Sea Kayaking Around Ireland

Sea kayaking around Ireland

Niall O’Donovan & Marianne Barry

Notes

This is a collection of paddles that we have done around the Irish coastline – in particular the south and west. It may serve as a recipe for potential paddles.

Note that we undertook these paddles in conditions within our capability. Please give the sea the respect it deserves. Take account of forecast conditions and have the recommended safety equipment.

Oileáin by David Walsh is the definitive guide to the Irish islands and has been our bible when planning paddles. It is available to purchase (and to read free) online.

We use Paddle Logger for all out trips, which is a great way of keeping track of all the fantastic paddles.

v1 © 2024 Niall O’Donovan

It All Started In 2019

Our first time out in sea kayaks was for a family paddle with our friends Emily Rice and Stephen Strain (Paddle & Sea), in Cahersiveen, Co. Kerry. This little publication is dedicated in part to Emily and Stephen for introducing us to the joys of kayaking.

Getting Serious With SKL2 Training In 2020

After more kayaking with Emily and Stephen in Kerry over the summer in 2020, we connect with the infamous Craig Keyworth for SKL2 training on the Copper Coast. We were beyond redemption at that stage and the rest is history.

Thanks Craig!

Sea Kayaking Trips Map (2021-2023)

A fair amount done, but a whole load more of the Irish coastline still to explore. There are some significant gaps – in particular up along the west coast. We have some bucket-list paddles on our to-do list.

An interactive map is available here .

Copper Coast Coastline

NORWEGIANS PÀ KLIPPENE PADDLE

Day 2 for our opportunity to paddle with an amazing group of paddlers from Norway. Thanks to Craig Keyworth and Sue Honan for leading a fantastic paddle - so much learning and help.

We put in at Ballyvooney Cove and headed west.

While the weather was overcast and drizzling, with increasing wind – it was a great day on the water. Plenty of chats and for Asgeir and the rest of the Norwegian crew rock hopping.

We headed down to Ballyvoyle Head, which is one of our favourite set of interconnected caves. We could spend all day there.

A fast downwind leg to Ballyvoyle Head, tested our resolve for an upwind return leg. Plenty of formation drills and we were back in no time.

A SMALL NOTE:

While technically the Copper Coast is in Waterford, it is just so awesome that it deserves a chapter all on it’s own. The rest of our Waterford paddles are further on down.

BALLYDOWANE BAY

This was a beautiful evening paddle and our first time putting in at Ballydowane. This can be a lively spot depending on the sea conditions. On this evening it was just stunning!

Ballydowane is a nice put in, with plenty of parking and a short carry down a slope to the sea.

On this evening, we headed east towards Tramore and rafted for a sandwich on the sea for tea.

BUNMAHON TO GULL ISLAND

This section of the Copper Coast is really beautiful - plenty of interesting coastline to explore.

There is a good choice of put ins, including Bunmahon.

BALLYVOYLE HEAD

While Bunmahon west down to Ballyvoyle / Gull Island is beautiful, the next section of the Copper Coast from Gull Island west to Ballyvoyle Head is just absolutely stunning.

Ballyvoyle Head has a series of interconnected caves in and through the headland, that are wonderful to explore.

We put in a Ballyvooney Cove, which is a beautiful stoney beach. It can be a lively put in depending on the surf.

On the 15 February 1926, the Spanish cargo ship SS Cirilo Amoros ran aground in Ballyvooney Cove. Fortunately all the crew were rescued and housed by the locals. Lively parties were held every night until the sailors left - despite the fact that only one Stradbally man, Tom Horseman, himself a sailor, was able to speak Spanish! The remains of the wreck can still be seen at Ballyvooney at low tide.

PEER PADDLES

Bunmahon and Kilmurrin are popular put ins for peer paddles along the Copper Coast.

This was a 7-hour paddle, exploring the nooks and crannies along this beautiful coastline. Plenty of stops for coffee and chats!

