Fun in the North Sea

Whiling an autumn Sunday afternoon away in the North Sea isn’t something I would ever have imagined doing until I came across Cullercoats Bike & Kayak.

Established some six months ago, Cullercoats Bike & Kayak does exactly what it says on the tin. Simon, the owner, offers tours and rents out kayaks and bikes, providing the perfect way to explore the dramatic and beautiful coastline of the area.

Luckily taster sessions are also on hand, ideal for a complete novice like me to get to grips with a kayak and learn the ropes.

Unsure what to expect and extremely nervous about the prospect of dipping into the cold North Sea, I took comfort in the aptly named Snug, a small but perfectly formed café area with coffee in front of an open fire, located upstairs at Cullercoats Bike & Kayak.

Upon completing the obligatory health and safety forms and changing into a wet suit I was handed a special paddle for my left-handed awkwardness and we set off for sea.

I was surprised how quickly I got the hang of paddling and we were soon far enough out in the bay to enjoy the views and surrounding rocks and cliffs.

However, this was not a mere session for enjoying views. Soon the expert instructor was dishing out challenges including languishing on the front of the kayak Superman style.

And I discovered attempting to stand up on the kayak quickly results in falling into the water in a dramatic fashion.

The session was rounded off with the recreation of an emergency situation with paddles lost and kayaks upturned providing a glimpse into just how hard it is to manoeuvre and retrieve equipment in the water.

My wetsuit kept me remarkably warm blowing all my reservations over the cold out of the, er, water and warming up afterwards in the toasty Snug as a bunch of people played tunes and sang was most enjoyable.

I never would have known that an autumn afternoon in the North Sea could be such fun – roll on next time!

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