kayaking

A great day that could only gave been improved if I'd gotten away earlier. 

I launched at Mambo with bananas & water into a steady SE headwind coming slightly offshore. I didn't consider paddling the opposite way because of the strong ebb flow - I would have shot away & had to paddle to windward on the return.
I mined the treelined shore for protection & did well until Peppers. Typical of any large tidal port the tide can change at the mouth while upstream its the other way. Gradually the two meet where there is a tussle until the new flow wins out. Bring a headland, Peppers attracted a strong tussle of tides, but also wind as we faced off with the ocean for the first time. 
Fortunately a kayak, even end inflatable one, is a slippery fellow & we forged ahead. Clear of the harbour I went ashore to reset the seat position, add air due to the cool water, swallow a banana & guzzle water. From there we headed to Bagnalls, but going by a smaller headland I was again thrown by wind & tide. The wind getting stronger, now NE, & the inshore flow was still ebbing. I was tiring, its been a while since I've paddled ... so we turned back. I enjoyed the 1.5l bottle, not having to conserve water. 
The sun was fierce going back & despite the tailwind, the contraflow was stiff. I could see & hear the ebb 300m towards the middle fairway. Smoke from Buladelah fires was hiding a lot, but a half dozen racing yachts were out there too.
As happens, refounding Peppers saw the whole paddle ease back to a Love Boat Cruise. I was literally guzzling water & chomping a barny while we made headway. 
A long beautiful paddle ensued followed by a swim & cold shower. Feeling blessed! 
No photos because I left my phone in the car.Huh  

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