Soundoftheseagull,s

Talacre Walk

2012-01-29T07:42:00.000-08:00

Mrs Jones requested a walk so off we set,the master plan was to go along the coast and head up towards Gwaenysgor and home.The coast was fantastic with beautiful seas and warm sunshine what a day for paddling!Up along to Talacre and the Dulux lighthouse, well as featured in the advert.Back onto the coast road, a stop at the Bells, and a quick pint and we headed for home.Just over 11 1/2 miles, Mrs Jones legs were tired but a fantastic walk with sea views and hundreds of birds a twitchers dream.

Some paths made from shells

Hundreds of birds

Great sand dunes along this stretch

Its for Sale!

Is he from Star Wars?

Llangollen Walk

2012-01-29T07:21:00.000-08:00

Stayed at Ga,s on Thursday and we started the evening with a 2 1/2 hour night walk with head torches.No plans for Friday so Ga decided we should go to the tops at Llangollen and head towards Worlds End.Only 15 mins from Ga,s great views, squally winds and cold if you stopped.

The usual warm up that's straight up

A tad windy

Lovely views

Find Tara Ga,s dog!

Ian,s trip on the Conwy

2012-01-16T12:02:00.000-08:00

It started a couple of weeks ago and Mike started the ball rolling for today's outing.So I,m a firm believer in the Lead, Follow or go away type of planning, I was in the follow.Mails came and went and he had organised with Ian to do the Conwy, he,d not done it before and the tides were right.So times sent and I would be there,the night before a call from Mike and he can,t make it but Ian still wants to go so no problems and I met him there.I had that week the first signs of man flu but Ian was travelling some distance so you know what we men do and fight through such!It was a glorious day and the day before the cold snap we were very lucky a great way to introduce Ian to the Conwy River a glorious day and I felt better....ha! till Sunday when it kicked in again.

Conwy Castle

Nearly ready

A seagull..no sound though!

Lunch spot

Views from our coffee spot

Lovely light the sun got quiet hot

Love the reflections

What a place to live

JW,s New Years Eve Paddle

2011-12-31T09:43:00.000-08:00

What a great afternoon

Peter what a good egg

Pick up a Penguin

A rose between two thorns

These Tarans seem popular!!!

Local Paddle

2011-11-20T10:14:00.000-08:00

A social commitment on Saturday evening so a very local paddle.Rhos on Sea towards Kinmel Bay.
We usually go West but a pleasant change and with great conditions.
You never realise whats on your door step and other such phrases.

Poor quality but loads of birds out today

Each block was numbered they went into the 20.000,s

Late afternoon sunshine at Rhos On Sea

Lunch spot and a new experience courtesy of Mark, peanut butter cake fantastic

Sea Kayak.....Fishing?

Conwy in the Canadian

2011-11-20T09:55:00.000-08:00

Same river but different boat, we decided to take the Canadian out, a bit late on timings and a good session in order to get through the falls.
Our destination was to see the 13th Century Church, St Mary,s and take a look at the grounds to the Roman fort.
I,ve always pondered about this location and what a joy to explore.
Lots of information within the church and after a quick bite we shot back down to Conwy.
A different form of paddling but another great day on the water.

Loved the colours of the Yew Tree

Conwy to Llanrwst and back

2011-10-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

Mark had always wanted to paddle all the way to Llarwst so with the Spring tide we went for it a glorious day, loads of birds and also a large selection of aircraft both British and some fighter jets from the USA, although tide assisted a good 25 miles.

Dolphins off the Great Orme

2011-10-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

Dolphins at the Ormes

2011-10-16T09:25:00.000-07:00

Great to see Ian (Badger) again, we launched from the West Shore after sorting out some kit for Ga yes he had forgot everything apart from paddles so that was at least one thing, the only item we did,nt have was a PFD so risk assessment done.
Off and around the Ormes to witness at least 10 Dolphins some very close making it a spectacular paddle. They left and we were then followed by the resident bull seal, lunch and back a great day

Llandudno for lunch

How will it get down from there?

Launch spot

Just over 10 miles today

More rough,ish playing

2011-09-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

High winds forecasted again so with Mike joining us we had two choices, firstly a relative calm and flat paddle on the Colwyn Bay side or once again a play from the West Shore, Mike opted for the second option so off we set.
High winds again and great fun for the first hour when things calmed down and we all looked like blooming…….well helmets and full dry suits as the sea became calm and the sun shone.
Another good session and great for confidence building.

Mike and his own made cedar boat

and then it went calm

Trolley system, ok so we had a walk and he had to cross over some water!

Testing the new dry suit....no we don,t do Gortex!

Is that one of the guys from the Incredables movie?

.......and we,ere off

Overnighter

2011-09-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

The tides were right and the weather was looking good so with Ga not being free for the weekend we grabbed the chance for an overnighter.
A fantastic Thursday afternoon and its not often you see the Straits so flat.
Arrived at the bar to see about 6 from a boat who were BBQ,ing and fortunately not staying the night, also a group of around 6 in Canadians with the same idea as us.
Camp set up and off for some wood.
A great night and again a pleasant paddle back.

