SEA KAYAKING SCOTLAND

Outstanding Outdoor Equipment

2010-10-24T08:11:00.000-07:00

Simply the best you can get to keep you warm under dry top and bottoms. Also great sleeping bags and after paddle clothing! Check out www.haglofs.se

The Tent Creature!!

2010-10-01T04:11:00.000-07:00

Characterised by its unusually large body and small head the tent creature is seen here in its natural habitat.

Still warm enough to swim

2010-09-26T08:20:00.001-07:00

There may be snow on the tops but the sea is at its warmest at this time of year. Demonstrated by two of our clients on a recent trip.

Barrisdale

2010-09-22T02:55:00.001-07:00

A rather soggy camp near Barrisdale deep into Loch Hourn. We did have a few dry spells and were able to watch the sunset while sipping a dram!

Onward into the Loch

2010-09-22T02:52:00.001-07:00

Beinn Sgritheall

2010-09-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

The Sandaig Islands

2010-09-20T07:51:00.001-07:00

A Moment of sunshine as we left the Sandaig Islands to head deeper into Loch Hourn.

The Loch Hourn adventure

2010-09-20T07:46:00.000-07:00

Simon and Blair packing in one of the dry spells before heading from Glen Elg into Loch Hourn.

First Aid

2010-09-12T09:05:00.001-07:00

No Sea Paddling the last few days but we are all up to date with our first aid. Just completed the BASP Outdoor First Aid course update in Glencoe. Great course and well worth doing.

Boat Maintenance

2010-09-08T02:58:00.000-07:00

Essential boat maintenance!

Mikes Bikes!

2010-09-05T12:14:00.000-07:00

The guy on the right is Mike who runs Mikes Bikes in Aviemore(a great place to get MTB and Road Bike stuff). Piture taken after a sunny but blustery day out from Hopeman on the Moray coast.

Swimming!

2010-08-31T02:09:00.000-07:00

Swimming in Scotland surely not!

Castle Stalker

2010-08-31T02:05:00.000-07:00

Castle Stalker seen from the boat while running a recent Glenmore Lodge intro the Sea Kayaking course.

Almost a sea stack

2010-08-19T02:04:00.001-07:00

Shetland Coastguard

2010-08-09T08:00:00.001-07:00

The Coast guard is the one on the Left!!

Self Rescue part 2

2010-07-14T01:12:00.001-07:00

Once on the back deck sit up carefully and shuffle onto the seat again staying low. Next get your feet in one by one. You can use the paddle to help with the "feet" bit. A paddle float can help with all the self rescues.

Self Rescue

2010-07-14T01:08:00.000-07:00

Lie flat in the water, put your spraydeck into your mouth(to stop it getting caught under your bum when you climb in) and pull yourself up onto the back deck on your tummy. Stay low to stay balanced.

Balance drills before a self rescue session

2010-07-14T01:02:00.000-07:00

A smile despite the rain

2010-07-08T10:15:00.001-07:00

Shetland Symposium

2010-07-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

It never looks the same in a photo however I can assure you it was blowing F5-6 and chucking it down with rain. We did still get out and folks were learning skills, on trips and having fun.

The Coaching Team

2010-07-07T05:28:00.001-07:00

At the Symposium this year were coaches Trys, Claire, Phil, Martin and of course myself(Roy) from G2 outdoor and seakayaking in Scotland. There were 55 participants who took part in many sessions from learn to roll, tidal planning, rock hopping and of course day and half day trips. Get yourself to the next Shetland Symposium!!

Shetland Sea Kayak Symposium

2010-07-07T05:23:00.000-07:00

The Bridge End outdoor centre made a great base fot this years sea kayak symposium. Despite the weather the Shetland Canoe Club put on a great event and made everyone sooooooo welcome.

Towing at Falls of Lora

2010-06-28T08:17:00.000-07:00

Callum sorts out a tow during the recent Glenmore Lodge four star I was involved with.

Scenery continued

2010-06-22T02:27:00.000-07:00

Scotlands stunning scenery

2010-06-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

Doing Well

2010-06-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

Aaron(pictured) did very well during a paddle from Cromarty to Rosemarkie on his second day of Kayaking. I on the other hand left my tow line on a beach half way along the trip. Please get in touch if anyone finds it.

Who goes first?

2010-06-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

Despite the fact that we have right of way as human powered vessels we were not about to argue with this beast!!

Met Office: Inshore waters forecast and strong wind warnings

2010-06-10T00:41:00.000-07:00

Met Office: Inshore waters forecast and strong wind warnings

Paradise

2010-06-09T12:21:00.001-07:00

Welcome to paradise!..........not telling you where this is, its a secret.

