Treasna na dTonnta

A great weekend was had by all those who went to Clifden on the weekend of 19^th & 20^th May. It was the first outing since the lifting of the Foot and Mouth restrictions and there was and obvious desire to get on the water – almost fifty paddlers were on the water over the two days. We’re becoming victims of our own success – the launching of such a fleet needs a lot of car parking space.

The Galway coastline was looking at it’s best and we had some wonderful paddling around Turbot, Cruagh and Omey Islands. The paddling was organised into three trips – easy, for the less experienced, intermediate and long. Some of those on the long trip got more than they reckoned for on the Saturday – they did around 30 km and there were some tired bodies in the pub on Saturday night!

The two shorter trips were being led by those doing their Level 3 Instructorship assessment, Mary Butler, Paul Durnan, Seán Pierce and Des Keaney. This meant there was a higher instructing element than usual but it seemed to please those on the trips. We even persuaded some of them to get wet at the end of the day.

Des Keaney

I’ve had some niggling doubts about rudders. Not that there anything wrong with them, there isn’t – in fact, I’d never recommend a boat to a beginner or intermediate paddler if it didn’t have a rudder or skeg. I just think that by crossing the control wires, rudders could be much better. I asked Frank Goodman, designer of the Nordkapp and other VCP boats in "Ocean Kayaker" (the newsletter of the International Sea Kayaking Association). There followed some interesting emails from sources far and near.

I’d like to ask a question of Frank Goodman. I have very limited experience of rudders and would like his opinion on the question of reversed cables. I feel that rudders, as generally used in Ireland and the UK, promote bad kayaking practice. To turn left, we push with the left foot. The problem arises if the rudder stops working. The only way to turn a boat without a rudder is to edge it so as to reduce the waterline.

The paddler who paddles a ruddered boat is either unused to edging or unable to edge the boat, depending on their experience. I paddle a skegged boat and when turning left, I raise my left leg under the knee support, turn my body slightly left and drop my right leg to the floor. This cannot be done while pushing with the left foot.

It seems to me that if the rudder cables were reversed i.e. push with the right foot to turn left, then the body position would be much more natural and the boat could be edged while using the rudder?

Thanks, Des

I think you’re absolutely correct in saying that it would be a more natural movement if the rudder cables were reversed so that you can turn left by pressing your right foot forward, and not the left – and visa versa of course. The only slight concern would be how the reversing would be done.

Off the cuff, I think it should be fairly easy to add a couple of small pulleys to the front bulkhead so that the R.H. wire can be taken round to the left side of the foot pedal. However, there are so many different rudder systems and so many things that may clutter up the front bulkhead – like foot pumps, soft foam etc. that you’ll have to check out your kayak carefully before you decide what change in the system would work most satisfactorily.

Unfortunately, as you mention, when a rudder or skeg breaks, the paddler finds himself sitting in a boat whose characteristics are no longer those he’s been used to. Suddenly, his skill levels may be reduced to a point where he could lose control. This is why we must never give up on the idea of practice. I don’t mean the hard graft that must be undertaken by competitors if the want to be successful but both skill and fitness must be adequate for the level of paddling envisaged, plus that extra bit that will always be needed when the unexpected happens.

If your rudder does malfunction – and they do occasionally, then your fitness and paddling ability should see you through. So you do have to pull on one side for a few miles after your rudder has jammed, so what? Make sure your muscles are up to it.

In my experience, people who find they cannot cope with weather-cocking once their rudder has broken are usually novices who’ve bitten off more than they can chew. There must be a few kayaks on the water these days that MUST have a rudder in order to keep them safe but there may well be paddlers who cannot manage a boat once the ease of correcting windage with a rudder is taken away from them.

Of course it is possible to design a boat that doesn’t weather-cock. The original Nordkapp M hull did just that. But there are disadvantages: difficulty in turning being the main one. However, for serious expeditions where there is little chance of shore based backup and heavily loaded kayaks out for a month or so cannot afford to carry every possible spare part, the advantage becomes overwhelming…. Nothing to break!

The use of rudders and skegs seems to inflame passions in the canoeing world. I don’t know why. In fact it’s been suggested that no-one uses rudders in the UK and to mention rudders is blasphemous here! Our own production figures belie this though. We put our first rudder – an understern blade with a tillerbar foot control on some of the first Nordkapps built in 1975 and then manufactured an overstern model based on the design Paul Caffyn used on his 1982 circumnavigation of Australia. The only Nordkapp available to him in New Zealand was the S hull type which, of course, weather-cocked slightly in a crosswind. Slowly, rudders were replaced by skegs as they were less complicated than rudders and of course paddlers knew that a good technique with a paddle could turn a well designed boat perfectly well with the skeg raised.

Well, I’ve digressed a bit, sorry! But you are quite right. Use your rudder by all means and use it in a way that interferes least with your forward paddling stroke, which, after all, is the most important element in sea kayaking.

Best wishes,

Frank Goodman

I've just read the ISKA newsletter and saw your query on reversed rudder cables. First off, I have to say I am NOT one of those rabid Kiwi rudder people that cause arguments in sea kayak newsletters. I use a rudder, but if other people choose not to, that's their choice. Right, that's that out of the way. I swapped my cables over for the very reasons that you mention. Steering the boat is the same whether or not the rudder is deployed. Lean, sweep and push. The only difference is that with a rudder it is faster and less effort.

The rudder makes a huge difference in any wind, which is always the case down here. In a following sea it is a joy as all the effort can be put into catching rides, with no lose of forward speed by using a stern or bow rudder stroke. Limitations of a rudder are:

1. When turning the kayak while stationary the rudder slows the turn.

2. When reversing it can cause confusion.

3. They can ride up in kelp, but a good design allows them to be raised and lowered with one hand, in a flash.

4. In a rescue situation they could be dangerous to a swimmer. For this reason I always teach paddlers to hold onto the bow.

I believe that most of the problems people have with rudders jamming etc. is a result of poor design. I have had my current rudder (home made) fitted for approx. five years and have NEVER had a problem. It gets a squirt of CRC once a year. The cables are stainless steel and the pedals (also home made) don't slide, they pivot. This provides a solid bracing point and a mounting for a foot pump.

The argument that rudders detract from paddling skill is well founded. It is for that reason that when instructing I insist on pupils learning strokes without using them. I passed my BCU advanced prof. without one and most of the people I paddle with are more than competent either way. The difference is that with a rudder fitted they finish a day with both arms the same length!

I've raved on long enough. Possibly food for thought.

John

Hi Des,

On crossed cables: in my experience, crossing cables may be difficult to do in a fibreglass boat which is already fitted out. It is only necessary if you use sliding pedals. With sliding pedals, you are normally pushing the pedal on the same side of the boat as you should be lifting with the knee. If you cross the cables you would reverse this, allowing you to edge the boat properly.

It would be a lot better to use parallel cables, but fix the rudder pedals in place. On my fibreglass kayak, I built a plywood and fibreglass foot-plate with little flippers under my toes to operate the rudder cables. I was then able to fit a foot-pump into the foot-plate. A full foot-plate allows you a secure place to brace your feet and helps with all strokes, including sweep strokes and rolling. Sliding pedals are just a nuisance when you want to brace your feet properly.

Andrew

I recently joined the International SKA where I read your question about reversing the rudder cables, push left to go right. That is the way I have my boat set up and everything you said about it is true. It feels more natural when turning and helps to edge as well as use the rudder.

I was surprised at the comments in the reply regarding how to reverse the cables. On my boat I crossed the cables at the rudder so there is no need to interfere with the pedals or the cable entry points.

Don

The Come and Try it Weekend has always had a special role in the affairs of ISKA, different from all the other meets, a job to be done as much as a little break from life's labours. That role has been directed mainly at offering the river paddling friends of ISKA people the chance to see what it is all about, and has in the past been somewhat successful at fast-tracking newcomers into the activity, a useful developmental tool for the business of Irish sea kayaking.

Experimentally, that role was hugely expanded at Kinvara in September this last year (29 boats instead of the usual 10 for hire), and the experience was truly "educational". If we are going to go forward with the CaTitWe in this newly upgraded position as an important device for the development of sea kayaking in Ireland, , we are simply going to have to raise our game a bit, one and all. We are now thinking of it as a twice yearly event.

What it boils down to is that two or three dozen newcomers, inevitably some of them very weak paddlers despite dire warnings in the promotional literature, and despite relatively sheltered water being available at paddling venues, need a lot of minding, not just on the water, but before and after as well.

This requires not only that our "management" raise their organisational / safety game to the same standards as those applying at Symposiums, but every half-way experienced ISKA type needs to help out too, in every way they can.

