First Paddle of Year ...

Between work commitments and the weather, opportunities to get out on the water have been few so far this year.  However today say the first paddle of the year.  For a change, headed across to the West Coast, to Fairlie, and had a shortish paddle across to Wee Cumbrae, in the company of a few folk from Cowal Canoe Club. 

We left Fairlie in calm water, and slipped by Hunterston Terminal ...

After crossing over to Milport, there was some discussion about whether or not to go into Milport or head round Wee Cumbrae. 

With talk of torches, compromise was reached, and we headed to the castle on Wee Cumbrae ...

A quick lunch, the I headed back to Farlie.  The others headed into Milport for "light refreshment" ...

On the way back, the "Baianhai" was docking at Hunterston ...

Tempting though it was to play chicken, common sense prevailed and I paddled round it's stern.  The ship is a touch under 300 metres long, and registered under a Chinese flag. 

So an easy and enjoyable start to the year.