The journey continues into Knoydart

2010-06-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Out of the fog now we head into Knoydart in perfect sunshine and a breeze big enough to keep the midge at bay!!

Paddling in fog

2010-06-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

Fog is a rare occurance on the West of Scotland but during our recent trip we encountered a day of it. Most of your "mountain" navigation skills will come into play. Dont forget if you have a deck mounted compass to have a hand held one too in order to take the bearing in the first place.

Children’s development is being harmed because they are cosseted in “cotton wool” and prevented from doing anything risky, according to official guidance just published.

2010-06-08T09:10:00.000-07:00

Don't cosset children in 'cotton wool' says commissioner - Telegraph

Children’s development is being harmed because they are cosseted in “cotton wool” and prevented from doing anything risky, according to official guidance just published.

By Simon Johnson, Scottish Political Editor
Published: 11:00AM BST 08 Jun 2010

The guidance, titled Go Outdoor, calls on carers to encourage appropriate risk-taking Photo: REX FEATURES

The advice, for teachers and other state-employed professionals, attacks Scotland’s “risk-averse” culture, which it claims prevents youngsters from learning important life lessons.

It states that those in charge of children’s welfare are too afraid of being taken to court if anything goes wrong and argues that much of the bureaucracy around outdoor activities is unnecessary.

Tam Baillie, Scotland's Children’s Commissioner, who helped produce the guidelines, said: “How can a child learn to prevent or avoid accidents, and become wiser in the process, if they're not given the chance to take risks and put their learning into practice?
“A risk-averse and bureaucratic environment, which leads to cotton wool kids, breaches children's rights and undermines healthy development.”
A 2007 report by the commissioner, titled Playing it Safe, highlighted children banned from swimming unless staff stood nearby with a rope, and youngsters prevented from cycling without a risk assessment being conducted.
“Professionals working in childcare and education don't want to see young people's lives restricted in this way but fear of litigation has got in the way,” Mr Baillie concluded.
The guidance, titled Go Outdoors and produced by the commissioner and the Scottish Institute for Residential Childcare (SIRC), calls on carers to encourage appropriate risk-taking.
“Complex and repeated” paper risk assessments for outdoor activities are not needed by the Health and Safety Executive, while parental consent is also not required for routine events.
An average of three deaths occur on school trips a year, compared with between seven and 10 million adventure activity days, the guidance points out.
“While the death of any child is a tragedy, the fact is that accidental deaths are highly unlikely,” the report states.
“Risk assessment procedures appear to be the main block to spontaneity and normality in activities.
“While practitioners should work to keep children and young people safe, this need not be at the expense of a 'normal' life.”
Jennifer Davidson, SIRC director, said: “This guidance comes not a moment too soon.
“All children, but especially those in care, should be able to experience and enjoy outdoor activities without staff fearing being blamed or even sued in the case of something going wrong.”
Liz Smith, Scottish Tory education spokesman, said: “We’re in danger of calling a halt to extra-curricular activities because of our litigious society.
“If we stop children taking part in these activities, we’re going to deny them some of the life skills and lessons they need.”
Adam Ingram, Scottish children’s minister, said outdoor play helps children’s health and development, while also building their confidence and self-esteem.

First camp

2010-06-08T05:23:00.000-07:00

The start of our journey

2010-06-08T02:42:00.000-07:00

Packing for 4 days takes a bit of time but in the sunshine all is good

Enjoying a day on the Moray Firth

2010-05-31T13:02:00.000-07:00

Despite heavy rain in Aviemore we managed some sunshine on the Moray Coast . Our clients did very well for a first time and paddled 10Km. The secret East Coast comes good again.

A new use for Speedo's

2010-05-26T05:18:00.001-07:00

Dont try this at home!!!

Peanmeanach

2010-05-26T05:15:00.000-07:00

An excellent spot to stop and relax.

Loch Ailort

2010-05-26T05:09:00.000-07:00

With great weather and some calm seas we landed on Eilean nan Gobhar to check out the old fort and sun ourselves.

Sea stack from other side!

2010-05-19T11:15:00.001-07:00

Shetland Sea Stacks

2010-05-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

Another fab sea stack on the West of Shetland. This one can be found during a trip round Muckle Roe. Look at the photo in the next post to view this stack from a different angle......its quite different.

The Drongs!

2010-05-14T02:46:00.000-07:00

These impressive sea stacks are the Drongs on the West Coast of Shetland. They lie about 15-20mins paddling offshore and have been climbed in the past although the swell meant we didn't land.

