Overview
EARLY BIRD price until 31st Oct £575 (Includes 5 nights of camping)
Next available dates 2027:
31st May - 4 places left
21st June - Fully Booked
There is probably no better place to sea kayak for the first time than on the crystal clear blue waters of the Isles of Scilly. See these islands from a whole new perspective. Perhaps you will be followed by a curious seal or notice the cry of the Oyster catchers on the shore, or maybe spot a puffin or two. Stop on a deserted sandy beach for lunch, explore the history of the islands and there is even time for a dip in the sea if you dare.
This trip is ideal for physically fit, active beginners or kayakers seeking an easier pace, this supportive
trip builds skills and confidence through scenic journeys, wildlife watching
and island stops. No previous experience is required, though reasonable fitness
is important for consecutive paddling days and potential of paddling into wind or tide, depending on the weather.
Paddlers should be comfortable sitting upright with their legs out in front of them. Bad backs, tight hamstrings or hip flexors can lead to an uncomfortable experience.
We aim to do plenty of sea kayaking with trips to as many of the islands as we can get to! Enjoying the wildlife and the breath taking scenery that this unique location has to offer. These beautiful islands are not to be missed. Once visited they find a place in your heart that keeps you coming back. Learn to sea kayak or advance the skills you already have. Meet some like minded people, and even make lifetime friends as you chat over a drink in the pub that boasts the best view in Britain!
Our qualified and very experienced guides work under the professional bodies of Paddle UK, they create a relaxed and fun environment in which to learn and improve.
Itinerary
Day one - you arrive on the Scillonian ferry to St Mary's and catch an inter-island ferry to St Martins. You will have time to set up your tents before we head out onto the water at around 14.00. We use this first session to teach you some of the basics and get you used to the boats and kit. It can really help to get any nerves out the way enabling you to really enjoy the rest of the trip. We will help you to build on your skills each day as we explore the islands. We will be back on land in time to shower and head to the pub for dinner for those that wish to join us.
Day Two, Three and Four - We will meet at 10am giving you time to nip to the island bakery for breakfast and to collect a freshly made delicious roll for lunch, if you so wish. Our exact routes will be based on the weather and the group ability. Examples of routes we may do are; a paddle to the Eastern Isles where you can see iron age burial settlements and a large seal colony, a kayak to Round island and Men-a-Vaur to find Guillemots, Razorbills and Puffins, or a kayak to Tresco to sample some local ice cream and fine beaches. There are numerous uninhabited islands to explore and land on too.
Day Five - a day for you to explore St Martin's by foot, laze on a deserted beach or take an inter-island ferry to one of the other islands. St Martin's has a number of welcoming cafes, a vineyard and rum distillery that offer tours or you can book a trip snorkelling with seals.
This is an example itinerary, we will aim to kayak on the days with the best weather forecast.
Make sure you book your ferry home for the Saturday (day six) or you will miss your last day of kayaking/exploring on foot. The inter-island ferry leaves St Martins around 10.30 giving you lots of time to explore the historic Garrison of St Mary's, or enjoy the local food and drink, before catching the Scillonian back to Penzance. Obviously you can stay longer, you will just need to arrange this accommodation separately yourself. If you are planning on flying out be aware that the luggage allowance is much smaller and ensure that your flight time fits with inter island ferries. Give us a call to discuss it if you need help.
Please note that we also offer 5 day trips for more experienced paddlers and Roaming trips where you experience camping on other islands and carrying all your kit in the boat.
The cost includes your tuition/guiding fee and kayaking kit (boat, spray deck, paddle, buoyancy aid, cag, helmet and long john wetsuit). It also includes camping for five nights. Please note we use Dagger Stratos 14.5ft kayaks. We have both small and large options. Unlike sit-on-top kayaks they have a finite seat width of 45cm. They suit individuals that are 6ft 2" or shorter and they have a weight limit of 100kg. If you are unsure it would be best to try one out before booking.
We require a non-refundable deposit of £150 to secure your booking. The balance is due 6 weeks before your trip. Please note there is a small booking fee.
Other costs to be booked and paid for separately by you:
- Ferry approx £180 https: www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk
- Inter-island ferry St Mary’s to St Martin's and back about £14 (you do not need to book this it will collect your luggage from the Scillonian and be ready to take you soon after you arrive on St Marys so hang around and keep a look out)
- Camping equipment and food for the week
Do get in contact if you have any questions.
Inclusions
Accommodation - No Frills
Five nights camping at St Martin's Campsite are included in the price. You will need to bring your own camping equipment etc.
What's Included
🧰 Equipment - Kayak, helmet, cag, paddle, buoyancy aid, spray deck, long-john wetsuit.
What you'll need
🍴 Food - You will be providing your own food. There is a pub, fish and chip shop, bakery and small food shop on the island.
🥤 Drink - Bring 2 reusable water bottles at least 750ml
⛺ Camping Equipment - If you choose to camp you will need to bring everything you will need
📋 Other - We will provide you with a suggested kit list upon booking