It's an awesome paddle under the M4 bridge, both visually and the interesting tidal conditions. The Bristol Channel is susceptable to unstructured waves (many different directions and heights) and so you need to be a strong and confident paddler with sound deep water rescue skills. Once launched there are practically no escapes so once again confidence and fitness required. The flood tide runs at upto 4.8 knt (5.5mph) at Portishead at 10:00 and the ebb rises to 3.8 knt (4.4 mph).
HW at Chepstow is 12:16 and it's springs so we'll see how far up the Wye we can get before we have to stop for lunch and then return on the ebb.
We must launch from Portishead Sailing Club at 10:00 and expect to be entering the Wye at 11:30. We'll go up the river until the flood stream stops, then have some lunch. On the way back we may stop off at Chapel Rock, just off Beachley Point, before entering the strong current taking us home. We should be back at Portishead about 15:40.
You must satisfy yourself that this trip is suitable for you, that you are sufficiently experienced, able and willing to paddle at the advertised level. For detailed guidance, see trip categoristion. If in doubt, seek guidance from the advertised leader before registering.
You must register if you intend to come. Places are restricted in an effort to maintain an acceptable leader/participant ratio. When the list is full names can still be registered as reserves and the leader will notify you if you may join the trip.
If you want to know more about how trips are conducted see trip routine.
You must bring suitable equipment or make arrangements for someone to bring it for you (eg. kayak). See what to bring.
Bath Canoe Club Ltd, The Old Organ Factory, Cleveland Cottages, Bath BA1 5DD.