When we only had single figures in strangers to cope with, the one or sometimes two weaklings could be identified, isolated and specially minded, but with the much bigger numbers now in question, different rules apply. Lessons learnt in Kinvara were a mixture of organisational and operational, and I recount here some of the impressions of the people most closely affected :

There were three trailer loads of boats and ancillary equipment, each owned and supplied by a different individual. Each item of equipment needs to be individually accounted for, counted out and counted back in again. Each boat and each paddle should have a sticker, and each canoeist individually recorded as to other gear borrowed.

This requires one warm body per trailer, a job entailing preparation as well as liaison with the equipment owner, and then the bit of hassle each morning and each evening of the weekend itself, and perhaps doing the same trip as the trailer. This is only fair to the gear owners. The Kinvara gear all made it home again, but in some cases days and weeks later. This job cannot be left to gear suppliers or trip leaders, who are otherwise busy. Gear suppliers, almost by definition, are trip leader material.

There should only be one group generally per trailer, (which means about three groups) though circumstances may sometimes permit more flexibility than this. Each newcomer is signed into and out of their group, with their gear, and ISKA regulars can help by being a bit organised too. Here are some suggestions :

• Communicate your choice of trip to the group leader at the earliest time. Please don't just choose at the last minute and turn up.

• Trip leaders spend their time counting the group. You can cause mayhem by just tagging along, unannounced.

• Always attend the trip briefing so you know where you are going. Never assume early information is still accurate, or that plans haven't changed meantime.

• If you have a radio, bring it, make sure the leader knows you have it, know how to use it, and know your call-sign.

• Ask for a job, and do it.

Some put-in-points tolerate only so many cars.

Some trips (generally those for the weaker groups) need more helpers.

You may be very much needed elsewhere.

Unless we are stretched and need you in which case we will say so, you are perfectly free to go on your own trip with your own pals, but please say so to someone in charge, and stay separate. For instance, put in from somewhere off on your own, and above all don't get mixed up, or appear to get mixed up with a group being led, on land - before or after, or on the water. An example of this is never to paddle up to or through a group being led.

Whether joining in or doing your own thing, remember, never confuse a situation. Often groups are struggling to keep control of the situation, often with the leader a bit stretched, or worse, if the leader is a trainee being "blooded" they may defer to you, wrongly, however understandably. To stretch this point, if you see some late-arriving seasoned old salt wandering about, causing endless confusion in their wake with their laid-back nonchalance, like a driver at 30 in the outside lane of the dual carriageway, tell them where to get off, wise them up.

Remember that the most important, the most trying, and the most dangerous time of the weekend is the Saturday morning when the relative competence (and in some cases complete inability) of individual paddlers has to be identified, graded, and reported up the ladder. The necessary decisions have to be made. This needs absolutely everyone watching and actively helping.

We try to grade as much as we can before we leave the shore, and as much as we can even before we leave home for the weekend, but a lot (the most crucial bit) needs doing in the first important hour on the water. That is why we try to get a couple of groups to meet at lunchtime, and any necessary transfers of personnel arranged. All this gets gradually easier as the weekend progresses. As people realise there is no hiding at sea, spoofing diminishes.

You should be part of the newcomers' learning experience at every opportunity. When they are getting organised, spot if they aren't dressed warm enough, whether they have lunch and a drink with them. If they drag boats, offer to help lift them, don't give out. Make them shelter behind something at lunchtime. Get them moving again before they freeze. Offer advice at every opportunity. Be assertive. Many don't know the benefit of a good low brace in a following sea, never mind a proper stern rudder, and none of them know why the boat keeps turning up to wind, never mind how to deal with the problem. They want to learn, or at least to experience as much as possible, in a short weekend, so you owe it to them to teach these elementary things to them, to pass on your bit of wisdom to fit the occasion.

Be safe, be ready, be competent, be equipped. Don't be a part of the problem, be part of the solution. For instance, own, possess, and know how to use a tow-line. Anyone who goes to sea more than a handful of times, who is aspiring to be rated as even a competent group member, who doesn't take the trouble and expense to acquire and learn how to use a tow-line, is making a statement. It’s a most unacceptable statement, at its most unacceptable at CaTitWes, that they are prepared to accept help if ever in trouble, but never prepared to give similar help, ever, to anyone.

Attend the debrief. Saturday and Sunday. We really value what you say. We cannot improve without criticism, yours and our own. Briefing is necessary but debriefing is truly valuable. Briefing deals with what might happen, but debriefing deals with what has just happened (and for "happen" perhaps, or at least sometimes, read "go wrong").

There is 100 times as much learned at the average debrief as is learned at the best of briefings. The new discussion forum on our webpage may be of belated use here if you miss the actual debrief. Scaoil amach é. Grumbling and growling in dark corners is utterly pointless.

Come, and enjoy it!

Very good condition, front and rear hatches with new covers, yellow deck/white hull

An interesting article in the September/October 2000 edition of "Walking Ireland" is "Maps for Walkers" by David Herman. In it, he list a number of problems with the 1:50,000 series and the Ordnance Survey took the opportunity to respond.

David rightly points out that the Ordnance Survey has brought Ireland from one of the worst mapped countries in Western Europe up to the standard of most and a lot better than some. While this is a huge achievement, there remain some problems.

How I agree with this one! It’s a familiar experience to watch a 1:50000 map disintegrate in a condensation damp map case.. A map only lasts a couple of trips and at around £5 a copy, it simply is not good enough. As he says, laminated versions are available but they cost around £12 each. The coast of Ireland needs 39 maps so it will cost you £468 to get full coverage. Ouch! The OSi intend to review fitness for use against cost.

The next most important omission is the lack of sea features. This isn’t pointed out in the review, probably because it isn’t that relevant to walkers. A whole island is omitted near Ballyvaughan. The half inch maps are much better in this regard. We’re not expecting chart detail but the OSi could help recreational water users by adding water details.

Yes, absolutely agree. You have to judge from the contour line.

Absolutely. At the last meet in Kinvara, three sheets were necessary. Try folding that into your map case. The OSi say this is being addressed in the current revision cycle.

A major problem with the 1:50,000 series is going off the edge. This applies to drivers, cyclists, sea kayakers or anyone who covers a good distance in a day. I’ve been in situations where I’ve paddled off the map after going for ‘just that next headland’. Once around it, I’ve had a solid line of cliffs in front, a tide race behind and a vague idea that there was a bay somewhere ahead. I now put a 1:250,000 in the back of the map case. It’s also useful for identifying that ‘big mountain’ 10 miles away. Bartholomew used to produce a marvellous quarter inch (1:253,440) with the most fantastic detail but sadly it’s now out of print. The best currently available is the OSi Holiday map series which covers the country with 4 maps.

NAKC 2000 (North Atlantic Kayak Challenge) was to be a solo unsupported kayak expedition. After three years planning and preparation it was now time to set off.

Our base station for the expedition was to be at Frank’s home on the Isle of Wight.

In early May, the special kayak was shipped to St.John’s in Newfoundland which was to be the start point. A couple of weeks later, both Jim Rowlinson, Project Manager and I left for St.John’s.

We went out for a recce in 1999. It was then that we sorted out a building for the kayak and stores, plus accommodation for ourselves. We achieved our aim and much more

Our first problem was the Unions on the dock. Jim was good… he managed to bring our own truck onto the docks to collect the kayak and take it to the location outside the town. There were a few other problems but we overcame them.

The communications by laptop to the base station was checked. Poor Frank had to stay up at night because I had changed the day around: this was to enable me to paddle at night and sleep during the day. The main reason for this was to allow me to see navigation lights of other ships and steer out of their way. I was so low in the water, radar did not work, so nobody could see me during darkness.

The weather was the deciding factor as to when I should go, I needed five days of westerly winds. On the 15^th June, the weather was right. I checked the tides, it was perfect, at 8 p.m., an evening start.

The previous day on the 14^th, saw us testing on the water for the last time. I just wanted to check that I had the trim right and that everything was in order. Lunch time on the 15^th saw us on the docks doing a final check on the communication Stratos (the company supplying these) wanted to just recheck everything: being involved in an expedition of this type was a first for them. They were a great bunch and nothing was too much trouble for them.

At 8:15 p.m., I pulled away from the pier to the cheers of over three hundred people, paddling out through the narrows, I had an escort of four sea kayaks and a small fishing vessel with a film crew.

Once outside the narrows, these left me and I was on my own. Weather conditions were ideal and darkness slowly approached. One last look at the land disappearing, I switched on my navigation lights and looked forward to the next few weeks. During the night, I had something to eat and drink and watched the long liners (fishing boats) going to and fro from St.John’s. Out of curiosity, I checked my speed on my GPS and was very happy to see my speed was 3.5 knots.