Shetland

2010-05-11T06:48:00.000-07:00

Just one of the arches we encountered on a recent trip to Shetland.

Sea Kayaking Tips - Rolling a sea kayak

2010-04-29T03:38:00.000-07:00

Sea Kayaking Tips - Sea Kayak Rescue

2010-04-29T03:35:00.000-07:00

Sea Kayaking tips - Launching and Landing

2010-04-29T03:32:00.000-07:00

Sea Kayaking tips - What to wear

2010-04-29T03:27:00.000-07:00

For more information call G2 Outdoor 01479 811008

Other Outdoor Activities

2010-04-26T04:56:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for alternative activities then why not try white water rafting, canyoning for general fun activities. For skills courses we also run river kayaking, open boating, rock climbing and walking courses from £65 per day per person joining in with a group our for a private rate £180 per day upto a max of 2 people.

call 01479 811008 or email on info@g2outdoor.co.uk or visit our main website on http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/

Sea Kayak courses and instruction Scotland

2010-04-06T02:59:00.000-07:00

For the best Sea kayak instruction in scotland book onto a G2 Outdoor Sea Kayaking course and learn the skills to stay safe and enjoy the awesome Scottish Islands and coast line.

Check out these tracks

2010-03-28T07:44:00.001-07:00

YEEEEEEEEE HAAAAAAAA check me out!!!

NORMAL SERVICE WILL RESUME SHORTLY

2010-03-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

Ok I know it is not a sea paddling picture but at least we are out doing something. The first G2 Outdoor Alpine ski mountaineering trip get's going with great weather and powder in the Gemmi Pass area of Switzerland. Sea Paddling will follow soon!!

We've all gone skiing!!

2010-01-18T11:19:00.000-08:00

T There is too much snow to go Sea Paddling so we are all on the slopes or getting amongst the backcountry. Check out all the G2 backcountry, ski mountaineering and winter skills courses.

Use your stomach muscles

2009-10-06T02:31:00.000-07:00

A small exercise to help you engage your stomach muscles while forwards paddling. The sound is a bit poor but essentially start with straight locked arms and forwards paddle. Gradually bend at the elbow. It may feel a little awkward at first but you should definatly feel your stomach muscles engage

Its a bit choppy!

2009-09-22T04:49:00.000-07:00

Handa Island is an awsome place but the tides and weather can make it "a bit choppy". If conditions are right then it is a great day trip from Scourie. Remember that the West side has no landings and can be very committing. Enjoy

g2 seakayaking again

2009-08-18T07:40:00.000-07:00

Another G2 adventure

Coping with a following sea

2009-08-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

Some tips to help you cope with a small swell

Stay upright to forwards for balance.
Relax and let the boat move around.
If you like it as the wave picks up the stern of your boat apply power and enjoy a small surf.
If you dont like it as the wave picks you up back paddle a couple of strokes to escape!

The paddler in the video is a bit ridgid and nervous but for her 3rd day out its not bad. She is starting to get to grips with balance and the odd support stroke.

Driftwood Fires

2009-07-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

It is important to keep your driftwood fires small. They should be made in rocks near the shore line and be extinguished and disposed of responsibly after use. oh really!!

Another happy day out with G2

2009-07-04T20:00:00.000-07:00

Even in a rain shower dressed in all our waterproofs we still managed a smile for the camera and ofcourse like it does the sun came out not long after we got on the water.

Sea Kayak tips - moving sideways using a drawstroke

2009-06-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

For more coaching and guiding tips click here

Sea Kayaking Tips - Turning and Edging

2009-06-17T08:42:00.000-07:00

For sea Kayaking in Scotland Guiding and Instruction click here

Surviving off the land errmm water!

2009-06-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

Mark catches his first fish, which tasted awesome with a bit of garlic salt cooked on an open fire.

Sea Kayaking Tips:- Entering Caves Safely

2009-06-11T03:43:00.000-07:00

For Instruction and Guiding call 01479 811008

relax muscle's

2009-06-07T19:10:00.000-07:00

To help you relax your muscles and not get so tired, especially on a long crossing think about opening out the fingers of your top hand as you guide the paddle shaft into the water. Have a look at the video.

Sea Kayaking Scotland

2009-06-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

G2's latest sea kayaking video on the west coast of Scotland off Mull around the Treshnish Isles

For sea kayak instruction and guiding call G2 on 01479 811008

Buoy's having fun

2009-05-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

Some think its litter, some think it is just part of the whole beach/sea experience. Whatever your view point there is no doubting the fun i had with these buoys. Enjoy!