Loads of these about

A great fire developed and for some reason my Juru Malt whisky went!!!!!

A play on the West Shore

2011-09-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

A long overdue session, strong SW today's so off to the West Shore at Llandudno as it would be an inshore wind.
Very warm a great session with confidence and team building, surfing, rescues and practising with breaking water on our beams.

Penmaenmawr to Bangor

2011-09-04T13:16:00.000-07:00

A sunny start some amendments to the plan as the SW,s were picking up

A new piece of coast line the River Ogwen

Puffin and Anglesey in the background the winds died down for a tad

Never seen Puffin Island from this aspect

Penmaenmawr just around the corner severe weather warning came over the VHF F8,s on there way!

Ormes

2011-08-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

Ga was on tight time schedule saw a quick one today, launched at Craig Y Don off towards the Great Orme, low tide lots of blow holes a large seal knocked the rear of my boat, to the end and out then into the flow off to the Little Orme with the flow, back in just over 9 1/2 miles on a sunny morning, back home mid afternoon so everyone happy.

Approaching the Great Orme

Some rock and cave hopping

Headed out to catch the flow

Pier in the background

Soon arrived at the Little Orme

Conwy with Mike and the gang

2011-08-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

A very leisurely paddle today, Gareth managed to turn out but in the Canadian with his girls, riots affect so many things when police Officers have to cover the weekends.
Some winds affecting his boat but the girls did well, mixed weather but we all stayed dry.

SAGA meet

2011-07-25T06:44:00.000-07:00

Not JW's Menai challenge but one is as much as Peters first paddle since the second hip op on the same hip.
Very sunny and as usual Pete found it hard not to instruct Shaun and us on some breaking in and ferry gliding.
A brew at the Gazelle pub and back along the Straits along with the power boat and jet ski idiots.
Well done Pete

Add caption

An unexpected lumpy day from Rhos on Sea

2011-07-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

The forecast showed little wind and lots of sun so on my drive along the prom at Colwyn Bay I was some what surprised to see a very lively sea with loads of clopotis along the prom front.
I was the first at Rhos and on seeing the slipway and the dumping seas I decided not to get the boat off and await the gang.
We launched a short distance away using the beach.
We bounced out of Rhos, to big waves and swells.
It continued and as normal no photos, it eased off just before the Little Orme and we modified the trip and headed for the tip of the Great Orme and then lunch at Llandudno.
Very playful on the corners of the Little and Great Orme, we surfed in and had lunch.
Very sunny but lots of white horses out to sea.
Back in and we saw two paddlers coming in, a quick chat to ascertain that they had come around the Great Orme from the West Shore and from there conversation it sounded as they had an interesting paddle.
Bubbly again of the corner for us, seas in all directions and back in to reflect and be grateful for not getting wet, all in a days kayaking along that great piece of coast.

Launch site

Calm before the bubbly bit

Approaching the Little Orme

Lunch spot

MT launching

The left tip of the headland was well interesting

At last it calmed down so photos taken

Penmaenmawr, Puffin and Penmon

2011-07-02T11:20:00.001-07:00

A fantastic day with Ga,Mary, MT and Sean his sons first big paddle

Penmaenmawr with Anglesey and Puffin in the background

Dad's eh!

Always great to see Mary

Absolutely hundreds of Cormorants and Shags nesting Ga spotted a Puffin in flight

Loads of Mackerel today many put back too small BBQ Sunday will be good

Lunch at Penmon and choc icies all round from Mary

Met this guy, its a double with pedals, sail and paddles and £4850 that's a lot of money

Dad and son

Evening paddle

2011-06-27T13:52:00.000-07:00

A very busy Craig Y Don arrived at 1630 and lucky to find a space

At last he persisted and one in the bag well done

Joined by MT and Dave Fletcher

Smiley face!!!

Tea spot

Dave Fletcher

Nikon Test

2011-06-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

Sunset over Prestatyn

I went for it and on Friday ventured into the world of digital SLR,s.
Pondered for ages up to the stage of interneted out.
www or local that is the question, went to Cambrian Photographics in Colwyn Bay excellent service and as a consequence bought a Nikon D 5100 and a Tamron 18-270 lens.
I have taken hundreds of photos over the last few days but just a few to share.
I,m looking forward to getting to know this camera within the future.

Eat up lad you'll soon be as big as me!

Thought it was building up yesterday....the seas that it

One of our locals nesting in the front garden

Another local but no nesting thats been and gone!