At 7 in the morning, I decided it was time for bed, so I stripped off to just my shirt (supplied by Keela) and got into my sleeping bag. I awoke at about 12 noon and switched on my communications but found it wanted my password: something that it was not supposed to require. This meant that I had to phone Jim, back on the shore, to get the password. It was then that I noticed water in the cabin. On further investigation, I found water coming in through the bilge. I opened the window in the cabin door to check the cockpit, only to see that water was already over threequarters of the way up the door. There was a problem, to put it mildly!

To cut a long story short, I was forced to take to the life-raft after first tying it off to the kayak. This would make a bigger object for my rescuers to locate. They say things come in threes. Within no time at all, the life-raft was dragged along the side of the kayak, causing the bottom to rip. Quickly grabbing as much safety equipment as possible, I cut loose. With my VHF radio, I sent out my ‘maydays’; this all happened in seconds rather than in minutes. As I was getting myself settled in the life-raft, it tipped over. The only good thing about this was that I could see the damage to the underside of the raft.

Upon righting the raft, I clambered back inside only to find I’d lost my VHF, my knife, half a paddle and other items of kit. On seeing a fishing buoy, I headed towards it; between paddling with one blade and emptying the raft, it took quite some time to reach. It would take a few minutes for the raft to fill. Once tied onto the fishing buoy, I sorted out a routine for emptying water from the raft to keep it afloat. Dressed only in my shirt and a hat, I had to get warm so I used two sky streams which I inflated, placing me under my bottom and one up inside my shirt.

The water temperature was about three degrees above zero. During the next thirty two hours prior to my rescue, I witnessed three icebergs! – and one boat, at which point I sent off a flare, unfortunately to no avail.

During the twilight hours, I heard the sound of a C130 Hercules transport plane. At this point I had to decide which flare to use, the day or the night one, so I decided to use them both. The plane reported my position to the coastguard ship "Cowley" and within 30 minutes I was on board in a purpose built heat bag, drinking tea. My condition was cheerful but I was suffering with numb feet and mild hypothermia.

The thing that had kept me going whilst in the raft was anger and frustration that three years planning was lost to a small piece of kit. I planned next years attempt and the changes I would make.

After many weeks my feet are about 90% recovered from their ordeal. I still have no feeling in my toes but this will return.

At this point in time, Kirton Kayaks are building my next kayak and I am excitedly waiting for next June when we will succeed. This is due to the support of all the sponsors who have supplied equipment and given me great encouragement. For this, I thank them and also thanks to John Ramwell who is one of our adjudicators and secretary of the ISKA.

Our chosen charity is Rainbow and TyHafen, both children’s hospices. Information can be obtained from Jim Rowlinson on 01530 831142. Also information about the Challenge can be found on our web site which is www.outdoorchallange.co.uk/nakc2000

Having said all this, we are still hoping for a financial sponsor who can name the kayak and give us that extra backing that we so desperately need.

The attempt is underway again this year. The kayak is due to arrive in Newfoundland on the 11^th June. Peter and Jim fly out on the 8th of June - two days have to be given to our communication sponsor ' Stratos' to fit their equipment, a couple of days to load and do a final test of all 'systems' and it will just be then down to the weather as to when Peter will begin his paddle.

With regard to the 2000 attempt, I found it difficult to understand how one can undertake a three month non-stop paddle across the Atlantic without spending a serious amount of time in a sea trial. A ten day to two week trip would seem to be essential to eliminate any ‘bugs’ in the boat and equipment. To the best of my knowledge, this didn’t happen last year. Surely, if it had, the problem with the bilge pump would have been sorted?

They seem much better prepared this year. To quote Jim Rowlinson "Peter has spent a week at a time at sea, we kept pulling him in for various reasons and of course to make adjustments where required. But until that Wednesday evening the seas were quite flat. In fact we stayed in Holyhead a week longer than we planned to. The kayak weighs fully loaded 580 kilos.-- its fingers crossed now, the kayaking world could do with some recognition.

Best regards Jim

Lets hope that we can all meet in Ireland"

Peter and the team have our best wishes for a safe and successful journey and we hope to greet them in Ireland in August.

Since the creation of VOICE, water has always been a major issue for the group. We continue to actively campaign for cleaner water and to raise the risks associated with fluoridation. As part of this work we created an exhibition entitled the ‘River Catchment Awareness Roadshow’. As part of the exhibition we ask critical questions designed to inform you about the importance of water protection and conservation. As readers of this magazine and users of our waterways you will be only too aware of the quality of our water.

1. How much water is available for our use?

Despite the abundance of water on the Earth, only a tiny percentage is available for human use. Most water is salty. Only 3% is fresh, and most of this is underground or trapped in icecaps.

2. What is river catchment?

Instead of looking at each stream, river and lake separately, a "catchment" approach looks at where the water starts and ends and everything in between, the various uses and abuses of the water, and finally, the impact on the plants and animals living within the catchment area. In Ireland there are over 400 catchments, and 20 of these span over 80% of the country. The Shannon catchment is the largest and covers an area of 14,700 km.

3. What is sustainability?

Sustainability requires the present generation to leave the environment in as good, or better, condition than it found it. To protect our water for future generations we must use it wisely, and ensure that we allow enough of time for it to replenish itself. Sustainability also means protecting water against pollution.

4. Where does our drinking water come from?

Most of our drinking water comes from surface waters (rivers and lakes). This is the same water into which treated sewage water, agricultural runoff and industrial discharge flow. Although all waste is treated, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed in its Millennium Report that 42% of group water schemes and 7% of Local Authority water supplies do not meet the national drinking water standards.

5. How much water do I use a day?

On average, each person uses 142 litres of drinking quality water per day. Of this amount 50% is flushed down the toilet and less than 10% is used for drinking or cooking. Each flush can use up to 9 litres of water. Every time you turn on the washing machine you use 100 litres, and in the summer a garden sprinkler will use over 900 litres per hour.

6. How do I pollute water each day?

Everyone contributes to water pollution. Household chemicals, paints, cleaners and oil are all pollutants. Pouring these substances down the sink or toilet does not remove them; it merely moves the problem downstream. You can have a major impact on reducing pollution by simply thinking about the impact of pouring substances down the sink. We live in a society where the attitude is very often ‘my rubbish won’t make that much difference’.

7. How can I conserve water?

Although we ‘enjoy’ so much rain it doesn’t mean that we have an abundance of fresh drinking water. All water must be treated and this is expensive, there are too few treatment centres and an ineffective distribution system. For example, in Dublin, 36% of the treated drinking water is lost through leakage in the pipes. There are lots of things you can do to help conserve water, including taking showers instead of baths, only using the washing machine and dishwasher when you have full loads, and don’t leave taps running unnecessarily.

8. How can I prevent pollution?

Pollution can be prevented at all levels, and in the household a few simple changes can have a major impact:

• never pour harmful chemicals or medicines down the sink or toilet;
• use phosphate-free washing powders;
• use compost to fertilise the garden;
• do not use pesticides or herbicides in the garden;
• use environmentally friendly chlorine-free household cleaners;

1. How can I make a difference?

Join VOICE and encourage your family and friends to do likewise. Your contribution will ensure that we can continue to campaign for a clean water supply. Contact the Office for subscription details (telephone: 01-6618123, email: avoice@iol.ie) or visit our website at www.voice.buz.org

"…the rivers are our brothers and yours, and you

must henceforth give the rivers the kindness you

The ‘River Catchment Awareness Roadshow’ is currently on display at Sligo County Council until 30^th. April. For further details contact the VOICE Office or ENFO.

On Sunday April 22^nd. VOICE will hold its annual Ritual of Respect for the Earth in the Iveagh Gardens (rear National Concert Hall, Earlsfort Terrace; access also from Clonmel Street, off Harcourt Street) at 12.00 noon. Everybody is welcome. Please join us as we celebrate the Earth.

Second Hand 'Perception Orca Sea Kayaks'.

Royalex construction, hatches front and rear, yakina alloy footrest, padded back support, large cockpit.

Fitted to take rudder.

Prices from £550.00 to £600.00

Contact Gerry Collins @ Great Outdoors on 679 4293 or

greatod@indigo.ie

Many athletic people, accustomed to using their legs for transportation, are nonplussed when they are faced with their first 15 mile paddle. Why is it that some people can paddle strongly all day while others burn out in an hour or two? What are the day-long paddlers doing differently? Long-distance kayaking like cycling, skiing, hiking and other endurance pursuits, requires conditioning, training, and above all proper paddling technique.

In this essay, I'd like to sketch the elements of an efficient kayaking stroke, so that anyone, regardless of size and strength, can paddle confidently over many miles.

Efficient paddling doesn't require a great deal of upper body strength.

Strong-armed people might appear to be strong paddlers at first but arm-only paddlers rarely go the distance. Some conditions do require power - surfing, sprinting, and paddling against a strong wind. But most of the time on a kayak trip you'll be trying to keep the boat moving forward at the cruising pace of 2.5 to 3.5 knots.