For the return, it’s always nice to put the head down and get a long leg in, at speed.

GETTING SOME DRILLS DONE!

Another great peer paddles out of Bunmahon.

Got an opportunity for surfing and then several drills – self-rescue and assisted rescues. All good fun.

EVENING PADDLE

Just east of Bunmahon, Kilmurrin is a great put in. A sheltered bay, with ample parking and an easy carry.

This was a memorable evening paddle with a great crew. Calm conditions, with a beautiful sunset at sea.

Generally, when we put in at Kilmurrin, we tend to head west along the coastline –occasionally striking out east!

ALL POINTS EAST

This is one of our paddles out of Kilmurrin where we headed east.

While the coastline is more open and linear, there are some wonderful caves and arches to explore.

A nice leg down to Burke’s Island, which served as a turning point for home.

Cork Coastline

LA SOLITAIRE DU FIGARO YACHT RACE, KINSALE

The La Solitaire du Figaro is a three-stage, 1,850-nautical mile, gruelling solo / singlehanded sailing race. You can read all about the race here.

The 54th La Solitaire du Figaro included a stopover in Kinsale, Co Cork in August. This is the 21st time that Le Figaro race has stopped in Kinsale.

Leg 1 started in France, with the course taking in Fastnet rock and then eastwards to Kinsale.

For the start of the second stage, we took the opportunity to paddle out from Lower Cove in Kinsale, out to the Bulman rock. This was the north end marker of the starting line. Getting an update from officials, we decided to head for the Sovereigns, as a good vantage point to witness the race. This was a good decision, as it got us clear of the start line and we could see the tacks of the boats and then position ourselves without getting in the way.

The winds were light, which suited us, but probably not for the sailors. It meant that we could see the yachts pass by, without it being over in a blink of an eye.

When starting a paddle in Kinsale harbour, Lower Cove is one of our favourite put ins. It is handy for us, and while parking can be tight, once you are parked – it is an easy carry. Also, you are in the outer harbour and there is a load of options for a great paddle.

You can see a selection of photographs of the race here.

SOVEREIGN ISLANDS

This was a beautiful Friday evening paddle in absolutely perfectly calm conditions. We put in by the Coastguard station in Oysterhaven. It was a beautiful paddle out to the islands and spend time exploring.

The Sovereigns are quite exposed and while they are not a large distance offshore, it’s best to opt for a calm day.

It was such a calm evening and the water was silky smooth. Your eyes could not really focus on the surface of the water and it was quite mesmerising.

OLD HEAD OF KINSALE

This is one of our favourite paddles. We tend to head out along the eastern side of the peninsula as there is buckets of interest. The further out you go, there are fewer landing spots. There is a small beach on the north end of Holeopen Bay, which is generally accessible, except at high tide.

We tend to put in at a small beach to the north of Speckled Door pier, as the pier itself is not easily accessible.

There are several tunnels under the headland, connecting east to west. These are located in the aptly named Holeopen Bay.

The tunnels are navigable, expect at very low tides. We did not go through on this paddle!

There following pages have a couple of other paddles on the east side of the Old Head.

HOLEOPEN BAY, OLD HEAD OF KINSALE

This was our first time through the main tunnel under the Old Head of Kinsale. It is just a great experience, in the right / calm conditions. The approach to the tunnels on the west side is very dramatic, with shear cliffs.

We put in at Garylucas Beach, which can be lively on some days.

There are a lot more stop off options on the west side of the headland.

There following pages have a couple of other paddles on the east and west sides of the Old Head.

NEWFOUNDLAND BAY, KINSALE

When putting in at Oysterhaven Coastguard Station, the adjacent Newfoundland Bay is a great option for a fantastic paddle.

The bay has loads of interest, with caves, arches and wonderful sea life.

The only option for a onshore break is a small beach on the eastern end of the bay.