A windy Rhos on Sea Paddle

2011-06-19T09:48:00.000-07:00

The Solstice gathering was cancelled the forecast was pants so we decided to go out locally due to some Saturday socialising by Ga, I took the Scorpio as we intended to do some practising with rescues etc.
The plan was to head East with the tide and then return on the ebb, the scenery is not that interesting so plan B go against the tide and wind and head towards the Great Orme.
That seemed fine in the sunshine and low if no winds at Rhos on Sea.
Wrong, as we left the shelter of Penrhyn Bay we were met with strong winds, head down and a slog, fairly choppy, no photos as I would have been blown back some distance, as we appraoched the Little Orme head we were met by bigger seas on the corner and yes our return journey would also bring big tides and winds over them to increase the conditions.
We headed East again and had some practise in more choppy seas.
MT celebrated his Wednesday birthday with some fantastic breakfast butties.
Home, BBQ with friends,first lighting of the new chiminea and allegedly I fell asleep in front of it!!!!

Wow does,nt it look great out there.........lol not

Relatively calm now as we go past the works at Ciolwyn Bay and my first chance to take some photies wish I had my GT

Lunch spot

MT a cake would have done mate Happy Birthday

Cadets, lots of shouting and Maa'm mentioned

My new chimnea

A geat end to the day

Straits

2011-06-11T12:01:00.000-07:00

Mrs Jones was out at Chester with the girls so an opportunity for another paddle, Mark and Mike were free so we decided to hit the Straits.
Mike had made a pair of Greenland paddles and had only finished them off at midnight.
Cute alert prior to setting off with the swans and signets.
Off to Caernarfon with the tide for lunch, spotted the small ocean going yacht wow!Lunch at the chuck wagon near the castle so I went for a full bacon, egg and sausage bap well I have been exercising!
Back on the water and with tide and wind we flew back and yes I had a go at the new paddles, fantastic I had dismissed some about 2 years ago at the Anglesey symposium although how I managed such after 2 mins bemuses me now.
Had about 10 mins with them and Mark also had a go.
Must try them again over some distance might be tempted to place an order.....Mike do you do discount for mates????......cash?????
A great sociable and sunny paddle again.

"Listen Mark the price includes VAT and delivery come on how many?"

And he,s off first attempt of making the paddles and the first water test

$40 million Australian to build crew of 12 and £160,000 to fill, came in last night we spoke to the locals one had piloted it in and had a tour, shown for charter on the www not sure who,s in it this time, perhaps there looking for some talent in Caernarfon, OK stop laughing.

Now that's what you call a great boat.......The Alaw I mean

A full hit bacon egg and sausage and some of Mikes home made bread, paddles and bread what can't he make

Lunch spot

Trefor.....again

2011-06-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

If at first you do not succeed then try again so here we are again, another sunny day so we set off for Porth Dinllean, bubbly again with swells but not as big as last week.
A cup of tea and some snacks at the Tyr Coch a very pleasant brew stop, the plan then was to partly go over the bay and rock hop back, winds picked up and the sea state picked up as we approached the coast, some confused sea, clapotis appeared some of the cause but as we headed out it became no calmer.
Must say the sea was very warm although I still had no desire to go in.
One of those quiet moments where you concentrate a lot.
I never had any wobbly moments but it was a long slog back in such conditions we reckon it was between a 3/4 and of course no photos on the said route.
Oh yes against the tide each way surely there must be some easy paddles out there.
Another great paddle and some aching muscles slept well that night.

Local Porthmadoc bitter £3.20 so dispelled some rumours re the high price of beer there...no only had a cuppa

Calmed down now, Ga descibed the water state as similar to waves the shape of iced gems very confusing, irregular and for such a long time.

Trefor

2011-06-03T02:42:00.000-07:00

The master plan was to launch from Trefor and use the outgoing tide to go SW as far as we could and then around 1700 travel back on the incoming.
The forecast was showing light winds so on travelling up along the A 499 coast road on glancing out to sea it was a surprise to see some white horses.
The sun shone brightly on my arrival in fact it was a scorcher , the harbour is fairly protected so I walked up to look SW, the sea was lively although there was no wind, we have had some high winds over the last few days so I imagine it was possibly the result of such.
Out past the pier and left turn Clive, no photos and its been a time since I have been in such swell, although close we were losing sight of each other.
I was fairly chilled and our plan was to head for Penrhyn Glas, the winds started to pick up and unfortunately they were behind us meaning that on our return they would be against us, and the tide.
After a while and feeling like a wimp I made a decision to head back, I was well within my comfort zone but considered the return journey.
Back now heading North with still big swells and some white horses; it was one of those paddles that you had to concentrate on and for me bang in a paddle into the beam wave/swell for support.
Back again and inbound coming across a local lad in a Necky, a chat and calm waters again, so back south again, only shortly to be faced with wind over tide.
Another alteration and we headed for home again, landed, Jetboil on for a brew to frustratingly see the sea and winds calm down with that should we have stuck to the original plan, but hind sight is a marvellous thing and for me safety comes first although I still felt like a wimp

A confused route but good training just over 10 miles

Ga chatting to a local

Conwy

2011-05-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

Although 21 miles assisted by the Spring tides

Loads of Sand Martins around although they soon cleared on our approach

Cute Alert

Loads of Herons about today also Egrets

Another cute alert

Ga is it Spring tides today???????