Beginning kayakers are all arms when they paddle. All they can think about is pulling the paddle through the water. Beginners seem to be clawing at the water. An accomplished paddlers stroke looks longer and smoother.

Even when the beginner and pro paddle at the same stroke rate, the pro's kayak moves faster, while the pro seems to be hardly working.

What's going on here? The paddling pro is working with a different model.

Rather than thinking about pulling the paddle through the water, the pro thinks of the paddle as almost stationary and tries to pull the kayak past the paddle. The long kayak paddle is used as a lever to move the boat forward.

Using leverage to pull the kayak past the paddle allows the experienced paddler to employ every major muscle group including the lower back, abdominal muscles, and thighs in moving the kayak forward. For a really powerful stroke, forget about paddling through a liquid. Think of the water as viscous mud. If you pretend that you are levering yourself along through a sea of mud when you paddle, you'll have the elements of a power stroke.

Here are some points of concentration.

Try planting the paddle in the water as far forward as you can reach with a slight forward lean. Push forward with your upper arm at jaw height until the pushing arm is almost straight.

Use your lower arm as a fulcrum. This increases the leverage in your paddle stroke and prevents you from pulling too far back with your lower arm. Keep your feet on the kayak's footbraces while you paddle. You need something to push against so you can pull the kayak along with you. Near the end of your arm extension, a little torso twist combined with a forward thrust of the shoulder adds extra power to this stroke. End your stroke with your arm upper nearly straight and level with your shoulder. Your fist should be at chin level, and your thumb should be at the centreline of the kayak deck.

Keep a relaxed grip on the paddle. When you grip the paddle too tightly you feel tense, your forearms tire and cramp and you promote tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. If your hand falls asleep during or after paddling, or your wrist and forearm are swollen and sore from paddling, you're probably gripping the paddle too tightly. If you are using a feathered paddle, and you think you are developing carpal tunnel problems, try adjusting your grip on the paddle shaft so that very little wrist movement is needed to feather the blade. Always try to keep your wrist, forearm, and shoulder in a straight line for the pushing part of the stroke. Try stretching tight forearms by bending your wrist while pulling your fingertips towards your elbow.

Most kayaks have flexible back rests to prevent back injuries. The drawback to this kind of backrest is that they give little lower back support. Consequently, people who lean back in the seat are quickly uncomfortable. Leaning back or slouching while you paddle destroys the symmetry of your paddle stroke too. A slight forward lean while you plant the paddle gives you a longer stroke and lets you rest your back.

Sitting up straight strengthens your abdominal muscles and allows for the torso twist and shoulder thrust that make up the efficient forward stroke. With practice, you can learn to "hang" horizontally on the stroke and you'll feel no lower back fatigue at All. If your back begins hurting, simply lean and stretch forward on the next stroke. Stretch your neck and drop your shoulders every few minutes. Vary your paddling technique slightly through the day, resting some muscles while you work others harder. Relax, breathe and look around.

With practice the paddle will disappear and you'll be surprised how quickly the time and the miles fly by. The more poised and relaxed you are in rough water, the more energy you can put into moving forward to your day's goal.

Paddling upwind can be hard work but you can still make good progress against the wind if you bear down and paddle effectively. When it's really windy and headway is difficult, wait for a lull in the wind and then paddle hard to the next spot where you can rest. Work your way upwind as close to the beach as possible. Take advantage of natural windbreaks like points or rocks or kelp beds for rest stops. Don't try to power up the faces of waves, you'll wear yourself out quickly working against gravity, and your kayak will pound - slowing you down.

Do accelerate down the backsides of waves, helping gravity accelerate your kayak into the troughs between waves. Remember that boat speed is paramount. Don't let the kayak slow down, especially when you are paddling upwind. Keep the kayak flat - don't rock the boat - and control your stroke so that you don't pull too hard at the beginning or end of the stroke. Pulling too hard makes the kayak porpoise up and down and slows your progress. If you concentrate on your boat speed and work every little wave, the hours will fly by. Set mileage or distance goals, not time goals.

You'll know that you have attained true paddling enlightenment when the paddle seems to take on a life of its own. You only need to guide the paddle through the water to move forward. A balanced stroke lets you rest your arms and back while you paddle, and a leveraged stroke means you can paddle strongly with little fatigue. The act of paddling becomes automatic, unconscious and effortless. When you have truly mastered the long distance touring stroke, you will be able to relax and enjoy the rest of your kayak trip.

When I said that I was planning to paddle across 2200 miles of open ocean in a twenty foot kayak, people looked at me as though I had told them I was going to commit suicide. My listeners projected their deepest fears on my trip. Wasn't I afraid of losing my way on the trackless ocean, starvation, thirst, going mad from lack of human contact, or being eaten by sharks? They were seldom reassured when I told them of my thirty thousand miles of sailing experience and ten thousand miles of kayaking along the most formidable coastlines in the world.

But I was confident that my kayak and I would arrive safely in Hawaii. Most people think large vessels are the most seaworthy ones. But this is not always true.

Survival at sea depends on preparation, experience, and prudence - not on boat size. I turned my kayak into one of the most seaworthy little boats in the world. I did not need to carry a life raft - I paddled a life raft. Inside my kayak, I crammed 60 days food and 25 gallons of fresh water. With my reverse osmosis pumps, I could make unlimited amounts of additional drinking water from sea water. I carried fishing gear, tools, and spare parts. In a waterproof bag I had, a compact VHF radio to contact passing ships, and an emergency radio beacon to alert aircraft flying overhead in case I needed to be rescued. Flares, signal mirrors, a strobe-light, and a radar reflector ensured that I would be seen.

My kayak was as stoutly built as any fibreglass sailboat. I wanted to paddle a true kayak across the ocean - not a specialised sailboat masquerading as a kayak. I used a stock Tofino double kayak with no mast, sail, centreboard, or keel. My boat had a foot-operated rudder and a wooden floor inside so that I could sleep a few inches above the water sloshing back and forth in the bottom of the boat. To stabilise my kayak while I slept, I inflated pontoons which I lashed to both sides of the boat. When the pontoons were deployed I could move around in my kayak without fear of capsize. A sailor's safety harness fastened me securely to my boat.

To find my way at sea I used a sextant and a small calculator programmed to work out navigation sights. I could figure my position to within a few miles when I could see the sun. I chose the crossing to Hawaii because the summer weather patterns are stable and the winds and currents are almost always favourable. The trip seemed to me to be the kayaking equivalent of climbing Mt. Everest. It was the most difficult trip I could conceive of surviving.

On a cold, foggy morning three kayaks glided out of the harbour at Monterey. My wife Katie paddled one of the boats. At the one mile buoy off Lover's point, we said goodbye, embracing from the kayaks. Pointing my kayak west and heading out to sea was the hardest thing I have ever done. Tears rolled down my face and I could hear Katie crying. I looked back from fifty yards away and I knew that we were thinking the same thought: that we might never see each other again.

I felt foolish attempting to paddle to Hawaii. Who did I think I was to attempt such an improbable feat?

Despite extensive preparation, my confidence was soon shattered by the relentless pounding swell of the Pacific Ocean. I had underestimated the abuse my body - especially my hands -would take on the 63 day crossing. After only a few days at sea, my butt was covered with saltwater sores and I could find no comfortable positions for sitting or sleeping.

Within a week, the skin on the backs of my hands was so cracked and chapped that I took painkillers to make paddling bearable.

Running downwind off California, I wore several layers of synthetic pile and polypropylene clothing - the type of clothing which is touted to be warm when it is wet. I stayed warm as long as I wore everything I had, but I was certainly wet. I was miserable but I spurred myself on with the thought that when I reached the southern trade wind latitudes, warm, sunny weather awaited...

Sailors can have two distinct waking nightmares: too much wind and too little wind. Heading south from Monterey, California, I lived through the first bad dream. The howling grey northwesterlies nearly devoured me. For two weeks I headed southwest before thirty knot winds, surfing down fifteen foot high breaking swells. The seas snapped my half-inch thick rudder blades as easily as you might break a saltine cracker. I needed every bit of skill and strength just to stay upright.

The nights were unspeakably grim. I set out two sea anchors and stretched out on the floor of my kayak. Tortured by salt water sores, I snatched a few moments of sleep while green waves crashed over my kayak, forcing themselves into the cockpit. As the ocean slowly filled my boat, I tried to ignore the cold water soaking through my sleeping bag until the rising tide forced me to sit up and pump out the kayak. Then I settled into the bilge and the miserable cycle repeated.

The cold wind was relentless. When I poked my head out in the mornings I screamed into the wind, "I don't want to die!" I felt as exposed and as stressed as I had on long rock climbs. I relied on my skill and equipment for survival - even a small mistake could prove fatal.

