Connemara Sea Kayak Expedition

Duration: 9 Days (includes travelling days)

Minimum Standard: This will be a challenging undertaking and you should be an experienced sea kayaker able to paddle in wind and sea conditions of force 3 to 5 with the fitness to cover 20km per day. Please speak to one of our kayak coaches if you have any concerns about your suitability for this tour.

Minimum Age: 18yrs + 

Connemara, on the mid-west coast of Ireland, provides a deeply indented coastline with many offshore islands among truly magnificent scenery. From Clifden, a chain of islands and bays stretches northwards.

The islands provide shelter and calm water on their landward sides, with more challenging paddling among the cliffs of the seaward coasts. There are plenty of caves, cliffs, stacks and gullies, along with abundant undisturbed wildlife.

All the islands provide plenty of wilderness camping in places such as Inish Bofin, Inish Shark, Inish Turk, Caher Island, Crump, Inish Deigal and Killary harbour. Driftwood fires and an opportunity to explore and share stories of the day provide plenty of opportunity to relax off the water.

Lone abandoned crofts and small communities add spice to the atmosphere. The mainland is never far away, offering opportunities to re-stock supplies and sample local refreshments.

The principal aim of this trip is to provide an enjoyable sea kayaking expedition in remote and beautiful surroundings, with a focus on trip planning considerations, safety issues and navigation/chart work skills

One unusual feature is the variety of challenges and difficulties contained in so small an area. Thus, it is possible to complete simple flat water trips and more challenging rough water excursions on the same day in the same area. The nature of the coastline encourages journeying during the week from island to island - however there is no need to travel long distances, as we usually spend a great deal of time exploring around each cliff and headland. Often the most enjoyable days cover the fewest miles!

We always pray to the weather gods before departure - but we’re not making any promises! What we will do is to make the very best of whatever is thrown at us.

Equipment

Plas Menai has an excellent fleet of Sea Kayak UK Explorer kayaks in a range of sizes for you to use. We also take our Double Valley Alut kayak which everybody will get a chance to use. We can supply all technical and camping equipment, as well as any outer clothing you may need.

If you wish to bring your own kayak you must contact the centre and speak to one of the expedition leaders to check its suitability.

PLEASE NOTE: This trip departs early on Saturday morning. Accommdation is reserved for you on Friday evening prior to your departure day. Accommodation is also reserved for you on the evening of your return to the Centre.

Price does not include food.