Venue: Two Tree Island (SS9 2GB)
Meeting: from c.5.45pm
Launch: after 6.10pm briefing
Finish: c.8.00pm
Level: Competent coastal paddlers only

Gentle warning: although the forecast is allowing us out at the coast from Two Tree tonight, the predicted light (enough) breeze now seems to have turned north-westerly, which means we’re going to need to push back against both a headwind and a bit of tide. Which isn’t something we’d usually do. It could prove ‘challenging’ and potentially tiring for some. We still can’t see how it could be too fierce or choppy (if it is, we’ll just hide out in the dogleg) so it should be within the ability of all regular SUP Clubbers – but we will be heading back against the end of the outgoing tide and some breeze, as the sun sets and moving into dusk. Therefore tonight won’t be ideal for everyone – it’s definitely not for new SUP Clubbers, weaker paddlers or those of a nervous disposition…

So, only suitable for experienced coastal paddlers (as we’d expect to get right at the start of the season). Plus we’ll need to make sure we stay well grouped up and together throughout; so faster paddlers, please be ready and patient for plenty of looping and regrouping as necessary. The (0.88m) low tide and a light enough westerly breeze mean we can hit the coast from Two Tree. If conditions allow we’re planning to head down the Ray, launching over an hour before the 19.30 low water and turning before the tide turns. We’ll have to see how far we can safely get before turning and heading home before it gets dark after the 7.30pm sunset.

This week needs to be competent, confident coastal paddlers only (ie; able to stand up and paddle strong and non-stop for 90+ minutes, able to paddle themselves out of trouble if necessary, with experience of exposed 8km estuary routes) with the necessary strength and ability to paddle themselves home against a headwind and diminishing tide. And definitely not in need of a lesson to do so – which of course we offer via www.supsect.com/learn-to-sup.

So meeting from 5.45pm at Two Tree ahead of a 6.10pm briefing at the top of the slipway (please, no late-comers tonight, we need everyone ready to go as we’ll be hitting the water straight after). Then once we’re done we’ll head off to the pub for a quick dinner and drink…