"This can't be!" I shouted at the empty blue sky. For about the fiftieth time, I looked at my pilot chart. Sitting motionless in my kayak in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, a thousand miles from land, I cursed the winds that had abandoned me. There was no swell, no wind - no sound. Without the boisterous trade winds and the westward current they spawn, it would take me two more months to reach the Hawaiian Islands. I did not think that I could survive that long. I had been at sea in my twenty foot kayak for thirty days.

A thousand miles southwest of my starting point I found the flip side of the nightmare - calm weather. In the calm conditions, I dried my sleeping bag and clothing and my skin lesions healed, but my progress slowed dramatically.

As night overtook me, I snapped a lightstick and placed it over my compass. However slowly, I had to keep my kayak moving towards Hawaii. Where were the trade winds? The night was so still that the bowl of bright stars over my head shimmered and danced in the calm sea. I felt as though I was paddling off the edge of the earth and into space.

For two weeks I pushed my kayak westward, until I reached longitude 140 west. Nine hundred miles from my goal, the trade winds blew strongly enough to launch my parafoil kite.

This colourful flying sail did not replace paddling, but the kite's pull doubled my speed, and I averaged fifty miles a day.

A school of blue and gold mahi-mahi fish played about my boat, frolicking and jumping in my bow wave. Catching them was easy since they always seemed voraciously hungry -fighting each other to be first to bite the lures which I trailed behind on a hand line. I even trained them to gather close to my boat when I knocked on my hull by feeding them cut up pieces of bait. Once a day I slipped a fish hook into a piece of bait and another mahi-mahi became sashimi.

Those days were the best of the trip. The strong trade winds were ideal for paddling. The royal blue surging swells were no more than six feet high and my yellow bow skipped over the waves as if my kayak knew the way to the islands.

Three hundred miles from the islands, I was caught up in a northerly current. The wind shifted from Northeast to Southeast, and the strong current set me north at the rate of thirty miles a day. If that current had not changed, I would have landed in Japan, missing the islands by hundreds of miles.

I thought that if I was soon to become a life raft, I ought to prepare my life raft equipment. I rummaged through my storage compartments, collecting my emergency radio beacon, flares, and signal mirrors. If I were going to miss the islands, my best chance for rescue would come when I crossed the shipping lanes fifty miles north of me.

On my sixtieth day at sea, I ran out of food. My school of mahi-mahi had left me a week before. I had eaten my toothpaste two days earlier. There was nothing edible left in the boat, and no fish were biting my lures. Looking up, I watched a line of jet aeroplanes heading for Hawaii. I thought about the passengers eating from their plastic trays. My food fantasies were so real and so complete that I could recreate every detail of every restaurant I had ever visited. I could remember the taste, texture and smell of meals I had eaten several years ago. I thought about how I should have gone to a grocery store in Monterey and bought fifty cans of Spam, or chilli, and stuffed the cans into my boat.

I had nearly completed the world's longest open ocean crossing, but I did not feel any closer to land. I had been scribbling different latitude and longitude numbers on the side of my boat, but I had no sense of progress. My kayak trip seemed as though it would last forever. In my 63rd day at sea, I was taking my usual noon latitude sight. When I swung my sextant to look at the southern horizon, I was annoyed by the mountain filling my sextant viewfinder and fouling up my view of the horizon line. "That damned mountain..." I thought. Seconds later, I realised I was looking at land! That dark mountain had to be Mauna Kea, 80 miles away on the 'big island' of Hawaii. The island of Maui 40 miles ahead was hidden under a blanket of squally clouds. As the clouds cleared, Haleakala reared its head and I knew I was almost home.

I whooped for joy when I saw land. I had only been pretending to be a sea creature. I was a land creature travelling through a hostile environment. My survival depended on the life support system I carried in my kayak, and my support system was exhausted. Nearing land, I felt as though a weight was being lifted from my shoulders.

After paddling and kite sailing all night, I brought my kayak into the calm lee of Maui outside Kahului harbour. The scents of rainwashed soils and lush tropical plants washed over me like waves of perfume. No one greeted me when my bow dug a furrow into the sandy beach. Stepping onto the beach for the first time in more than two months, I could not make my legs obey me. They crumpled underneath me and I sat down heavily in the shallow water. A local character staggering down the beach asked me where I had come from. When I told him that I had paddled my kayak from California, he whistled. "That's a long way," he said. "Must've taken you two or three days, huh?"

"Yeah," I said.

I talked him into helping me drag my kayak up the beach, then he wandered off. Reeling like a drunken Popeye, I lurched off in search of a junk food breakfast.

By Ed Gillet Article Courtesy of Necky Kayaks.

Dear Des,

My husband Bernd is 38 years old and a mechanical engineer. He is an experienced paddler, although his experience is in white water kayaking which he usually does (almost every weekend during the summer) at an white water parc nearby (Parc Eaux des Vives in Hunique, France) or on the nearby rivers Rhine and Doubs.

He has successfully attended several kayak classes (white water I-III) when he started in 1998/1999. He also can roll.

So far we have always travelled with our own kayak, but as we are flying this time this would be very expensive. We are regular visitors to Clonbur, where we always stay in Kilbride just on Lough Mask. The intention therefore would be to paddle on Lough Mask (not on the sea).

Bernd has no experience with sea conditions/winds but at any rate this should not be relevant for Lough Mask. We know the lake itself very well, as we in the past have always rented a boat for fishing when staying there. So really the whole purpose is just to have a kayak at hand for a bit of paddling on the lake.

We fully understand that people are protective of their kayaks and concerned about their equipment, but can assure you that we are very reliable people and will happily put down a deposit on top of the actual rent.

We are flying in to Dublin and are staying in Clonbur from 14.07.01 to 04.08.01. We would ideally like to hire a 2-seater sea kayak. We have a rented car & roofrack and are willing to drive quite a bit for the sake of renting a kayak...

Your help is much appreciated - the danger of having a miserable husband all summer will definitely spoil my holiday!

Thanks & Kind Regards

Ilse

(ilse.kastner@kbc.de)

PS. If requested we can provide you with letters of recommendation from kayak schools/instructors here in Germany as well as give you name & address of Irish friends of ours. As mentioned before Bernd is quite willing to book day tour/course to prove his experience.

During the summer of 2000, the currach Colmcille made the voyage from Penzance to Brittany and participated in the maritime festivals at Brest and Douarnenez under the leadership of Ivor Neill. The currach is presently in storage in Brittany and this year will continue on towards Galicia in Spain.

I would appreciate if you could let folk know about the project and that there is an opportunity for them to be involved as crew if they can spare the time and money. There is no charge for the voyage as such but the crew will have to make their own travel arrangements to meet the currach. Please apply to Aileen Armstrong at 16, Jerusalem St, Belfast BT7 1QN with your contact details, email, the period of time you’re available and anything you could do to help the project. If you’d like more information about the voyage, contact Ivor Neill (ivorneill@hotmail.com) or myself, Robin Ruddock (robinruddock@hotmail.com).

The journey starts on the 4^th of July and could take most of the summer. Progress will be dictated by weather and tide as well as crew availability. This is a great opportunity to explore the coast of France and Spain in an ancient type of craft. The Colmcille requires a crew of fourteen and is capable of sailing as well as cruising under oars. The currach, St.Efflam from Brittany will also be making the voyage and it is hoped that other currachs will join in if they are available.

The currach is a skin covered craft that is known to have existed along the Atlantic seaboard of Europe and this will be an historic voyage linking up the Celtic nations through a journey in skin boats along a route that they have not undertaken in centuries.

This is intended to complete the "Celtic Odyssey" and thereby strengthen relationships within and between each region. The Causeway Coast Maritime Heritage Group continues to emphasise the development of cross community relations in Ireland and sees this project as providing scope for this.

Please make an effort to identify and contact sponsors. The project costs are estimated to be £40,000. Please pass any information to Ivor Neill at 16, Dundooan Park, Coleraine BT52 2LQ

We’ve being doing quite a bit of work in getting the library together. We currently have 71 books in stock and there are more to come. I’ll be bringing them to the symposium, where on payment of your £10, you’ll be able to borrow.

There are three lists below.

1. A detailed list of all the books in stock
2. A list of books on order which should be in soon
3. A list of books which we aspire to buy. Please feel free to add to this

1. The fee, this year, is IR£10. There are no charges after this, other than your postal charge to return the books.
2. Anyone on the island of Ireland can borrow.
3. A maximum of three books may be borrowed at any one time.
4. Books must be returned within a month.
5. You may email or write orders to the librarian but not telephone. He has a life too.

The general principle is ‘no messing’. Messing will incur forfeiture of the fee and permanent exclusion from the facility. Note: the librarian has a very short fuse.

