Plymouth – perfect for paddling
A huge breakwater protects Plymouth Sound from winter gales and offers lots of protected water. It is perfect for paddling all year round. The city waterfront is a unique place for sea kayaking. The historic Barbican is where the Pilgrims set out for the new world of America in 1620. You can launch just a few paces from the the very steps where these people embarked on a new life adventure more than 400 years ago. The Hoe is a beautiful grassy backdrop to south-facing shore. This is where Sir Francis Drake finished his game of bowls before defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588.
Plymouth Sound
Once into Plymouth Sound you are spoiled for choice. The Devon shore to the east is delightfully picturesque and often tranquil. Jennycliff Bay has recently been re-seeded with eel grass. You’ll find small sandy coves protected by rocks and reefs. The cliffs are clad in greenery and waterfalls tumble into the sea. Caves and gullies provide plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself and the gentle swell from the west adds to the interest. Fort Bovisand guards the eastern entrance to the Sound. Once you venture beyond here the swell becomes more evident.
The Cornwall shore to the west is equally beautiful but more rugged. It is usually a little more protected along this shore unless there is a big swell, in which case it will penetrate through the wide western entrance to the Sound. A proper tidal race develops between Drake’s Island and the mainland when wind and tide are opposing. Once you’re past this section there are many small coves where landing is possible and the twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand are within easy reach. Continue along the shore to Penlee Point and then head west to Rame Head for a more committing trip.
Plymouth Hoe
One of the best trips is along the northern shore. There are bathing huts, Tinside Lido and numerous waterfront attractions to keep you occupied. Keep an eye out for swimmers! Staying close to the shore will keep you away from most other water users. Check out the big red and white striped lighthouse called Smeaton’s Tower standing tall and prominent on the Hoe. This has become an icon of Plymouth and is instantly recognisable. It was originally built on the dangerous rocks and reefs known as the Eddystone found nine miles south of the Breakwater. When a new, taller and more powerful lighthouse was constructed to replace it the tower was dismantled stone by stone. It was brought back to the mainland and reconstructed on Plymouth Hoe. Only the stump of the original foundations now remains out on the reef.
The Narrows
Passing between Drake’s Island and the Brittany Ferries terminal, Devil’s Point sticks out from the Plymouth side and creates a strong back eddy. You might have to nip in very close to avoid strong currents and naval traffic here. Look to your left and admire Mount Edgcumbe at the top of the sweeping lawn. Look to the right and marvel at the Royal William Yard. Until recently this was an essential supply facility for the Royal Navy. Now it’s been transformed into apartments and piazzas full of bars and boutiques but the buildings still bear the names of the functions they performed.
Out to sea
Beyond the breakwater a rugged and picturesque coastline stretches out to the east and west. If moving water, tidal races and surf are your pleasure you’ll find them here. Studded with sandy beaches, wooded estuaries, fishing villages and tiny coves, the coast is picturesque, wild and mostly undeveloped. An abundance of wildlife can be observed from a respectful distance. The sea is sometimes smooth but can often become really rough as the swells generated thousands of miles away arrive close to the shore. Whenever you paddle along these coasts you will always feel the restlessness of the Atlantic Ocean.
Finding British Sea Kayaks
My base is set in a tranquil location just minutes from the historic waterside borough of Saltash. There are numerous local places to launch with easy parking and a variety of conditions on offer. It’s the perfect place to try a new sea kayak so just click below to contact me for an appointment.