Calstock trip - 13/05/07
Terry Calcott writes.
One of my favourite trips Calstock to Weirhead(near Gunnislake)
and return. The group gathered at the Calstock waterfront
car park just after midday for a 12:30 start. 18 boats then
assembled on the slipway, ranging from small GP kayaks, sea
kayaks and a yellow double kayak paddled by triumphant DW
paddlers Paul & Mike. After the usual concise brief from
the leader the group were ready for the off, well nearly.
A car suddenly appeared loaded down with cakes and a couple
of kayaks ready for the 1:00 paddle? (funny that's what I
thought what 1:00 paddle). However my forgiveness was swift
as flapjack & fruit cake were loaded into one of the sea
kayaks. After another head count (this time 20 boats), but
as Clive pointed out that meant 21 paddlers, counting was
never my strong point. The group headed up the river, the
plan being to reach Weirhead not far from Gunnislake using
the incoming tide to speed us on our way. For those that are
unfamiliar with the upper reaches of the Tamar estuary, the
river starts to narrow after Calstock and twists and turns
its way to Weirhead (the upper tidal limit). The scenery is
stunning particularly this time of year when the trees surrounding
the river give an amazing display of different shades of green.
This is also a good place for spotting Kingfishers (but not
today). We paddled on and settled down to a leisurely pace,
various micro groups formed and friendly conversation flowed.
Well nearly everyone settled down, the yellow double could
be glimpsed zipping up and down the river (reliving DW memories).
After passing Morwellham and a few more turns in the river
we reached the Morwell rocks, a half gorge with high rocks
on one side, usually frequented by Peregrine falcons (but
not today). After a few more turns Weirhead is in sight, the
flow of fresh water from the opposite direction became evident
and forward paddling slows. The group find still water in
a large eddy, and a few paddlers play in the friendly waves.
Feeding time at Morwellham.
We then turned and headed back towards Morwellham for a well-earned
tea break. With the flow now going with us we reached it in
next to no time.After the consumption of flapjack & fruitcake
and with everyone's energy levels now replenished (thanks
again to Mary for making the delicious cakes). The shorter
kayaks seal launched off the bank, all the paddlers had one
go apart from Jane H who wanted 2 goes (I wonder why). We
then continued back to Calstock, completing another thoroughly
enjoyable afternoon paddle. Time spent paddling about 3 hours,
time spent drifting / resting about 40 minutes. Total distance
paddled (approx 9-10 miles) (20 miles for the yellow double).
Seal launching
Also a special mention to Joe McArdle (the youngest paddler
on the water) for an outstanding effort in completing his
first club paddle.
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