The Librarian is:

Des Keaney, Cluainín, Barchuillia Commons, Kilmacanogue, Co.Wicklow,

Library Books in Stock 28 May 2001

Author Akeroyd, John Book Name The Wild Plants of Sherkin, Cape Clear and adjacent

Status In Stock Islands of West Cork

Summary This illustrated book brings together 20 years of floristic data from the islands of Roaringwater Bay. The 590 flowering plants (all listed) makes this the most plant-rich 10 kilometre square in Ireland.

Author Bathurst, Bella Book Name The Light House Stevensons

Status In Stock

Summary The extraordinary career of the Stevensons, from the first of the Scottish lights to the last of the keepers, the family designed and built ninety seven lights around the Scottish coast.

Author Bigon, Mario & Regazzoni, Book Name The Complete Guide to Knots

Status In Stock

Summary The Complete Guide to Knots for Sailing, Fishing, Camping and Climbing is a compact, practical handbook of the 70 most useful knots to know. Illustrated with 647 colour photographs

Author Bourke, Edward Book Name Shipwrecks of Ireland

Status In Stock

Summary A photographic record of shipwrecks around the Irish coast.

Author Bronze, M. & Gronseth, G. Book Name Sea Kayaker Deep Trouble

Status In Stock

Summary This book gathers more than 20 of the most compelling and instructive accident reports from Sea Kayaker Magazine. What did they do wrong? What did they do right? How could the accident have been prevented?

Author Browne, Fr.,O'Donovan, E.E. Book Name Images of Aran - Fr.Browne 1928, 1935

Status In Stock

Summary Images from the 1920s and 1930s provide a haunting portrait of the Aran Islands with all their wild landscapes, seascapes, ancient forts and ruins; in particular, Fr.Browne's photographs of people capture the spirit and customs of a unique way of life.

Author Brunicardi, Daire Book Name The SeaHound; The Story of and Irish Ship

Status In Stock

Summary The life of the 'Helga', later the 'Muirchu' (Sea Hound), from 1908-1947, covered a most important period in Irish History. It shelled Liberty Hall, moved Free State troops in the Civil War and was Ireland's first fishery-patrol and research ship.

Library Books in Stock (contd)

Author Caffyn, Paul Book Name Cresting the Restless Wave

Status In Stock

Summary The circumnavigation of the North Island of New Zealand by kayak.

Author Caffyn, Paul Book Name Dark Side of the Wave

Status In Stock

Summary Stewart Island kayak odyssey

Author Caffyn, Paul Book Name The Dreamtime Voyage

Status In Stock

Summary Around Australia Kayak Odyssey. The Dreamtime Voyage is Paul Caffyn's own story of one of the most remarkable journeys ever undertaken by kayak - the first circumnavigation of Australia, a 360 day, 9420 mile epic.

Author Casey, Don Book Name Hull and Deck Repair

Status In Stock

Summary All you ever need to know about fibreglass repair. Written primarily for Yachties, it is highly applicable to kayak repair.

Author Coustick, Dave Book Name The Backpackers Cookbook

Status In Stock

Summary Packed with 100 recipies which are tasty, inventive, simple to prepare and cook, this handy book is essential for the outdoors.

Author De Courcy Ireland, John Book Name History of Dunlaoghaire Harbour

Status In Stock

Summary This book covers the history of the harbour from its construction early in the 19th century to its becoming the busiest port on the western shore of the Irish Sea and a leading fishing and yachting centre.

Author Deschner, Whit Book Name Travels with a Kayak

Status In Stock

Summary Join Whit Deschner as he drags his kayak from country to country through an insane world of whitewater. From sheep-infested New Zealand to the body filled waters of Nepal, from Guinness-rich Britain to alcohol-poor Utah and Pakistan.

Author Dillon, Paddy Book Name Irish Coastal Walks

Status In Stock

Summary This guide covers over fifty coastal walks around Ireland, taking in broad beaches, towering cliffs, battered headlands and a score of lovely islands.

Author Dornan, Brian Book Name Mayos Forgotten Islands - The Inishkeas

Status In Stock

Summary A comprehensive study of the history and landscape of the Inishkeas.

Author Doyle, Bill Book Name Aran Islands - Another World

Status In Stock

Summary A stunning portfolio of photographs, spanning four decades, records both the timeless landscape of the islands and the islanders themselves: their schooling, worship, fishing, sport, crafts and folkways.

Author Duff, Chris Book Name On Celtic Tides

Status In Stock

Summary This is a memoir unlike any you will ever read. It is an intricately woven tapestry of two journeys: one of the sea with its moments of tranquillity and contrasting terror; the other, an inner exploration that Duff discovers on his trip around Ireland.

Author Dunlop, Storm Book Name Weather: a Dictionary of

Status In Stock

Summary A new, authoritative and comprehensive dictionary of weather, forecasting and climate terms with illustrative examples of specific events and extremes.

Author Dunnet, Sir Alastair Book Name The Canoe Boys

Status In Stock

Summary The 'Canoe Boys' is an adventure of a pair of young Scotsmen who set off, in the early 1930's, to paddle from the Clyde, up the West Coast of Scotland to the Hebrides. It remains one of the most unusual and outstanding Scottish travel books.

Author Dutky, Paul Book Name Bombproof roll and beyond

Status In Stock

Summary This is an introduction to edge control and balance for paddlers from the beginner to the most expert and are the skills fundamental to manoeuvres such as bracing, upstream ferries and the Eskimo roll.

Author Dwyer, Kevin Book Name Ireland, Our Island Home

Status In Stock

Summary An aerial tour around Ireland's coastline, this is a fascinating pictorial journey around the island of Ireland. All of us have a special relationship with some part of the coastline and this book will have something of interest for everyone.

Library Books in Stock (contd)

Author Ferrero, Franco Book Name Sea Kayak Navigation

Status In Stock

Summary A book that tells you what you need to know about sea kayak navigation and cuts out the nonsense!

Author Flower, Robin Book Name The Western Island - The Great Blasket

Status In Stock

Summary Robin Flower's account of his frequent visits to the Great Blasket in the earlier years of the 20th Century. The Western Island tells of the frugality and adversities of life on the island and of its folk tales, ghosts and fairies.

Author Franck, Martine Book Name Tory Island Images

Status In Stock

Summary Martine Franck's superb photography offers an intimate glimpse of the island its people. Who, looking at the vibrant faces of its children, could have doubts for the island's future?

Author Hanson, Jonathan Book Name Complete Sea Kayak Touring

Status In Stock

Summary Raise your sea kayaking to the next level. This is a book for a new sea kayaker thinking about a first weekend outing or for the seasoned paddler planning an extended trip to a remote coast.

Author Harrison Therman, Dorothy Book Name Stories from Tory Island

Status In Stock

Summary This is a loving transcription of Dorothy Harrison Therman's tape recordings of conversations with the Tory Islanders in whom she discovered a wealth of stories, folklore and reminiscences.

Author Haswell Smith, Hamish Book Name The Scottish Islands

Status In Stock

Summary From the abandoned crofts of Mingulay and the standing stones of Orkney, to the white beaches of Colonsay and the spectacular Cuillins of Skye, this is the first complete gazetteer to cover all of Scotland's many hundreds of islands.

Author Houghton, David Book Name Weather at Sea

Status In Stock

Summary This book explains clearly the basic principles that govern the weather. You will learn how to get the most from weather maps and forecasts, deduce how the wind will be modified by the coast and whether a sea breeze will set in.

Author Hutchinson, Derek Book Name Eskimo Rolling

Status In Stock

Summary There is no mystique about learning the Eskimo roll. It is simply a matter of making the right move at the right time! Derek Hutchinson provides illustrated, step by step instructions on 18 different Eskimo rolls.

Author Junger, Sebastian Book Name The Perfect Storm

Status In Stock

Summary October 1991. The 'perfect storm' was that once-in-a-century gale of such immense ferocity that it was perfect i.e. it could not have been any worse. Aboard the 'Andrea Gail', Billy Tyne and his crew find themselves heading towards its frenzied centre.

Author Kruger, Chuck Book Name Cape Clear - Island Magic

Status In Stock

Summary The first general study of Cape Clear Island, this book is a collection of essays, stories and poems illustrated with photographs. The book tells how Cape has changed over the centuries, how it differs from season to season and what it is like today.

Author Lavelle, Des Book Name The Skellig Story

Status In Stock

Summary This book describes the isolated Early Christian monastic settlement with it's stone beehive huts and abundant bird life and tells of the history, legend, geology, plant life, seabirds, the lighthouse, seals and the underwater world.

Author Long, Bill Book Name Bright Light, White Water

Status In Stock

Summary Inviting his readers into the heart of the lighthouses which do the Irish coast, Bill Long describes why and how each lighthouse was built in its locality, how it functions and what kind of people 'kept the light' there and their remarkable way of life.