Conwy Castle

Cuckoo Tour

2011-05-09T12:52:00.000-07:00

Whats in the name well Ga and I decided to head up to the North West of Scotland, stopping off at Pooley Bridge to paddle Ullswater and break the journey up and throughout our stops during the 5 days and I mean each stop we would hear the regular and plentifully call of a cuckoo(s) in fact we gave up counting, so that's the reason for the title.

Day 1

We looked for a suitable launch spot but there appeared none available until we came across the Ullswater Sailing Club, on entering we came across the manager who warmly welcomed us and allowed both launch and parking. We had the wind behind us and of course against us on our return, a hot sunny day and the beginning of great scenery.

Views from Pooley Bridge

A great pub, good food and a fine selection of Jennings Ales which had to be sampled.

Day 2

Launched from Appin and headed out towards Oban, beam winds and seas for some time although it died down for a short time, we also managed to spot our first Otter, we caught it unaware coming up wind, a great site.
The wind picked up on our return, a bumpy and beam sea return.

Great Otter environment

Our second evening was at Glencoe and Gareth felt I had to sample the hospitality of this stunning place.Tatties, Neaps and Haggis for a fabulous evening meal, with some Skye Ales

That's what you call a room with a view, stunning

Day 3

Forgot to put the dam GPS on, about 15 miles today, the usual straight line picking up from the last time the GPS was on.

Had to be done, a stop to admire and give respects

Loch Garry it looks like a map of Scotland

Unloaded at the Waterhouse bunkhouse, Carbost, and headed out from Loch Harport, wind behind us which always makes you consider that dam return journey.

Another great view from the room

Met some great folk who forced us to drink late into the night!

A fine drop

Fiskavaig Bay

The return journey proved interesting with a familiar theme of beam seas but with gusting winds, 3/4's so we had to change course and head into the wind on several occasions, with the isolation and remoteness it does home in the skills.

Day 4

We decided to have a walk today, in fact if there was a choice it would have been to stay in bed, German beers, French wines and the finest of Scottish malts had taken its toll. We had put the world to rights with the assistance of a lovely couple from Dundee and a lady travelling alone and in the UK for 3 months.

Its rather daft to go paddling in such a state so we did a bit of a coastal walk.

Coastal path from Elgol along loch Scavaig to Camas Fhionnairigh, location of the wonderful Camasunar bothy. Sadly the bay is filled with plastic waste from the southerly winds. Bla Bheinn on the right in cloud.Cuillins on the left.

Butterwort insect eating

Sundew another meat eater

You could smell this a mile away

OK, whats this and is it man made?

Camp site for the night, a local farmer came up to warn us that we might be disturbed as they planned to use shotguns that night to bag some foxes.

OOOOps bad plan firstly it you intend to bullshit try not to with a firearms instructor and a guy who has a small holding, must have thought we were city folk, one shot and if you lucky that will be the whole valley void of foxes, unless you have a fully suppressed shotgun, .....next tale to try and put us off!!!!!!!!!!

Two very tired looking bros and guess what no shooting last night

Day 5

Loch Carron, forget Plockton, but this is a magnificent Loch, with lots to see. Joined by porpoises here.

Lunch spot

I can never get use to looking down and just seeing crystal clear waters

On landing we were going to camp locally until our friends decided for the first time to join us yes midges ahhhhhh, the day had been fabulous with warm blasts of air all day and drizzle on landing it was to be expected.

We headed out and found an official site only us and a camper van there, showers and toilet luxuries and again fab views

Breakfast before the journey home, Day 6 so sad

Can ye walk oot of here Connor? Aye, it's just them midges, I know I'm immortal but ...........

Lunch spot on the way home

Well as they same time flies when your enjoying yourself, its a long way we drove just over a 1000 miles and spent around £200 on fuel but shared its was well worth it.The combination of Pubs, Bunk house and Hotels with camping made it a brilliant option. We did,nt manage to bag the classics due to some high winds and we ended up trying to avoid some areas and of course taking walking gear always offers another option.
A magical stay with spectacular scenery a great trip.

Conwy to Penmaenmawr and back

2011-04-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

I was the first to arrive at Conwy, the sun was glorious but the winds were gusting I had noticed the white horses whilst travelling along the A55 at Colwyn Bay, it was registering 16 mph, yes you can never have enough gadgets.
It was an inshore wind and the plan was to go to Llaferfechan to the café so there was always a get out area if the winds increased.
Off we set with the last of the ebb, great to see some terns, the wind and tide was with us so we were pushed along , it started to get bigger and my thoughts turned to the return journey where we would also have wind over tide.
It did increase a tad so we decided to pull in at Penmaenmawr, whilst a short distance from the shore a large sea bass jumped in front, spectacular, off for a tea, coffee, hot chocolate and carrot cake for MTJ.
Back onto the water and within a few minutes a spectacular feeding display by the Terns it made the afternoon.
A hull slapping and a wet return, a good fitness session.