On the way back we headed to Ballymaccus, which is a sheltered bay for practicing rescue drills.

NEWFOUNDLAND BAY, KINSALE

In 2022, we explored Newfoundland Bay in much more detail. Again, we put in at Oysterhaven Coastguard Station, which is very convenient.

The only option for a onshore break is a small beach on the eastern end of the bay. We took in the Sovereign Island on the outward leg.

DAWN PADDLE OUT TO THE SOVEREIGN ISLANDS

We put in at Oysterhaven Coastguard Station at around 4am. This got us out towards to the islands in time for a spectacular sunrise.

It really was a great experience!

Planning is essential for these types of paddles - in that we brought a fine breakfast with us and scoff it at our leisure in Ballymaccus bay.

CASTLETOWNSHEND

Castletownshend is a beautiful coastal town, midway between Glandore and Skibbereen. It is a lovely put in, either from the town slipway or just upstream at the League split (which is where we put in).

We had a leisurely paddle out of the harbour, with a lunchtime destination of Horse Island.

The island is a wonderful stopover and a welcome break. Afterwards we headed around Black Rock and then across the bay, to explore the coastline east of Castletownshend.

There were loads of sprat around and we got to see the mackerel chasing them in the shallows.

You can see a short video here (https://youtu.be/yzEl6HB45tE).

MIZEN HEAD

This is one of the occasions where we get to make the most of the conditions. When we put in at Galley Cove, the plan was to paddle west to Brow Head. Once outside, the conditions were so flat calm, that when we got to Brow Head, we decided to push further west to Mizen Head.

Mizen Head is Ireland’s most south-westerly headland and is iconic for me. Growing up, I spent my summers in Crookhaven, with many trips up to Mizen. It was great to witness from the sea.

A highlight while rafting for lunch off the head, was a passing pod of bottlenose dolphins – one of which passed close to us.

On the return leg, we continued east to Alderman Rock – through one of the impressive sea arches and then up into Crookhaven harbour.

A mandatory stop at O’Sullivan’s Bar, for the absolute best fresh crab open sandwiches.

A memorable paddle!

You can see a short video here

(https://youtu.be/Y28uM4KnRc8).

CROOKHAVEN

This corner of West Cork is just absolutely stunning, with an infinite range of paddles available.

On this day, we put in at Castlepoint, which is a tight location. Parking is limited and it is a bit of a scramble to get the kayaks into the sea. A bit of work, but oh so worth it. It was great to explore Castle Point and nearby islands, before heading around Toormore Bay.

Our destinations included a stop in Goleen harbour for lunch, followed by a short hop over to Crookhaven. We hung around the lighthouse (taking photographs), and then headed across the bay for a thrilling 3nm paddle back.

GOAT ISLAND

For this paddle, our main destination was Goat Island, on the western end of Long Island Bay.

We put in at Colla Pier (which is just out beyond Schull), which is brilliant – plenty of parking and a very easy carry to the shoreline.

Goat Island is beautiful, with a fantastic sea arch on the north-est end, and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore. We landed on the south side of Goat Island and it was just magical – an oasis.

Getting back on the water after a break, we decided to take a leg down the seaward side of Long Island, and then back around to Colla Pier.

(Yes – there are goats on Goat Island!).

DUNMANUS BAY

Another memorable paddle!

Dunmanus Bay is really scenic with two rugged headlines stretching out into the Atlantic.

We put in at a small pier at Dunmanus Pier on the Mizen Head peninsula. A small pier with some limited parking and a relative easy carry down the steps.

We explored the inlet, including Dunmanus Castle. Then heading out into the bay, our plan was to take a straight heading to Dooneen Pier on the opposite Sheep’s Head peninsula. This was a great crossing of over 2nm in about a force 4 north westerly wind.

The shoreline around Dooneen Pier was really interesting and the variance east along the coastline towards Dromnea was just wonderful.

