentials; this is not an exhaustive list and you are of course welcome to bring as much of your own equipment as possible.
EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NEED WHICH WE ARE UNABLE TO SUPPLY:
Headtorch
Off the water clothing
Insulating layers for paddling
Hat & gloves
Water bottle
Small personal first aid kit
Personal toiletries & medication
Sun cream (you just never know!)
Hat, sunglasses & cord
Insect repellent & midge net
Towel
Food storage containers
