The sky was clear and the sea calm as I peeped out of my tent this morning. For some reason it was only 5.20 and I was awake and even the sun was smiling at me!
I was on the water at 07.30- admitably the put was made that much easier with the help of Chris and John, a couple of local paddlers who turned up just at that perfect moment! They were out to make the most of the day and head out to the islands!
There was the gentlest of breezes on my back as we cruised across Larne and then onto Belfast. If circumstances had been different it would have been great to call in and visit previous work colleagues- or give them a fright in my soggy paddling gear!
The paddle across Belfast Lough was easy enough, but the thought of getting squished not overly appealing, especially as I don’t have any comms now! Lizzie worked the magic and advised the Harbour I’d be there and they did a great job of ensuring I had the whole Lough all to myself for the 2.5 hour crossing and nothing crossed! Squishing fears on hold now until Dublin Bay!
It makes for a feeling of such a light relief now that I am in civilisation, knowing I am paddling past houses and cars is comforting and reassuring after the previous days and weeks. The towns at the top of Belfast Lough are very attractive and I pottered as the tide kept me moving- in the right direction for once!
So- another 30nm further, and BallyHalbert was today’s stopping place! We’re exploring the area and headed across Strangford Lough for a lovely pub meal! Tomorrow’s weather is looking promising, so let’s see what tomorrow brings!!
Scary…great you got through.
Sorry to hear spot decided to have a rest hope paddles is there with you ! You know what to do for Dublin Bay .. Sonja in the boat with flags ! Sonja are you up for it ?
re camping, always limestone when you least expect it.. hope you got some sleep ..
You have exam weather ahead of you .. that means when important school exams happen the weather always improves.
Dalkey here you come !
Siobhan x
cant believe how much ground…or maybe that should be water you have covered and youre still going strong, then again, it would be strange to think of anything less from you!! make the most of what youve got left to do, bet it will feel strange soon when youve been there, done it and worn the tshirt!! where to next then? austrailia perhaps??…youd get rly nice weather there too!! bet it was scary with no comms, but you being you always coping just fine!!
anyway lots of love to you and waddles
beth xx
Hi, Have been trying to keep track of you on your way round, sounds like you are having a fantastic adventure! Your sheer determination is an inspiration…you go girl, the finishing post must nearly be in sight. Hope the weather treats you well for the rest of your paddle. Jo R (mona)