Summer Isles

2009-05-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

We have had a great start to this summer and a trip to the Summer Isles gave us some stunning conditions to view arches and caves. This one is easy to acess in favourable weather even if you are a novice paddler. To find out more check out our Summer Isles trip.

Wildlife

2009-05-18T02:46:00.000-07:00

These little fellows are called "dead mens fingers" and generally grow below the water, even down to depths of 100meters. I spotted these ones at a very low spring tide and just had to photograph them.

Sea Kayaking Skills Scotland

2009-05-18T01:26:00.000-07:00

Sea Kayak Coaching, Guiding and Instruction

2009-04-21T05:19:00.000-07:00

At G2 we pride ourselves on the quality, friendly coaching that our instructional staff provide, with Scotland’s best and most experienced paddle coach Roy Henderson at the helm of the coaching staff. Sea kayaking is maybe the fastest growing paddle sport and we have been well and truly hooked. We are able to introduce you to the basics from first time in a boat, wild life spotting to expedition planning. Improve your existing skills and develop new ones.

Call 01479 811008 for more details or email nick@g2outdoor.co.uk

or click here to go to main sea kayak website

Sea Kayak Coaching Scotland

2009-04-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

Nick, Roy and Mark Coaching near Cromarty

For Sea Kayak Coaching Website Click here

Sea Kayaking Expeditions

2009-04-08T02:50:00.000-07:00

Sea Kayaking Expeditions
Sea kayaking lends itself to expeditions with the boats having a large carrying capacity for all the essentials and a few luxuries (whisky). As the boats are taking the strain and not on your back you can travel further than you thought.
Scotland's wild places are so easily accessible by sea kayak. Let us guide you to some of the best sea kayaking terrain in the world. With wild free foods such as shell fish and catching mackerel and Pollock to mention a few caught from the boat or bank.
Expeditions can be tailored to your needs from short breaks using quality B&B or hotel accommodation to 5 day wild camping trips self supported. If you have a trip in mind but not sure how to organise it let us take the stress out of planning your trip. We will take care of tidal planning, equipment and accommodation suggestions.
Alternatively join us on one of our pre programmed West coast trips as below:

SUMMER ISLES TRIP
This awesome area close to Ullapool is easily accessible from our base in Aviemore. It offers some amazing paddling in an area where we can nearly always get shelter from winds and poor weather. We can paddle round Rubha Coigeach where the rock climbing venue of Reiff is situated or explore the many islands in the summer isles. There are rock arches and lots of wildlife. The last trip there saw a Minky Whale!
Suggested itinery
Day one: Meet at our G2 HQ to fit boats and sort equipment. Travel to Ardmair just north of Ullapool for our first paddle. With a camp site close to the road we can set up our overnight making sure everything is in working order before we head out into the wilds for the rest of the week. Day one will also include a great warm up paddle around Isle Martin getting use to the kayaks and running through some rescue drills and techniques.
Day two: Paddle up the rocky coast line to the summer Isles and our first wild camp on Tanera Mor. There will be plenty of wildlife spotting and skills training on the way.
Days Three and Four: Further exploring the summer Isles and a paddle round Rubha Coigeach head land to the beautifull bay of Achnahaird and our last camp.
Day Five: Further exploration of Enard Bay before our jouney back to Aviemore.
Obviously all our trips are weather dependant however it is rare that we cant go onto the water and nearly always find a sheltered venue to suit your capabilities and keep stress levels low.

For our main website click here

Sea Kayaking Scotland

2009-04-07T04:20:00.000-07:00

Sea Kayaking in Scotland with G2 Outdoor
G2 Outdoor based in Aviemore located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park near Inverness are centrally located to access Scotland’s awesome scenery on the West coast or the un-used secret East coast for Sea Kayaking.
Sea kayaking is one of the fastest growing sports with people looking for new adventures exploring the wild, rugged and sometimes remote coastline of Scotland. Join us to develop your presonal skills so you are better equiped to take your journeys further.
We have a range of course to suit every level of paddler from beginner to advanced, wildlife spotting to expedition skills. If these don't suit then let us tailor a programme to your needs.
We can run a full range of BCU courses up to and including 4 star and the old style level 3 coach. These awards at present are on a request basis. We will endevor to meet your request or can help you with alternatives.
G2 Provide Sea Kayak Coaching from learning the basics to sea kayak multi day expeditions. All of the coaching is overseen by a level 5 coach( the highest british award).
At G2 we are all passionate paddlers and are always on the water whether it be the sea or rivers

Click here to go to main website