Saturday 29^th March

Our first day paddling from Fortescue Bay was out to Cape Hauy. There, we admired the dolerite columns called the Totem Pole and the Candle Stick. We had protection from the southerly wind as we skirted along the rocky cliffs and enjoyed the swell crashing in and the rebound waves. There was a sea eagle spotted perched on the cliff and it didn’t seem worried by our proximity. Within the protected area beside the Totem Pole and Candle Stick there were lots of seals that swam around our kayaks. Venturing further out on the exposed side of Cape Hauy the wind was quite strong and had generated waves which broke over the bow of kayaks almost to the cockpit. The group split; with some paddling around the outer islands, called The Lanterns, while others stayed on the sheltered side and paddled the northern side of these islands.

The wind changed as we were paddling back and as we entered the inner part of the bay we had a strong head wind, about 20 knots. Luckily it wasn’t far back to the launch beach. We were back at camp by lunch time which gave time to walk out and view Cape Hauy from the land perspective. The walk out was along a well maintained track because Cape Hauy is part of the Three Capes Walk.

Sunday 30^th March

This day’s paddle was to the north from Fortescue Bay past the Devils Kitchen, Tasman Arch and the Blow Hole then into Pirates Bay finishing at the boat ramp. Because this was a one way paddle we organised a car shuttle to have a few cars at the landing spot.

The coastline is breath taking. The cliffs are so tall you get a sore neck looking up and there are sea caves, rocky arches and plenty of sea life along the way. We were fortunate in having a following wind for most of the paddle. However, there was still a swell coming in from the east causing rebound waves and surging waves that needed negotiating as we paddled into caves and close to rocky outcrops and reefs. A moment’s distraction watching seals resulted in one capsize and roll, luckily the seals weren’t fazed by the short intrusion. The tourists at Tasman Arch were surprised when we paddled in under the arch and into the pool at the end.

After about a 4 ½ hours paddling we enjoyed a late lunch on the beach and then the car shuttle returned people and kayaks.

Overall statistics (Links point to GPX track files)