Today’s intermediate session saw a group of paddlers heading down to the sea for a coached introduction to surf kayaking session with Iain P.
After warming up with a paddle along the Meanders and onto the River Cuckmere, we stopped on the beach to talk theory, looking at all the various influences that need to be considered in order to have a safe and fun day out surfing. There was a lot to discuss including the weather and the impact of wind speed and direction, the tide and how it’s changing state might impact a session and places to surf and potential dangers to consider. Feeling considerably more informed we dragged out boats over the low-tide shingle and launched into the sea.
Typically, the water at this stage was flat. Just very small waves breaking on the shore although distraction from the lack of lively water was provided by trying to spot one of three seals popping their heads up to check us out.
On the horizon the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry came into view and we knew that it’s passing would result in some larger waves. The offshore north-easterly wind also proved helpful making surf waves steeper and soon we found ourselves with waves of around 2 metres to put into practice the theory we had been talking about.
These waves proved great fun, although a few of us, including myself, ended up having a little swim in the foaming waves as we pushed ourselves. Luckily the water still proved to be quite warm.
With the tide racing in we were able to paddle straight up the newly opened river mouth before leisurely heading back up the river and onto the meanders. Thanks to Iain for a great and very informative session today.
If you are an intermediate club members who wants to get out on the surf, keep an eye out for more coached kayak surf sessions in the near future.