Conwy Morfa

A great display not as good as the feeding Terns though

Chocolate and carrot cake

Penmaenmawr a great cafe folks

Ga is there a foot in there

West Shore

2011-04-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

Due to DIY commitments my availability to paddle had been restricted, the weather had been glorious and I was biting at the bit to get out.
The only problems that the weather brings are it’s followed by holiday makers and the local roads and car parks become chocker.
So rather than spend an hour driving we compromised and stayed local going against the tide from Craig Y Don to the West Shore and then back with the tide.
Whilst waiting for Mark I had three kind offers of assistance to carry the boat down and although I did move my car to assist an offer of a cuppa from a caravaner.
Whilst rounding the Orme we could just about make out a small group of kayakers, they were like pin heads so far out and the sun light catching the blades ID confirmed they were paddlers.
Transpires it was the last leg of the circumnavigation of Wales http://northwalesseakayaking.blogspot.com/2011/04/cicumnavigation-of-wales.html
We were then shortly joined by Andy who had recently been to PYB and subsequently bought the instructors Cetus, he joined us to West Shore where he was picked up as he hadn’t planned to paddle so far.
Bobbly seas on the usual corner and wind and tide carrying us back, lots of activity on the Bay great to see the place busy

Joined by Andy he caught us up and asked if he could join us..no problems

Lunch spot at West Shore

Pier 2 Pier with Ga and MTJ

2011-04-16T10:02:00.000-07:00

Some photos captured by an old colleague who by chance was walking along in Rhos on Sea

Started off as a very sunny and calm day, tide was leading to some portage at the end HW 1000 so we went against it up towards Colwyn Bay, saw three paddlers assume they had come from Rhos, they had done a shuttle and were heading for Pen Mon near to Puffin.
We had time constraints both Ga and I had to be home for a reasonable hour so that’s why we ended up in Llandudno.
A quick pit stop for the toilet in Rhos on Sea and then we headed back towards the Ormes.
The wind had picked up slightly and I was feeling the cold, I had only put on a short sleeved top and my old cag.
Saw two Terns so that’s good news Spring is with us and up to the small bay for lunch.
A leisurely lunch with a chat and back on the water for Craig y Don.
As we turned out of the bay we saw the Plovers well I thing they are and the vast amount of star fish very fascinating.
Continued on and also two Gannets seen saw again roll on the Summer.
Nice to get out, just over 12 miles.

Craig y Don, Llandudno

The Little Orme

Rhos on Sea

Back towards the Ormes some slight wind over tide

Lunch spot

Loads of star fish whats going on?

A misty Little Orme

Afternoon paddle, Porth Trecastell to Rhoscolyn Beacons and back

2011-04-08T16:15:00.000-07:00

Family commitments over the weekend so with the opportunity to have an early dart from work we made our way to Porth Trecastell on the West side of Anglesey, its generally known as Cable Bay.
Some discussion as to venues as HT was 1400 hrs so some carriage at the end.
Glorious around Llandudno and Colwyn Bay but sea mist obvious on crossing Britannia Bridge, very spooky to see a bottom layer of sea mist covering the whole of the Llyn Peninsula.
Set off and quickly returned those small stones that are placed to jam your skeg which not having much sleep and a manly chesty cough did not go down well.
A pit stop and off we set, the plan was to turn right against the tide, rock hop and come back with the flow.
Just left the bay when we were met by a vertical display from a sea bass which leapt some three feet into the air.
For once the sea was not like oil and there was a great swell, nothing breaking but it looked very impressive.
Lots of mist and not a lot to see hugged the coast near to Rhosneigr and the mist gradually began to clear.
We came into Cymyran Bay which is alongside RAF Valley and had about 40 mins of a one pilot Hawk Jet display and I mean display. (Have I ever told you that I had 4 hours in one of those?)
Lots of aerobatics, upside down etc. and the best bit was when it went vertical, stopped and no engine noise at all as it appeared to drop. We both looked at each other and for a split second assumed the inevitable.jet noise back and the display continued fantastic.
Shortly after the conclusion of the show a couple of private jets took off assumed it was some sort of sales pitch.
The next thing that came into the conversation was our curiosity as to the access for 4 mile bridge which we quickly found and continued up to explore, and yes against the tide but its good training.
Fantastic scenery and we reminisced over Norway.
Back with the tide, a butty and coffee at Silver Bay again with spectacular weather and scenery and off towards Rhoscolyn Beacons, loads of seals on the rocks, we stayed away to save them diving in and paddled back in.
Wow sun and great conditions and its still only April

Just over 15 miles, a fantastic afternoon

A very misty Cable Bay

Coffee spot

Lynas to Cemaes bay and return

2011-03-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

Another fantastic day for paddling.
Although a frosty start from home showing 2c, clear nights are probably the reason but knowing that it would warm up made the cold start more than bearable.
Mark had not been on the Northern side of the Island so we launched from Porth Eilian and headed out with the tide.
The plan was to use the flow, lunch and rock hop on the way bag.
The sun shone and having stopped in Cemaes Bay for lunch we headed back.
The usual of the old shoe factory together with the old brick works and a first for me into Amlwch Port, a call of nature pending anyway.
You can see by the harbor walls that this port goes back some time.It was a prominent port for the export of copper to the USA and other World wide destinations.
Back in and a late finish of 6pm.
Another great day and Mark enjoyed his paddle in this area.

