Porthpean to Gorran Haven

We had a break from paddling last week so I was happy to get back on the water again, and as conditions were perfect we decided to continue our journey on the South coast. Kevin and I were joined by Linda and we launched at Porthpean beach in calm but foggy conditions and in the company of six or more sit on top kayaks, who were accompanying three hardy swimmers also heading to Gorran Haven.

The journey there was point to point until we got close to Gwineas rocks off Gorran Haven. In the distance and out to sea we could see white water which on closer inspection were small overfalls on the Gwineas reef. We paddled through this until we reached deeper water and the Cardinal buoy.

The trip back to Porthpean was a treat and by this time the fog had completely cleared and we saw the first swimmer nearing his goal. This coast has many secluded beaches, interesting rock strata, caves, arches, seals and an abundance of seabirds. Be sure to pop into Mevagissey harbour and hug the coastline to get the best out of this trip, as there is much of interest to see.

Wildlife Observed: Fulmar, Gannet, Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Curlew, Peregrine (x2), Rock pipit, Mediterranean gull and Grey seal (x6).

Look For:

Rock arches and cave at Porthpean

Black Head

Gwineas Rocks

Mevagissey

Chapel Point

Hazards:

Reefs and Rock Pinnacles

Tidal Race near Gwineas Rocks

Details:

Paddle No: 15

Date: 21/09/2013

Wind: Force 1-2 SW

Temperature: 18 degrees

Weather: Sun, cloud and fog

Distance Covered: 15.9 miles

Duration: 6.0 hrs

Access: Easy launch from sandy beach, landing and exit

Sea State: Smooth

Kayaks: P&H Scorpio,  Easky 13, Dagger Charleston 15

   Porthpean to
   Gorran Haven 

Click map to enlarge

Porthallow to Coverack

Today we joined some dots on our journey around Cornwall. Easy launching at Porthallow from a shingle beach, turn right and head down the coast towards Porthkerris and Porthoustock. You will see the Cornish Sea Salt Company and Porthkerris Dive Center. We kept to the inside of the Manacle Rocks (Cornish: Meyn Eglos, meaning church stones) and continued past Lowland Point. Both of which have been the end of many an unfortunate ship, and continued our journey to Coverack.

We had lunch on a boulder strew beach on the far side of Coverack Point and continued to Black Head, there we headed back to the outer Manacle Rocks where we played in the powerful tidal currents (made me happy), we then followed the reefs and currents back to Porthallow.

Wildlife Observed: Gannet, Mediterranean gull (10+), Turnstone, Oystercatcher, Common sandpiper, Raven, Rock pipit, Stonechat, Swallow (lots feeding over sea), Grey seal.

Look For:
The Manacle Rocks (best at low tide)
Cornish Sea Salt Works
Torpedo Tracking Station
Dean Quarry
Porthkerris Dive Centre

Hazards:
Reefs and Rock Pinnacles
Strong Tidal Currents
Dive and Fishing Boats

Details:
Paddle No: 10
Date: 10/08/2013
Wind: Force 2-3 SW
Temperature: 18 degrees
Weather: Sunny, Cloudy, Showers.
Distance Covered: 10.8 miles
Duration: 4.5hrs
Access: Easy launch, landing and exit
Sea State: Smooth but strong tidal flow on outer Manacles creating disturbed water
Kayaks: P&H Scorpio,  Easky 13

   Porthallow to
   Coverack

Click map to enlarge