This is a circumnavigation of the Isle of Bute involving 2 nights camping.
The intention is to meet and launch from the public parking and slipway at Largs Marina (NGR - NS 20791 57459) on Friday evening. Meet at 16.30 and launch at approx. 17.30 with a short paddle (approx. 11 Km) to the south end of Bute at Glencallum Bay (NS 11190 52785). Camp at Glencallum Bay.
Saturday we will paddle north up the Sound of Bute, passed Inchmarnock and into the Kyles of Bute with the intention of camping at Balnakilly Bay or Burn Islands (NGR NS 02260 74292). It is likely there will be some time for exploring on the way as this is approx. 31Kms.
Sunday will be a paddle south from Collintraive down the east coast of Bute crossing the Clyde to the North tip of Great Cumbrae Island (approx. 30Km). Once again there should be time for exploring and watching the wildlife.
The paddling involves small crossings between the mainland and islands of up to 5kms and paddlers should be capable of undertaking this, there are some gentle tide races. The weather at the moment looks fine and the sea state low, however I will take stock on Thursday evening and adjust the plans or cancel as necessary.
The trip involves wild camping with sites that have limited access to fresh water, so you should be comfortable with this and suitably equipped to be self-sufficient.
1. Event co-ordinator Chris Wade
2. Trip Leader: Chris Wade
3. Trip type: Coastal Sea kayaking with up to 5Km crossings to between mainland and island.
8. Travel: 3.5 hours from South Lakes to Largs. I have one space available with me leaving Lancaster at lunchtime Friday, otherwise please arrange travel yourself as necessary.