Porth Eilian

East Mouse Island

Lunch spot

The old shoe factory

Brick works

Lunch time views

Not a Mike Webb Rockpool this time!

Amlwch Port

Returned another great day

Penmaenmawr, Puffin, West Shore and return

2011-03-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

I was having a good run this week and the weather had been the main reason for such, I can’t remember such a fantastic week in March.
Gareth was free this Thursday and the tides fell right to do Penmaenmawr, Puffin , the Great Orme and return.
MTJ had some commitments but hinted he might try and join us so C8 was left open for comms.
This paddle ended up in three distinctive stages.
Stage 1 launching from Pen it seemed the week was getting better, clear, oily and sunny we could see the sand eels below us.
We couldn’t though see Puffin so some GPS work and a later decision as to whether we would go around Puffin clockwise etc.
Eventuality spotted the Island the later stages seemed to take ages, got near to the NW side and as usual it’s fairly shallow the sea state picked up, we were looking to pick up on the flow to take us to the Ormes which again was not visible.
Stage 2
A strange feeling to be out there, some wind over tide and short deep waves with hull slapping.
It’s not a problem no tensing up but it’s that head thing being out to sea with no landmarks still good to get out of the comfort zone and very much like a an open crossing feeling.
I could hear some intermittent transmissions on C8 but stopping was a problem as the wind immediately took you back some yards.
We thought that with the conditions MTJ would not launch.
A big slog to get to the Orme and as we approached a call from the coast guard MTJ was checking on our welfare.
A quick chat and I rang Mark who was on the West shore and he had ventured out fair do’s.
A quick stop and then, Stage 3 a very leisurely paddle back, Stage 3, wind and tide so flat seas again and we soon arrived back.
A great end of a paddling week for me, we had discussed this one on many occasions good to bag it although it had taken some effort.
Lots of birds and our first sighting of Gannets fantastic.

Puffin is there some where?

Clear waters

At last Puffin

Lots of sailing yachts which gives you a clue on the wind state

At flaming last the Ormes

What a difference it make tide and wind together

Back to Pen

Pier to Pier'ish

2011-03-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

Driving back from yesterdays paddle and seeing the conditions at Colwyn Bay and Llandudno with a good forecast we decided that there was no need to travel again to Anglesy and a local one would suffice.
How right can you be spectacular conditions which improved throughout the day, a pleasure to be on the water and what conditions to try out that Taran again, must take it out again it would have been ideal today.
Although my GPS did show a top speed of 98 mph so watch out JW.

Little Orme

Had a chat keen bird spotters met them last week great guys

Angel Bay saw two bull seals very friendly

Lunch stop

Get your own butties

Pigeon Bay for a brew stop

Mark scrambling

Return journey a spectacular day

Rockpool trials

2011-03-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

I met Dave a couple of months ago whilst at the gym he'd seen the rack on my car and we had been out on one occasion.
He mentioned an interest in Rockpool kayaks so arrangements were made to take a few out. Dave J was off and also on the Island and fancied taking the Taran out and a non Dave Mark joined us.
We launched from Dafarach and headed out towards Trearddur Bay, the tide was ebbing and as a result of the Springs there was a good flow.
I was conscious of Dave J in the Taran as it was bobbly but in fairness he did well demonstrating that the kayak has good stability.
He kept smiling so something was right.
There was unfortunately a load of sea mist out and it was fairly thick so we remained close to the shore and the objective was for the other Dave to try out the Gt and Alaw.
A stop for lunch and the sea had now started to flatten out.
Dave did not want to swap his Gt so I did with Dave's Taran, far too many Dave's about.
What a fantastic kayak, all it wanted to do was go and even with minimal effort it was clearly apparent that this was a fast machine, JW watch out ha!
A completely different feel to my GT, it had stability and even for a mere mortal I remained upright and dry.
Its a Ferrari rather than a GT and I encourage all to have a go, if its a kayak to cover distance this is the one and if you check my track we still did a load of rock hopping.
Its the first time I have paddled a kayak with a rudder and that took some getting use to but it turned well.
Back to Rockpool for a brew and I left Dave to discuss the final points as he was definitely sold on the GT.

Work on at the moment so be prepared to carry

It will look good, its a fantastic bay even without the alterations

Demo GT

A very black demo Alaw

On patrol

Dave in the GT

Another Dave and another Rockpool the Taran

Porth Dafarch

SOT's some in trunks...don't think so!