The highlight included a pod of common dolphins passing us on a west bound track out of the bay. There were about eight dolphins, two of which passed at close quarters.

As the wind picked up to a force 4 – gusting 6, we headed back across the bay for an exciting paddle, stopping to land on Carbery and Furze islands.

Overall, a fantastic day on the sea.

ROARINGWATER BAY & HORSE ISLAND

Another paddle in a fresh force 4 breeze.

Roaringwater bay is just chock full of islands and there are so many options!

We put in a small pier at Dreenatra, east of Schull. There is limited parking at the pier. But once you are in, it is just an easy carry to the shoreline – down some small steps cut directly into the rock.

We headed out and around Horse Island. We stopped for lunch at a stunning beach at the easterly end of the island. Fully sated, we dug deep for a 2nm crossing into the wind.

Our destination – Kilcoe Castle (home to Jeremy Irons). A stunning castle, apparently in traditional render, where the pink colour will continue to mature and change over time.

Jeremy Irons recently bought Mannin Island, which is just adjacent to the castle and it appears that they are restoring it using very traditional methods and materials.

HARE & CALF ISLANDS

While it was an overcast day – there is no such thing as a bad day on the water!

We put in at Cunnamore Pier, which has plenty of parking and a very easy carry to the slipway.

A really enjoyable paddle exploring the eastern islands of Roaringwater Bay.

SHERKIN ISLAND

We had a fantastic paddle anticlockwise around Sherkin Island.

Put in at Baltimore harbour made it very easy and accessible. There are multiple beaches for regular stops on the north side of the island. A bit more limited on the south side, but still a couple of options.

SCHULL & CASTLE ISLAND

This was a shorter paddle – just aiming to explore Schull harbour and do a loop of Castle island.

Schull is a Mecca for sailors, so there is always a lot of activity on the water. Plenty of space for everyone – just adds to the flavour and visual interest when paddling.

Inis Fada, as it is known in Irish, gets its name from its shape, and translated to Long Island.

The white tower lighthouse at Copper Point (eastern end), has been marking the entrance to Schull Harbour since 1865.

DROMADOON PIER

We put in at Dromadoon Pier, south of Skibbereen. A beautiful small pier with ample parking and an easy carry to the beach.

The initial plan was to explore the rapids flowing from Lough Hyne to the sea. Plenty of fun! The inlet is really pretty and sheltered by a narrow channel. Also there are several handy caves (to shelter from passing downpours).

Next on the plan was to explore the east side of Tragumna Bay, out to Gokane Point. This was the highlight of the paddle – a real interesting stretch of coastline. A real treat.

SEVEN HEADS (WEST)

Seven Heads is a large headland, which we have taken on in two bites (and have still plenty of ground to explore).

Tackling the west side in 2022, we put in at Moloney’s Strand, where parking can be limited if the beach is busy and the carry can be long, if the tide is out. Still very doable and better than attempting a put in at Dunworley Beach, which can be trickier.

Once on the water, the paddle was brilliant. Seven Heads is a really interesting coastline with loads to explore. Fantastic caves, arches and dragon’s breath!

There were several beaches and easy stop points for coffee breaks and lunch. A really enjoyable paddle.

SEVEN HEADS (EAST)

Tackling the east side of Seven Heads in 2023, we put in at Courtmacsherry, which is very easy – plenty of parking and a short carry. Also, plenty of choice for refreshments on your return.

The east side of Seven Heads is just as spectacular the west!

Again several beaches for easy breaks along the way. We passed by the larger beaches, like Broadstrand and instead stopped at a nice small beach at Barry’s Point.

We still have another third of Seven Heads to explore. If we tackle this, we will probably put in further out from Courtmacsherry – maybe the small beach by Lislee Court.

ROBERT’S COVE

Robert’s Cove is a lovely sheltered bay, just to the west of Cork harbour. Plenty of parking, but the beach is so shallow that it can be a very long carry at low tide.