Author Mac an Iomaire, Séamus Book Name The Shores of Connemara

Status In Stock

Summary A wonderful description of marine life, not according to the norms of scientific natural history, but as the people themselves saw it.

Author Mac Carthaigh Book Name New Survey of Clare Is., Vol 1 History and Cultural

Status In Stock Landscape

Summary The 1st survey of 1909-11 was the most ambitious natural history project ever undertaken in Ireland. The New Survey constitutes a fresh baseline study and assesses almost a century of environmental change.

Library Books in Stock (contd)

Author Mannion, Seán Book Name Fungie - Ireland's Friendly Dolphin

Status In Stock

Summary In words and pictures, Seán Mannion tells the story of this wonderful dolphin who has befriended the local fishermen and the people who come to visit him.

Author Marshall, Jenny & Rourke, Book Name High Island

Status In Stock

Summary On High Island, there exists the most extensive remains of early medieval monasticism in the west of Ireland. This book gives compelling environmental and technological perspectives on the culture of the age and looks at the very nature of history itself.

Author McWilliams, Brendan Book Name A Weather Eye on Literature

Status In Stock

Summary Literary excerpts from the 'Weather Eye' column in the Irish Times.

Author McWilliams, Brendan Book Name Weather Eye

Status In Stock

Summary A selection from the famous page-two column in the Irish Times. Subjects encompassed include weather in history, literature, folklore, mythology and religion.

Author Mitchel, Frank Book Name Where has Ireland come from?

Status In Stock

Summary Hop aboard for a trip which takes you back in time, some 17 million years from the oldest rock in Ireland on Inishtrahull to the formation of the Atlantic Ocean and the formation of the Giant's Causeway.

Author Mitchell, Frank Book Name Man and Environment in Valencia Island

Status In Stock

Summary A vivid picture of Valencia Island from the arrival of the Stone Age people about 6000 years ago to the present day, with a concerned glance at the future.

Author Moorhouse, Geoffrey Book Name Sun Dancing

Status In Stock

Summary Skellig Michael was, for 600 years, home to a community of monks. In a remarkable feat of imagination and reconstruction, Geoffrey Moorhouse shows how this community worshipped and survived - a wonderful mix of fact and historical fiction.

Author Nelson, Charles Book Name Wild Plants of the Burren and the Aran Islands

Status In Stock

Summary This guide features 120 widely occurring plants as well as Burren specialities.

Author ní Shúilleabháin, Eibhlís Book Name Letters from the Great Blasket

Status In Stock

Summary Written to George Chambers in London, the letters cover the period from 1931 to 1951 and show a strange and different way of life. This is an island intimately known, loved, feared and finally abandoned.

Author Phelan, Andrew Book Name Ireland from the Sea

Status In Stock

Summary Like the coastline itself, Irish life has long been shaped by the sea. Andrew Phelan set out in his sloop Sarakiniko to discover the extent of his maritime heritage. It took him right around the coast of Ireland and deep into the island's history.

Author Raban , Jonathan Book Name The Oxford Book of the Sea

Status In Stock

Summary A richly varied and enthralling collection of stories of the sea from Anglo-Saxon times to the present.

Author Ritsema, Alex Book Name Discover the Islands of Ireland

Status In Stock

Summary This is a unique companion to these beautiful and dramatic locations. Combining detailed research with original photography, this book forms a comprehensive guide to these fascinating and unspoilt locations.

Author Robinson, Tim Book Name Stones of Aran - Labyrinth

Status In Stock

Summary The companion to 'Stones of Aran: Pilgrimage'. The author continues his extraordinary encyclopaedic survey by turning from the coast of Árainn to broach the interior, an area rich in history, folk life, science and language.

Author Robinson, Tim Book Name Stones of Aran - Pilgrimage

Status In Stock

Summary This wholly uncategorisable book describes a sunwise journey around the coast of Árainn, the largest of the 3 islands. It explores an open secret, teasing out the paradoxes of a terrain at once bare and densely inscribed.

Author Roche and Merne Book Name Saltees, Islands of Birds and Legends

Status In Stock

Summary The exciting story of two islands steeped in history, once a refuge for smugglers, pirates and rebels, inhabited by pre-historic man. Now a major bird sanctuary.

Library Books in Stock (contd)

Author Sayers, Peig Book Name An old Woman's Reflections

Status In Stock

Summary Peig Sayers was a born orator with a keen ear for a turn of phrase. She could shape a tale with a naturalness that belied the subtlety of her craft.

Author Schade, Nick Book Name The Strip Built Sea Kayak

Status In Stock

Summary Strip building is the most flexible, forgiving and attractive way to build a small wooden boat. Nick Schade presents complete plans and measurements for 3 kayaks; Great Auk, for beginners; Guillemot, for intermediates and the Guillemot double.

Author Severin, Tim Book Name The Brendan Voyage

Status In Stock

Summary In pursuit of the legend of St.Brendan crossing the Atlantic, 2000 years before Columbus, Tim Severin and his crew follow the exact methods used by the seafaring Irish monks in constructing and sailing their leather boat across the Atlantic.

Author Simms, George Otto Book Name Brendan the Navigator

Status In Stock

Summary Children's story of St.Brendan's voyages with volcanoes, icebergs, sea monsters, strange beings.

Author Soares, E.& Powers, M. Book Name Extreme Sea Kayaking

Status In Stock

Summary "Stay alert and you'll play again!" Read how the Tsunami Rangers judge surf conditions and hazards, handle exposed coast and open sea navigation, use their special techniques for bracing, recovery and rescue in adverse conditions.

Author Sobel, Dava Book Name Longitude

Status In Stock

Summary Longitude is the dramatic human story of an epic scientific quest. The 'longitude problem' was the thorniest dilemma of the eighteenth century. Unable to measure longitude, sailors in the great ages of exploration had been literally lost at sea.

Author Sommerville Large, Peter Book Name Ireland's Islands: Their Landscape, Life and Legends

Status In Stock

Summary Scattered like jewels around the coast, this book considers 19 major islands - their history, the legends, their areas of outstanding natural beauty, their flora and fauna and their towns and villages.

Author Stagles, Joan Book Name Blasket Islands: Next Parish America

Status In Stock

Summary Joan and Ray Staples spent many years compiling a history of the island. The book includes a moving account of the trauma of the Famine and the slow erosion of the islands unique culture to that bleak day in 1953 when they were finally abandoned.

Author Stokes, Roy Book Name Death in the Irish Sea - The sinking of the RMS

Status In Stock Leinster

Summary A month before the end of the 1st World War, the RMS Leinster was sunk by a German U-boat. This book deals for the first time, the full circumstances of Ireland's greatest maritime disaster and deals with previously unanswered questions.

Author Theroux, Paul Book Name Happy Isles of Oceania

Status In Stock

Summary Paul Theroux voyaged from the Solomons to Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Tahiti, the Marquesas and Easter Island, stepping stones in an odyssey of courage and toughness, finishing up in Hawaii.

Author Thomson, George Book Name Island Home - the Blasket Heritage

Status In Stock

Summary The literary heritage of the Blaskets, this book is imbued with Thomson's deep respect for the rich oral culture and his aspiration that the best of the past might be preserved for the future.

Author Tir Eolas Book Name Kinvara - A Seaport town on Galway Bay

Status In Stock

Summary A unique selection of historical photographs which evoke the atmosphere of an era when horse carts and sailing boats set the daily pace of life in Kinvara.

Author HMSO Book Name Admiralty Charts, The symbols and abbreviations use

Status In Stock on

Summary The official explanation of all symbols and abbreviations used on Admiralty Charts

Author Watson, Henry Cecil Book Name Inis Meáin Images

Status In Stock

Summary A wonderful and enduring record of a people and a place now decimated by the steady march of progress, these beautiful and stunning photographs, taken in 10 days in 1912, portray a way of life that has passed into history.

Author Watts, Alan Book Name The Weather Handbook

Status In Stock

Summary Explains in straightforward terms how to look at the sky and interpret what the clouds indicate about the coming weather. Combine weather forecasts with your own observations to get a correct assessment of the future.

Author Willis, Clint Book Name Rough Water

Status In Stock

Summary A collection of 16 incredible stories of men and women battling the elements and sometimes each other, to stay alive. In these stories at least, the sea often helps those who help themselves.

Author Wilson, Brian Book Name Dances with Waves

Status In Stock

Summary A great adventure - danger, high drama, narrow escapes and bizarre encounters. The story of Brian Wilson’s solo 1200 mile voyage around Ireland.

Author Wilson, Ian Book Name Donegal Shipwrecks

Status In Stock

Summary Donegal thrusts jaggedly into the Atlantic. This is the story of shipwrecks on it's shore from the Armada to the Twentieth Century.

Author Wilson, Ian Book Name Shipwrecks of the Ulster Coast

Status In Stock

Summary At a conservative estimate, 1200 ships were lost on the Ulster Coast in the nineteenth century alone. The author has place the ships in the context of their times.