Kids and water looks good fun

The Adams Family house looking even spookier in the mist

Taran

MTJ

My go what a fantastic kayak

Lunch spot GT, Alaw, Marks Alaw and the Taran

Equinox celebrations

2011-03-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

This Equinox gathering had been planned by Ian and we were on the guest list along with Mike.
The caravan is in a fantastic position overlooking Red Wharf bay and also this time of year offers a warm bed for the night, although my ear plugs are now an essential accessory when in the same room as two other guys, it’s almost like the watering hole in the African planes.
Gareth and I decided on route to bag a paddle in on Friday and although some portage was inevitable at the end we launched from Penmon.
The sun shone and the conditions were phenomenal, off towards Puffin and met by the usual entourage of seals and also many young pups.
We moved out in order not to disturb them, there were many groups basking on the rocks, and it was so sunny that steam came off their bodies.
I have never seen so many on the island at least a hundred.
We then headed west no actual plane but just enjoying the conditions, we ended up at our usual stop near to Pentrellwyn, the old quarry.
A brew and then we headed back along the coast, through the sound and back to Penmon.
We arrived at the van and shortly after Mike joined us together with his chilli and rice, a few beers, well ok a lot and a late celebration for Ian’s 60th, cake supplied and made by Mike.
A leisurely start on Saturday and the weather had changed dramatically, winds and cloud.
Ian and Mikes second paddle this year so with the wind we headed again for Pemnon and headed SW towards Beaumaris, tide and wind against us but there was the advantage on the return leg.
A cupper at Beaumaris and Mike and Ian headed back, Ga and I slogged upwards and onwards and it was hard work the winds were strong but we continued on past the pier at Bangor.
It’s always a surprise to see how shallow the Straits gets, finally and with tired bodies we turned back and flew back with wind and tide.
As with the high spring tide there was also the low meaning some potage but well worth it.
Back to the van to watch the rugby which I will not make any further comment on and a very pleasant evening with a succulent piece of venison and stir fried vegetables followed by my caterpillar birthday cake for Ian and yes more beers, wines, ciders and whisky, great company once again.

Puffin Island ahead

Brew stop

"Lemon drizzle cake do yee contain any nuts"

High waters at Penmon

Bangor pier

Beumaris brew stop

Some carrying required

Who's that strangely dressed man?

More tea vicar

The Great Orme

2011-03-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

A sunny start and an opportunity for Mark to dust off the cobwebs.
Rock hopping over to the West Shore for lunch.
Loads of Guillemots and Razorbills on the cliff edges and busily heading in and out with food.
Also had the company of a seal prior to and whilst in Hornby cave, also sighted a very large jellyfish.
A very sunny lunch and in fact my face is still tingling.
Back around the corner heading home where the winds had picked up resulting in wind over tide making for a bouncy return journey.
What a great paddle

A very pleasant change these guys stopped for a chat and even had a set of binos and were taking in the bird life

Lunch spot

A blooming Rockpool gathering, Menai, GT and Alaw

Poor quality pic but this small kid was in a very precarious postition

2011 dry suit test, worked well flipping cold hands

Little Orme

Conwy with Dave

2011-03-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

February for many reasons including winds and the availability of company had proven to be a very lean month so lean in fact I hadn’t paddled.
This week at work had been as frustrating as the weather had been spectacular with both low and no winds and brilliant sunshine.
The call went out and due to numerous reasons including bad backs, shoulders and man colds it ended with the two Dave’s venturing out.
The tides were midday so some portage was expected so we decided on the easy option and went down the Conwy.
A little windy at first but as with this week they died down and the sun broke through in fact I have ended up with a red and glowing face.
Here’s to March!

Some practicing by Dave

Straits with John and Dave

2011-01-29T09:27:00.000-08:00

You know its cold when you eventually open your car door but cannot close it because the mechanism froze, the Karitec rack is frozen and on launching it takes about 3 mins for my skeg to defrost.
After that it was glorious sunshine and we shot through to the Bar with both wind and tide.
Lovely out of the wind and some sun bathing during lunch.
There's usually a catch and today it was the slog back against the wind.
Dave and John's first paddle and a good time was had by all.
Good to see Dave again it had been a while.
It makes having a hot bath all the more pleasurable followed by another first that will be the christening of my new BBQ, well I don't believe in "seasons"

Lunch parking spot

Sun over Caernarfon Bar

You have to have pictures of the Castle

Conwy

2011-01-21T09:55:00.000-08:00

Lots of birds out today, Lapwings, Curlews, Eider Ducks to remember a few, no Herons for a change?

Just a quick relief stop today

It was taken up by the tide as we saw it again some 3 miles up the river on our return journey

Love the light on the Castle

We were up there two weeks ago!

A very quick pit stop

Loads about some flew away from us and one hit the bridge crash landed dazed but OK

Winter Walk Carnedds

2011-01-09T06:41:00.000-08:00

A few firsts for me today, first time in this area, first time I have worn plastic winter boots, a shoe within a boot, started off well very comfortable although they take some getting use to, although my shins did start to hurt a tad at the end, wow what a great feeling on their removal similar to that ski boot sensation.
The other first was getting to the tops to find that our water bottles had partially frozen, the winds were incredibly strong and that chill factor obviously brought the temperature down.
At one stage the winds were so strong they almost blew you off your feet.
A very exhilarating walk in winter conditions, and the last first, first time my Montane extreme kit was used for what it was intended to do great kit.

