Paddlers: Allan, Dave, Lee, Geoff, Douglas, Steve W., Gordon, Adam and Paul
Weather: Glorious but a stiff easterly (F4) out of the shelter of the hills
Route
Report: The broad intention was to paddle across Loch Long for a convivial drink at the newly re-opened Ardentinny Inn, thereby adding Sea Kayakers to the list of valued clients. Pushed along by the wind (literally for the lone kayak sailor) we crossed in no time and climbed the steps on to a lovely new patio with splendid chairs. The doors to the bar were open but the pub itself would have done Marie Celeste proud. Investigation by Steve brought forth the owner who informed us they were closed on Tuesdays so no coffee and no beer. So, after a short period sampling the comfort of the armchairs (excellent), we set off back. This was a much stiffer proposition but we were still far too early to stop so a paddle along the shore was proposed and accepted. The evening and sunset was marvelous.
We paddled up to Auchentower Point just north of Knockderry where there is an extremely expensive/luxurious property with an incredible glass window overlooking the sea. The partially clothed couple clearly did not expect to see nine sea kayakers looking in just as we did not expect to see them looking out. I have a feeling the beauty of sea kayaks exceeded the beauty of the human forms.
We got back well past bed time just as the light was finally dying (9.45?) after around 11km in a little over 2 hours. Fast loading and a clear road got us back just after 11pm; an excellent evening.