As the main shipping channel runs between Calshot and Cowes this is a difficult crossing point due to the large volume of traffic that uses this stretch of the Solent. From large oil tankers to ferries and fast cats, as well as a large number of sailing boats.

Lepe to Gurnard offers a less busy route, with clear views as you cross at 90 degrees to chanel. It is then a short hop along the coast to Cowes.

The actual crossing is quick – 30 minutes on my return journey – as long as you pick the right state of tide and weather conditions. I left just after the second high tide with the plan of aiming off on the return journey if the tide dictated.

Paddling out I used the cardinal mark off Lepe as a waypoint and took a minute or too holding position here to check for any large traffic on the horizon. Satisfied all was clear I headed straight for Gurnard. There is a nice, small beach with a Cafe at Gurnard which provided a pitstop for a cup of tea and a chat with a couple paddling sit on top kayaks. Then on along the coast into Cowes.

I didn’t stop at Cowes, just paddled around and enjoyed the sights and sounds before paddling back around the coast towards Gurnard. Once clear of the shipping lanes and with a clear view of the traffic I aimed directly for Lepe and 30 minutes later was enjoying a cuppa on the beach.

View Larger Map

Route:
Outward:
Lepe (Grid: 456 985) to Gurnard (Grid: 477 958) to Cowes (Grid: 496 962 )

Return:
Reverse of outward route.

Coastal Forecast:
Pressure – 1013 mB F
Temp max/min – 26/17 degrees C
Wind speed – F3 becoming F3-4
Wind direction – E
Max gust in knots – 16 becoming 20
Sea state – Slight
Visibility – Very good becoming Good

Isle of Wight Sea Kayaking also operate Island Kayaks; they supply all the main brands including Palm, Werner, Lendal, Dagger, Wilderness Systems, Perception and many more. They have in the last year taken over the South Coast’s main dealership for Valley Sea Kayaks and have almost a complete range of demo boats to try out.

Email: enquiries@iow-seakayaking.co.uk
Website: www.iow-seakayaking.co.uk

Phone: 01983 752043
Fax: 01983 209471

Isle of Wight Sea Kayaking
The Sandpipers
Freshwater Bay
Isle of Wight
PO40 9QX