That aside, it is a great put in for this section of the Cork coastline.

It was a lovely day, however the wind and swell beyond Robert’s Head were beyond our comfort zone. So plenty of playing in the swell out to the head, but not beyond. An enjoyable paddle, with plenty in the tank for some drills on returning to the cove.

ROCKY BAY

Rocky Bay is immediately west of Robert’s Cove.

Fairly good parking, with an easy carry down a concrete ramp to the beach.

Very interesting coastline. We initially explored the east side out to Robert’s Head. Then a nice 1.5nm tack across the bay to the west side

Stopped for lunch by a wonderful beach by Rennies, which had old abandoned buildings – fascinating.

KINSALE

Kinsale is a beautiful harbour, with plenty of interest. Many of our paddles here start and end at Lower Cove, which is handy for options in the outer harbour (can be exposed) and the inner harbour (generally sheltered).

This was a particularly relaxed paddle, with a coffee break at Una’s Food on the pier in Kinsale; and then on the paddle back – lunch at the Bulman Pub, in Summercove.

If you don’t look after yourself, who will?

The following pages include paddles from Lower Cove, out to the Bulman buoy. The Bulman Buoy is the southern cardinal mark to the submerged Bulman rock on the approach to Kinsale Harbour. Both of these paddles started in Lower Cove and took in a loop around Sandycove Island.

While David Walsh (Oileáin) describes Sandycove Island as “an unremarkable lump that shelters the entrance to Sandy Cove, a small deep inlet just west of the mouth of Kinsale Harbour.” We think this is a little bit harsh and quite like the island.

HIGH & LOW ISLANDS AND RABBIT ISLAND

This was a wonderful peer paddle, with a (new to us) group from Cork.

We put in at Squince Beach, which is a nice spot. We paddled out and met up with the group, who were coming from Blind Harbour.

The islands offer a very pleasant paddle, with ample nooks and crannies.

Knockadoon Head & Capel Island

The original plan on this particular day was for a paddle out of Ballycotton. However, due to issues at the various put-ins, we opted instead for a paddle out of Knockadoon Pier and around Capel Island.

The foreshore and seabed between Knockadoon Head and Capel Island is legally protected as a national nature reserve. In addition, you need to get permission from BirdWatch Ireland, in order to land on the island itself.

Ferry Point, Youghal

The headland west of Ardmore does not offer many exit or stopping points, we for our first exploratory paddle we decided to put in at Ferry Point, opposite Youghal town.

Ferry Point is a great option for a put in, with plenty of parking and an easy carry to the shoreline. It was nice to paddle out and see Youghal and its lighthouse from the sea.

Approaching Ardmore Head from this angle has plenty of small and large beaches. We stopped for lunch at Goat Island and this would be a great put in, to really explore the headland all the way round to Ardmore.

Galway Coastline

LETTERMULLAN ISLAND

We travelled up to Connemara on the Friday morning of the bank holiday weekend. We were staying for four days on Lettermullan Island, so the plan was to kayak around this island on the first day.

Putting in near Dog Island, we headed west and around the signal tower. We stopped for lunch on Trá Mhór and then headed north, weaving in and around the islands. Our landlady’s husband lived on Inisherk, and the old houses are still standing – an intriguing look back in time.

Further north is Dinish Island, with one of the finest beaches in all of Connemara –Furnace beach. An absolutely wonderful fine, white sandy beach, with wonderful views.

OMEY, INISHTURK & TURBOT ISLANDS

Day 2, we headed towards Clifden, and out along the spectacular Sky Road. We put in at Eyrephort Beach, which is another fantastic beach. Our paddle took in Omey, Inishturk & Turbot Islands.

A nice lunch spot up on the flat slab rocks on the west side of Inishturk and then a paddle around Turbot island.

We stopped again on the east side of Inishturk, where there is a beautiful hamlet of fishing cottages.

