Inflatable Kayak Blog

By Guest Blogger … Sheryl Connelly

Ahhhh.. March. A time to turn our thoughts to the greening of the countryside and a little wearing of the green for St. Patrick’s Day. But have you ever thought it a time of sea-kayaking in Ireland?

Sea kayaking is fast becoming the raging sport in the Emerald Isle for natives as well as those visiting from abroad, even in winter. Imagine coming face to face with puffins (the real ones that PakBoat Puffin Kayaks are named after) and seals, or harvesting muscles in the wandering sea-caves, islands and coves that dot the coastline. Experience the amazing scenery, nature, and wildlife that Ireland has to offer at an unhurried pace while you listen waves of the Atlantic gently lap against your kayak.
I know what you’re thinking. Sounds like a great trip, I’m so in! Ho there, adventurers. In addition to general paddling skills, you need complimentary skills such as navigation, tides, weather, route-planning, weather forecasting basics and technical stroke improvement before you venture out into the Irish Sea. The importance of appropriate judgment calls and seamanship skills are critical to not only trip enjoyment, but survival.

So how can you learn all of these advanced skills if you are a lake or river paddler? And how do I transport my kayak on Aer Lingus?

Good news! There are hundreds of sea-kayaking businesses in the coastal towns of Ireland catering to beginners that are more than happy to teach you the ropes. Best of all, most provide ALL the essential equipment you need so you can save room in your luggage for mementoes. However, in the spirit of being good boy/girl scouts make sure to come prepared with the “little” things:
·    A swims togs / shorts (for under your wetsuit!)
·    A towel
·    A pair of trainers / sandals that you don’t mind getting wet.
·    A sun hat / sun cream
·    A water bottle
·    Waterproof / disposable camera (optional)
·    A sense of enthusiasm / Adventure!

During the winter months you could also take along:
·    Thermal undergarments
·    An extra fleece top
·    Warm hat

Fishing anyone? Try your hand at netting your big catch in a sit-on-top kayak. Why fish from a kayak when you can hire a charter boat? Kayaks allow you to go where and when YOU want to. Too shallow for the bigger boats? Too steep or rocky a coast line to fish from or too muddy to wade?  Open yourself to a whole new experience by combining Sea Kayaking and Sea Angling.

Are you an intermediate kayaker looking for a romantic way to pop the question, celebrate your anniversary, or note a special occasion? How about a moonlight paddling expedition? Allow the quiet magic of Ireland embrace you and your loved one, while all the sounds of the sea are amplified. The heightened sense of awareness, beautiful night skies, and lighthouses guarding you as you paddle set a dreamy backdrop to your exceptional day.

Check out these fun links for more information or to plan YOUR next adventure:

http://www.seapaddling.com

http://www.h2oseakayaking.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9ICSqwOIoc

Sheryl Connelly is a frequent visitor to Ireland and an avid outdoors woman. Her next trip to Ireland is tentatively scheduled for late March. Learn more about Sheryl at www.sherylbrennan.com or http://www.managemmm.com.