ABOUT KIRSTY
ABOUT SEA KAYAKING WALES
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DAY FOUR : EXPLORING THE SHIANTS ARCHIPELAGO
It is not surprising that this group of islands are so renowned amongst kayakers and other explorers . The islands teem with life . In May , there are tens of thousands of seabirds nesting and hundreds of seals . The last puffin census in 2015 estimated 64,000 pairs ( 2 % of the World population ), second only in the British Isles to St Kilda .
The geology is equally spectacular , with volcanic dolerite columns reaching 120m high up the cliffs – much bigger than the equivalent and more famous columns on Staffa and the Giant ’ s Causeway . Carved into the coastline , we also found arch tunnels and spectacular caves – there was so much to explore by kayak .
I explored the main island further , running over the tussocky ground to view the archipelago from higher up and the more distant Scalpay Lighthouse and mountains of the Outer Hebrides , Skye , and mainland Scotland . It was absolutely stunning in the evening sun !
DAYS FIVE AND SIX LEAVING THE SHIANTS FOR SCALPAY AND RETURNING TO SKYE
Reluctantly , we left the awesome Shiants Archipelago on the remainder of our excellent weather window . The wind increased on the fifth night but abated for our final day returning to Tarbert and the ferry crossing back to Uig , Skye .
CONCLUDING REMARKS
My SKW Shiants 2024 Expedition was magical in so many ways . It was like someone was following me around , sprinkling fairy dust . I felt so much lighter each day . Following many years of being a responsible parent , I rediscovered my old , adventurous self . I loved hanging out with my fantastic team – such a great mix of people , all strangers before the trip . So quickly , they became the easiest , most relaxed company . We shared so much humour and some of our life stories . I had forgotten what a fantastic way to travel sea kayaking is . Returning to civilisation , I was struck by the loss of this lovely , simple way of life . But I was so invigorated by this shared endeavour , one that I did not realise I needed so badly .
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025
I had such a blast in 2024 that I ’ m now energised and gearing up for Sea Kayaking Wales ' 2025 Expeditions !
My top pick is the Small Isles / Arisaig Expedition from May 11-16 , 2025 , and I ’ ll be joining the team in Mallaig for six days of unforgettable expedition kayaking . The Small Isles , nestled south of the Isle of Skye between the Scottish mainland and the Western Isles , boast diverse wildlife , rich history , and stunning scenery , each with its own unique charm . Arisaig , with its varied coastline , abundant wildlife , sheltered waters , and beautiful sandy beaches , is considered one of the top kayaking destinations by many paddlers .
We also have exciting base camp experiences lined up for the Slate Isles from May 17-23 , 2025 , and Pembrokeshire from May 25-30 , 2025 . Looking further afield , we ’ ll be heading to Arctic Norway for two 11- day expeditions in July and August 2025 and a special # ShePaddles getaway to Croatia in September 2025 .
ABOUT KIRSTY
Kirsty has co-owned Sea Kayaking Wales for six years and is primarily responsible for administering the business . She has helped drive the SKW # Shepaddles programme , increasing female participation in the expedition series . In addition to kayaking , Kirsty enjoys running , art and raising an awesome family .
ABOUT SEA KAYAKING WALES
Based in Anglesey , SKW provides expedition and holiday opportunities to Scotland , Norway , and Pembrokeshire . They hope to add Croatia , Greece , and Ireland to the destinations list . Check out www . seakayakingwales . com for more information .
Sea Kayaking Wales also runs progressive coaching courses on Anglesey , from beginner to advanced , and are providers of all the British Canoeing Leadership , Coach , Safety and Personal Performance awards . Clubs / groups are also encouraged to hire SKW for meets and expeditions .
SKW is also a dealer of Sea Kayaking UK , Tiderace and Zegul sea kayaks . You can demo most models on the course opportunities . www . seakayakingwales . com
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