ROUNDSTONE

Day 3 we headed to Roundstone, putting in at a lovely inlet, just to the south of the town.

Heading out of the harbour and west along, we took in Dog’s Bay and Trá na Feadóige, before stopping for lunch at a lovely beach north of Mutton Island.

On the return leg, we rounded Inishlackan Island. Stopping at the south eastern side, we explored the abandoned settlement. This has been reclaimed by nature and herds of sheep (and a lone donkey)! The atmosphere on this side of the island was wonderful and again felt like we were stepping back in time.

Roundstone is a beautiful harbour, with the majestic twelve Bens as a stunning backdrop. A fantastic evening paddle back into the harbour, before heading for a fine feed at O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar.

FINISH, INISHMUSKERRY, DUCK & BIRMORE ISLANDS

On Day 4, we opted for a put in close to Lettermullan Island and headed for Ardmore Pier. Another fine put in spot.

The plan was to take in Finish, Inishmuskerry, Duck & Birmore Islands. Again, we were spoilt with an endless choice of fine white sandy beaches and stunning views. Lunch was on an unspoilt beach on Inishmuskerry (which we had all to ourselves).

Highlight of the paddle was a 10-minute sighting of a solitary bottlenose dolphin. An absolute treat to witness these wonderful animals in the wild.

Getting to each of our put ins allowed us the opportunity to also explore the wonderful Connemara countryside. From the beautiful Twelve Pines island on Derryclare Lough, to the sunset light dappled on the Twelve Bens. Stunning countryside, with an equally stunning coastline.

KILLEENARAN PIER TO KINVARRA

A great paddle out from Killeenaran Pier – a nice quiet spot. We had a great paddle in and around the coast. Kinvarra provided a beautiful location for lunch.

A fresh wind, gave us a nice beat back.

BALLINACOURTY PIER TO ISLAND EDDY

An enjoyable paddle, in and around the islands.

BALLYVAUGHAN PIER, AROUND ILLAUNLOO ISLAND

A very easy put in at Ballyvaughan pier.

We had a great paddle, even though it was an overcast day. We stopped along Flaggy Shore for lunch, which was nice to look out from, but had a minor road above it.

Paddled a long distance in against an ebbing flow to get a closer photograph of Muckinish West tower house. A tough leg, but worth it.

Also passed around the Finavarra Martello Tower, which appears to be well maintained and in good condition.

On the homeward leg, we took in a loop around Illaunloo Island.

Kerry Coastline

WHITESTRAND BEACH

Heading to Cahersiveen, Co Kerry for a couple of days, so for the first paddle we stopped on route and took a great paddle in at Whitestrand Beach. Limited parking, but if you get in, it is an easy carry down to the beach.

A fresh breeze gave us a nice leg up to a small island by West Cove.

After a relaxing lunch we went around the island to play in the swell and then a relaxing return, while exploring the coastline. Wonderful paddle!

VALENTIA ISLAND

Another fresh day, so taking account of the conditions, we decided on a paddle taking advantage of the lee of Valentia Island.

We put in at Portmagee, which while it can be a busy spot, we have always been able to snag parking and the slipway is a good spot to put in. Keep a weather eye out for the Skellig ferries, which go at a fair pace in and out of the harbour.

We stopped for coffee (and cake) at Knightstown, and then paddled back a distance for lunch on a beach later.

A really enjoyable paddle.

BEGINISH ISLAND & CHURCH ISLAND

It’s great to catch up with Emily and Stephen (and Tiki) in Cahersiveen. They were the only reason we got into sea kayaking and have always been encouraging.

We put in at Kightstown and headed for Church Island. Weather conditions were perfect for landing on the island, which was a real treat. Several of the buildings, including a bee hut remain on the island, from the 7th century monastery.

Returning to the water, we heading in to Cahersiveen and had lunch with Emily and Stephen. Then it was back out to explore a well known cave out by Doulus Head. It was cathedral-like, with tall straight walls and a flat roof.

