These magical islands, off the south west coast of Cornwall, are a fantastic place to kayak.  Not to mention the sense of peace that washes over you as you step onto St Martin's quay.  This trip is based from St Martin's campsite and gives you 3.5 days on the water and a rest day to explore the islands on foot.

 

Is This Trip Right for Me?

​Think ski/mountain bike grades click for more information

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Green Trip

An easier pace with shorter journeys and more sheltered rountes.  Ideal for beginners who are physically fit and active or kayakers who are seeking an easier pace.  This trip builds skills and confidence through scenic journeys, wildlife watching and island stops. No previous experience is required, though reasonable fitness is important for consecutive paddling days and you may need to paddle into wind or tide depending on the weather we get. 

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Blue Trip

Rewarding, longer journeys through varied waters. Designed for paddlers with at least three days’ closed-cockpit kayak and spray-deck experience, this trip offers longer days, greater distances and occasional wind or lively water. Good fitness and feeling comfortable paddling for up to 90 minutes before a break on land will enable your enjoyment.  We will still enjoy relaxed drifting, wildlife watching and deserted beach stops. You should also be comfortable sitting upright with your legs extended for sustained periods.

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Still not sure if this is right for you? Call or email us — we're happy to chat it through

 

What Will We See and Do?

Every day on the water is different, because every day Mark plans the route around the tides, weather and conditions.  The added rest day enables him to make the most of the weather for you.  What doesn't change is the quality of what you'll experience.

The Islands

Based on St Martin's camped behind the sand dunes, a 3min walk to a beautiful white sandy beach, you'll paddle to different islands each day. You may visit the Eastern Isles, Tresco, St Helens and as many of the 140 islands as conditions allow. On your day off, explore on foot: the famous Abbey Gardens at Tresco, St Martin's Vineyard, or the island's brilliant pub with what's widely considered the best view in Britain.

Wildlife

Atlantic grey seals are a common encounter — curious, unhurried and completely unafraid of kayakers. In the right season you may spot puffins on the outer islands, Guillemots and many Razorbills. Look down and the water does the rest: the clarity of the sea is like looking into an aquarium. 

Come Rain or Shine

The Scillies can be unpredictable. If the weather shifts, Mark shifts with it — adjusting routes, picking sheltered crossings and always making sure you're safe and having a great time.

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What's Included in Your Trip Price
✓    5 nights camping at St Martin's campsite
✓    All kayaking tuition and guiding with Paddle UK qualified guide Mark Meardon
✓    Closed cockpit sea kayak (Dagger Stratos 14.5ft)
✓    Spray deck, paddle, buoyancy aid, helmet, cag and long john wetsuit
✓    All safety equipment carried by your guide
✓    3 and a half days on the water plus 1 day off to explore the islands

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Not Included — Book & Pay Separately
✗    Scillonian Ferry from Penzance to St Mary's (book via islesofscilly-travel.co.uk)
✗    Inter-island ferry St Mary's to St Martin's and back (approx. £7 one way)
✗    Your camping equipment and food for the week
✗    Travel and cancellation insurance (required)
 

Your Guide: Mark Meardon
Mark grew up in Cornwall — kayaking, windsurfing and surfing from a young age, with a father who passed on a lifelong love of the water. He's been guiding sea kayaking trips in the Isles of Scilly for over 10 years, and has spent more hours on these islands than he can count.
His experience ranges from guiding Royal Marine recruits during their 32-week training to teaching complete beginners on their very first paddling session as a lecturer at Truro and Falmouth Colleges. That breadth means he has an instinctive ability to read a group and adapt — pushing those who want a challenge, supporting those who need reassurance, and always keeping everyone safe and smiling.
Before basing himself back in Cornwall, Mark worked as a safety kayaker in Nepal, spent six months whitewater kayaking in New Zealand, and taught watersports in the Alps. He has seen a lot of water. 

Anna Meardon runs things off the water — from booking and logistics. Between them, they aim to make sure you have a fantastic week on the islands.

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Our Boats

We use Dagger Stratos 14.5 ft sea kayaks in small and large sizes.  Unlike sit-on tops they have a finite cockpit/seat width of 45cm that you need to fit inside.  They are suitable if you are 6 ft 2" or shorter, and have a weight limit of 100kg.