Norway has announced its intention to export whales products for the first time in 15 years. Although there has been a global moratorium on commercial whaling since 1986, Norway has been hunting whales since 1993. They do this by lodging objections at the International Whaling Commission.

This year they plan to kill 549 Minke whales.

At least seven seafood companies have applied for licenses to export whale products, and it is feared that this could lead to the resumption of a global whale trade.

Japan would most probably increase its quota and a return to illegal whaling would mean the slaughter of thousands of cetaceans each year.

Log onto to Greenpeace USA at www.greenpeaceusa.org for more details. Contact the Norwegian Embassy and lodge your objections.

Tel: 028 4372 2158 Fax: 028 4372 6155

All prices in GB£

Email: admin@tollymoremc.com

Web: www.tollymoremc.com

Self Catering/ Camping 26^th - 29^th October £100

3 Star & 4 Star training (assessment available at end of weekend for those interested)

Self Cater / camp 7^th -9^th Sept £75

Self cater / camp 25^th - 31^st Aug £290

Catered/ self cater 5^th -10^th Aug £350

Catered 9^th Sept £35

Self Cater 5^th - 7^th Oct £75

Catered 22^nd - 24^th June £95

Catered 22^nd - 24^th June £95

30^th June - 14^th July

First week spent among the islands off the Eastern shore. Then travel North to Cape Breton to whale country.

Participants must be 4 Star paddlers.

Cost £490. The course fee does not include flights, camp fees or self-catering accommodation.

River Ocean Kayak will run courses for groups of 3 to 5 participants. Courses available include Level 2 & 3 proficiency.

Contact: Marc Jegou, 2 Muckinish West, Ballyvaughan, Co.Clare

Tel: 065 7077043

Email: riverocean@esatclear.ie, Web: www.riverocean.com

Sea Kayaking trips take place every weekend. Give us a call if interested . Beginners welcome.

A gentle and friendly introductory sea trip designed to give beginners a chance to try sea kayaking. Especially suited to people who are nervous on the water. Also suits our younger paddlers because it is short. We explore bays and inlets and sea caves.

Suitable for beginners, Duration: 2 hours, Price: .20 punts P/P (inc. equipment)

Probably our most popular trip. Here we get time to relax and safely enjoy the coast from sea level as we silently glide along. We explore bays and inlets and venture out into the open sea.

Suitable for beginner and intermediate, 3 hours, Price 30 punts p/p (inc. equipment)

Great for the kayaker with time on their hands. We explore inlets, islands and sea caves. We usually take a lunch break during this trip on one of the many islands and watch the seals and different sea birds get on with their daily antics.

Suitable for beginner and advanced, 6 hours, Price : 40 punts p/p (inc. equipment)

One of our more popular trips. Beginning at dusk we paddle right into the darkness, whether there is a full moon or a star filled sky overhead. Each has it’s own special magic. Combine this with the phosphorescence lighting up the ocean and you have a truly remarkable experience.

Suitable for beginner and advanced, 3 hours, Price: 25 punts p/p (inc. equipment)

Full Day Expedition with Overnight Camping

(6p.m - 12noon following days)

Very popular with families, corporate entertainment, and student groups or people wanting to get away from it all. After a few hours kayaking we land on an uninhabited island, set up camp and cook dinner. Then after an enjoyable dinner, there is time to explore the sea by kayak at night and learn the secrets of the ocean during the dark hours. Then follow the campfire back to base; later snuggle up in the tent and drift off to sleep to the sound of the sea lapping on the shore.

Next morning, after an early outdoor breakfast we break camp and take to the water again for another adventurous day of sea kayaking and we exploring the sea caves, getting close to the marine life such as seals, otters, dolphins, the various types of sea birds and also the occasional whale.

Minimum 2 days one night, Price: 70punts

Tents, cooking equipment and kayaking equipment are included in price, family and group discounts.

3 Day to 7 Day Long Expeditions

(Hotels / Guest houses and Camping)

The ultimate in a Sea Kayaking experience. These trips take you to the real heart of West Cork, its deserted islands pristine waters, sea life and stunning views of the coast from the comfort and safety of your kayak.

They can be customised to suit your group, with the addition of coastal walking, snorkelling and cycling. The trips can be based on camping, hostels, guesthouses or hotel stays or a combination of the above.

Other optional activities include: Archeology guided tours. Dolphin / whale spotting trips. Bird watching and nature tours, fishing trips . Our expeditions also take us to where we can experience Irish music and story telling evenings.

Duration :from 3 days to 7 days, Tents, cooking equipment and kayaking equipment are included in price. Family and group discounts.

Student Camping Expeditions

(minimum age 15)

Camping trips designed for students and youth groups (Leaders must accompany teenagers) See camping trips description.

The thrills and excitement of riding kayaks on waves rolling to the beach to release their energy should not be missed. We run surf-kayaking classes for kayaker who have some flat-water experience.

We teach safety and surf technique i.e. rescues, avoiding collisions handling the kayak on waves and how to enjoy it to the maximum.

Duration 4 hours Price:30punts p/p (inc. equipment & hand outs)

One day class suitable for kayaker and small boat users. (Practical and lectures.)

Duration:6 hours. Price : 35 punts p/p (inc. equipment)

Learn how to self-rescue and to help others in trouble. Rescues, Hi rescues, re entry, curls, paddle floats these are all names you will become familiar with during this workshop as well as tandem tows, fantail tows, short tows, long tows.

Duration :6 hours Price35punts p/p (Inc equipment & hand outs)

Learn the graceful art of righting a capsized kayak. (In the winter we use warm swimming pool, summer classes are held out of doors in the sea)

Duration: 3 two hour classes Price : Pool classes 60punts, outdoor classes 45punts

Don’t be lost anymore; at least know where you have come from. Plot a course safely and accurately.

Our two-day course teaches the use of compasses and charts as well as ready reckoning from a kayak or any small boat. We also explore the tides and how they effect us. We learn how to read forecasts and predict how they will affect the sea conditions

Duration :2 days Price :70punts p/p (inc. equipment & hand outs)

Each Sunday we do a different trip usually about 4 hours.

Numbers are restricted for all courses and trips.

Kayak & paddles: £10 per day

Sea Kayaking trips and classes are available all year round. (individual or groups). Private tuition is also available. We welcome enquiries.

Accommodation is available at Maria's Schoolhouse, Union Hall. A special deal is available to course participants.

Sea Kayaking trips take place every weekend. Give us a call if interested . Beginners welcome.

Contact Jim Kennedy at 028 33002, Email: atlanticseakayaking@eircom.net

Web: www.atlanticseakayaking.com

Visit the spectacular Connemara islands with a guide who has spent many years paddling in the area.

Date: August 4^th – 11^th and August 15^th – 19^th (4 days)

All equipment supplied

Groups by arrangement outside these dates.

These are held on request.

Contact: Stephen Hannon at Stephenh@iol.ie

Saoirse na Mara, 69 Manor Village, Westport Road, Castlebar, Co.Mayo. Tel. 094 27682

This popular course will be available again later in the summer. Watch the web site or contact Mary Butler 087 6619347 for further details.

Cost: £50 Email: marytbutler@hotmail.com

This course will allow you to safely plan a day trip before you get on the water. We’ll take you from zero to Level 4 standard in a day. This aspect of sea kayaking is vital to those do their own trips. It is aimed at beginners and those who want to improve or brush up on their planning skills.

The details of this course are not available yet but it is hoped that SRC Module 1 run over two days can be organised in conjunction with BIM. This course will cost £65.

If interested in attending such a course, please contact Mary Butler Tel: 074 28177 or email: marytbutler@hotmail.com

It’s with great pleasure that I can announce that Seán Pierce is to become the joint editor of Treasna na dTonnta. Seán will do the two summer issues – he is a teacher, after all, and myself, Des Keaney will do the winter issues.

I’ve been doing the job for the last three years and it’s time for fresh ideas. People are starting to avoid me at meets until they know I’ve found someone to do the write-up!

Seán has made a huge contribution both to the newsletter and the ISKA in the last number of years, most of it behind the scenes and I know he’ll do a great job.

Irish American, Michael O'Shaughnessy is hoping to paddle the North Channel from Scotland to Ireland in July. His recent trips have included Cuba to USA ( Key West ) 105 miles in 19 hours which will be chronicled in January issue of National Geographic Adventure Magazine . He crossed the Molokai channel in July as well ( Molokai to Oahu, Hawaii)( 32 miles) and has done several crossings of the Catalina channel in Southern California ( 32 miles).

For more on the sport check out www.paddleboards.com it's primarily a Southern California and Hawaiian sport ( and Australian) its underground but has been around for a long time. Good luck Michael!