Then a paddle around Beginish Island, taking some photographs of the lighthouse at Fort Point, on the way back to Kightstown.

To cap off a perfect day, we met up with family for a beautiful meal at Reenard Point. One of our favourite paddles.

BEGINISH ISLAND

Beginish Island is also very easily accessed directly from Cahersiveen. There is ample parking at the marina and an easy carry down the slipway. There is plenty to explore on the way out of the harbour, including Foughil Island.

Onwards to Beginish with two stops – one for lunch and a second for a coffee break before the paddle back to Cahersiveen.

DOULUS HEAD

It was such a beautiful day for a lengthy paddle. We put in at a small beach, close to where we were staying, and then out into Portmagee Channel.

It was flat calm and a beautiful still morning. Plan was to make out way along the beaches and out along Doulus Head. Perfect conditions out at the headland.

A quick crossing to Beginish Island for a well deserved lunch.

Then around Beginish and into Glanleam Bay. Wind was fresher in the afternoon, so a spirited beat back to our put in.

PORTMAGEE

An example of dynamic trip planning - conditions were perfectly still in Portmagee channel, however the swell outside was higher than forecasted.

While our original plan was to explore the coastline down towards Puffin Island – the conditions were just not right for us. We played in the swell for a time and longingly looked out to the Skelligs.

As always, the photographs really don’t give any indication of the conditions on the water.

The swell wasn’t the only feature! The Skellig ferries out of Portmagee don’t take any prisoners and the wash from them as they power past are additive to the swell.

We had lunch in Portmagee and then drove out along the headland, to see the coastline from the shore. Breathtaking corner of Ireland!

GREENANE ISLANDS, KENMARE

A really nice put in at Templenoe Pier, just west of Kenmare. Very scenic pier, with a short carry. It seems to be a popular spot for the local rowing club and for sea swimmers.

We paddled off first around Dunkerron Islands – home to several horses and wild goats. A stiff upwind paddle out west and then back down to Greenane Islands.

The Greenane Islands are a real treat! Intriguing little inlets and coves, with a scattering of ruins, old houses and piers at the western end. We really enjoyed ambling around these island, before heading back to the Templenoe Pier.

SHERKY ISLAND, KENMARE

We put in at Rossdohan Pier, further west from Kenmare (close to Parknasilla). A beautiful quiet spot (although it might be busier in the summer).

We had done our homework with the Oileáin book and knew of the small passage between the mainland and Rossdohan Island. If you didn’t know it was there, you would miss it completely from the slipway.

There appears to be plenty of history on Rossdohan Island, with a ruined manor house and a couple of piers.

Onwards to Sherky Island, which was lovely, with a great sheltered spot for lunch on the northern side. Plenty of wildlife on the paddle around.

Waterford Coastline

A NORWEGIAN MØTE OFF HELVICK HEAD

Headed out on a great paddle with a group of Norwegians, who were paddling along the south coast for a week – ably assisted by Craig and Sue.

It was a fantastic paddle, putting in at Ballynagaul and then headed out around Helvick Head.

The team had plenty of drills – all in and assisted rescues.

It was a brilliant opportunity to meet and paddle out with this experienced group –thanks Kjell, Stefan, Lisa, Asgeir, Bodil and Asle for sharing your experiences and knowledge.

A great day on the water!

HELVICK HEAD

While this can be a short hop around Helvick Head, there is plenty of coastline to explore.

Ballynagaul is a very handy put. A good amount of parking; a short carry; and handy toilets nearby.

The beach near Linn Bui is a very nice spot for coffee or lunch. We used it as a turning point for home. On some paddles, we have continued further west to Ballycurreen beach, which extends it a bit further.

Overleaf: on occasion, when there is a large swell from the south, it can be lively out beyond the islands. Putting in at Ballynagaul, its a sheltered paddle out to Helvick Head and then a play in the swell. Then a fun ride over and back to Ballinacourty Lighthouse. It has everything a paddler needs.

