One of our main aims in resurrecting the club was to row trips around our amazing local coastline. We have rowed every section of the Ynys Môn coast and plan to continue these adventure rows.
Planning a trip can be intimidating, but careful preparation and a dynamic risk assessment on the day can significantly reduce the risks.
Decide on the route
- Is the route realistic?
- How far and how long will it take?
- How much does it depend on crew strength?
- What are the challenges?
- How can tide and weather risks be minimised?
- What conditions are required?
Select the date
Once you understand the trip, select a date with optimum tide conditions. Slack water does not necessarily correspond to high or low water, so find out when the relevant slacks occur.
- Phil Orr’s tide spreadsheet includes slack-water information.
- Glazebrook’s Ynys Môn & North Wales Coast book is detailed, with newer versions based on the original.
- Sea-kayak articles around Ynys Môn can help, though kayakers may seek conditions we avoid.
- Welsh Sea Kayaking includes researched route descriptions.
Before launch
Assess the weather in the run-up to the trip and have a plan B. Include boat logistics, setup time, food and drink. Inform others of your plans and let the coastguard know of your trip on the day, including your safe return, where appropriate.
On the day, confirm the conditions still suit the plan and check that all safety equipment is present before setting off.