Starting point and it was cold

The Roman Road

Wild Ponies

Puffin Island in the distance

More local ponies

Hit the snow line very icy and the winds started to pick up

Good job I chose my Montane extreme kit

The brothers grim!

Got there, water bottle out to find it had frozen

All I needed with that bottle was a slice of lemon and some gin it was more like a slush puppy

The camera did'nt do credit to the frozen fence

Winds now picking up must have been gusting in the 50's at some stages difficult to stand

A sunny Ormes in the distance

Bronze Age Standing Stones Ley Line markers

First paddle of the Year

2011-01-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

First outing of the New Year with MTJ, Peter and Mike.
Tides were not ideal and we wanted to keep it fairly local as Mike travels from the Wirral so Craig y Don near to the Little Orme, out with the tide HW 0900, make our way to Hornby cave and rock hop back.
Cold but once we got going I soon warmed up, usual around the Ormes with some lumpy seas followed by some periods of oily conditions.
Peter felt well, hip operation went wrong so we were guided by his pain tolerance.
He was fine so off to the West shore area for lunch.
A great first paddle of the year

Alaw,GT and Menai 18

Towards the Little Orme

Great Ormes in sight

Lunch spot

Marks Norwegian cup its part of a set

Winter Walk with the gang

2011-01-03T09:18:00.000-08:00

Its just an excuse for a gathering and a bit of a tab, its the one time we look frighteningly like ramblers, maps and trousers tucked into our socks.
A great way to take in the views from the Offas Dyke path and as normal we conclude such with an array of catering equipment, well anyone can rough it.
Even managed a carafe of coffee courtesy of the Jet Boil

Claire what does that guide say again?

Penycloddiaw Fort

Mast in the mists

Also 2 types of home made soups,bacon, coffee, tea, mulled wine and various cakes.

Conwy to Llanfairfechan, Ormes and back

2010-12-29T12:12:00.000-08:00

A Jones brothers paddle, off from Conwy, the wind picked up and we had a slight beam sea that wasn't in the forecast, about 20 minutes later we were on oily seas.
The plan was to go the Llanfairfechan for a cream tea, the cafe was closed so a quick piddle on the sand and off towards the Great Orme, again superb conditions, once at the Orme Ga suggested we bob around to Hornby cave and as normal those types of suggestions have generally led to something but hey calm seas what could happen.
I went into the cave Ga took some snaps and I came out, know a really obscure moment, Ga's at the end of the cave when I see his bow raise up and the stern appears to be sucked under in fact he's in the air and paddling into air.
His face is a picture and shout words to the effect of "What are you feckin doing"
Next thing he's over, I paddle in and we do a rescue, he's fine and not too cold or wet.
So what happened?
Apparently his stern got jammed into the rocks and he was lodged as the swell came in, we didn't half laugh!
Some lessons learnt, paddle leash Ga didn't have one so I had to go and find them, caution with caves and swell, well you never stop learning.

Some ice still about

A good fitness session and great December conditions.

Winter Walks

2010-12-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

I don't do sales well in fact both of us don't so another local walk.

No more snow :(

Winter Walk

2010-12-29T11:44:00.000-08:00

Boxing day bash and again a first, the Ormes frozen.

Avalanche

Winter walks

2010-12-29T11:27:00.000-08:00

Pre- Christmas walkw

I have never seen the sea freezing on the steps before

Snow on the pier!

Carrog gathering

2010-12-19T11:49:00.000-08:00

I had visited Gareths the other day and dropped some Christmas presents off as Mum was coming up on Thursday the contingency plan being that on their arrival if the weather closed in and we were unable to get there on the Saturday then gifts were there for them.We had planned a Christmas dinner for that night as Mum is intending to head back this week.As we are all aware the weather did come in although once again Prestatyn escaped the worst, a daily update and although snow at Ga's the lane was passable by 4x4.We made our way up and the road conditions up to Ruthin were fine followed by some stints with tracks within the road, we parked by the railway station and awaited collection.Turkey crown in the oven so off for a walk,and what a difference a couple of days make, very cold and the chill factor with the wind burning your face.....face ah yes two new woolen balaclavas bought so early Christmas presents for myself and Ga one modelled by Rhian. Nearly full moon with spectacular light on the snow covered ground. Back to prepare the lunch, brush off the icicles from Tara, some bubbly,beers,wine and port.

We managed to get back to the car this morning to a -9 Mum and Pete are now trapped as their car is up there, mmmm forward planning the lane is impassable by 2 wheel drive who knows they could be there for Christmas after all

Saw 4 Robins together and so close, quiet unusual I assumed they were very territorial

Walk at Ga,s

2010-12-17T04:40:00.000-08:00

A very cold and windy walk around Ga's place, winds 20 mph plus with sleet, but well worth the effort to blow some cobwebs away, also some snaps around the house.

Christmas cute alert

North Wales Police new shoplifting squad

Should,nt they be fighting?

Must have been hit by lightning