DUNMORE EAST

This is another great put in option on the Waterford coast. Dunmore East has some on street parking close to the beach. If this is busy, there is also some parking close to the pier. Either way, it’s a great starting point for a day on the water.

A calm day, with the fog coming and going. A good practice of handrailing along the coast.

Plenty of spots to pull in for a break, including Portally Cove beach; Rathmoylan Cove beach; and Ballymacaw Cove beach.

There is a stunning cliff walk along the coastline, with stunning views out over the sea.

DUNMORE EAST

Another great paddle from Dunmore East – in glorious sunshine this time!

Got to see the new RNLI Shannon Class lifeboat – William and Agnes Wray – out on manoeuvres.

DUNMORE EAST TO SALEENS

A great peer paddle and our first A to B paddle. Worked out a treat with a great crew, on a lively day.

TRAMORE PIER

Paddling at night is a great experience – when with a competent peer group. As the light fades, other senses kick in – particularly hearing as paddling close to the coastline.

Tramore Pier is a great put in. Make sure to avoid parking that blocks the RNLI station or other emergency vehicles. Other than that – an easy carry to a quick launch. We headed out along the headland and had dinner out at Nash Bay beach.

TRAMORE PIER

Again, putting in at Tramore Pier is super easy.

This was a really enjoyable peer paddle out around the headline and further west, for a stunning sunset.

The Metal Man stands on one of three pillars near Newtown Cove, the maritime beacons were constructed through Lloyds of London at the behest of the Admiralty after the tragic loss of 360 lives after HMS Seahorse sank after becoming grounded at Brownstown Head in bad weather, this tragedy happened in 1816.

The Metal Man is still standing today and dressed in British sailors clothes, a blue jacket, red top and white trousers.

GOLD COAST

The Gold Coast is another great put in option out of Dungarvan. Plenty of parking and an easy carry. Also, the nearby hotel is great for coffee after a paddle.

The paddle out passes Ballinacourty Point Lighthouse, which is a great landmark. The long white walls increase it’s visibility from the sea. The light at Ballinacourty was first established on 1st July 1858. The light was converted to acetylene operation in 1929. Electrification of the light took place on 12th February 1964. The present light source comprises a cluster of 4 x 35W halogen lamps and was installed during the 2005 re-equip of the station.

This was a great paddle out to Elephant Rock and back.

Wexford Coastline

HOOK HEAD

Our first paddle in Wexford (and as of v1, our only paddle in Wexford!).

Really enjoyed getting out to Hook Head. Our initial plan was to put in a Fethard. However, there was a land based activity and all roads to the town were closed off. Undeterred, we headed to Baginbun Beach, but the conditions were lively. So onwards to our final put in at Slade harbour.

Slade harbour was really pretty and a nice put in spot - very easy!

We headed out to Hook Head, which was dramatic. Having previously visited the lighthouse, it was nice to experience it from the sea.

One of the real highlights was a common dolphin suddenly breaching twice within 5m of us! It happened so quickly, I didn’t get a chance to get the camera to it. Still wonderful to see (up real close!).

Afterwards we heading back along the headland, exploring the coastline. It is mainly low-lying red sandstone, with some rugged beaches.

We got back to Baginbun Head and at that point turned for the homeward leg. We didn’t get to Fethard - next time!

SUPPORTING RNLI SWIMS

While we tend to plan on not having to call on the RNLI, it is a comfort to know that a RNLI volunteer crew is ready to respond to a shout.

It is a great opportunity to pay some of that assurance back, by providing kayak safety support at an RNLI charity swim. Typically these range from 2-4km and the kayakers provide safety support for the swimmers. If a swimmer gets into difficulty, we can assist getting them to a RIB standing off.

These events are also a great opportunity to catch up with friends on and off the water.