Words: Joanne Hagan
& Craig Leslie

Photos: Nigel Dennis
unless stated

Anglesey Sea Kayak Symposium

With a resounding success, the inaugural Anglesey Sea Kayak Symposium made waves as a truly remarkable gathering. A whopping 160 sea kayakers from around the globe flocked to the event. It was a significant milestone, with reports claiming it to be the largest assembly of paddlers ever seen in Britain.

The enthusiasm was infectious, as participants went to great lengths to attend, including a couple from Sweden who piloted their plane to be part of the action.

Fascinating origins
Since its inception in 1983, the Anglesey Sea Kayak Symposium has cemented its status as arguably the UK’s most enduring sea kayak meet. But do you know its fascinating origins? Originally known as the ‘Nordkapp Owners Meet,’ it paid tribute to the iconic Nordkapp kayak, a design masterpiece by Frank Goodman. This remarkable vessel gained recognition during the British Norway expedition in 1975 when a group of intrepid kayakers embarked on an awe-inspiring journey from Bodo to Nordkapp in Northern Norway. Inspired by their expedition, Frank, Nigel Dennis, and Stanislav Chladek created the Nordkapp Trust, a dedicated fund to support the welfare of this definitive boat.

Thanks to the generosity of the Nordkapp Trust, the first-ever ‘International Nordkapp Owners Meet’ took place, welcoming Nordkapp owners free of charge and offering other sea kayakers the opportunity to participate for a modest fee. The event found its home at the Anglesey Sea and Surf Centre, expertly hosted by the legendary Nigel Dennis, who has since founded Sea Kayaking UK and Celtic Paddles and remains the sole director.
that inaugural event

As I chatted with Nigel, he took a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about that inaugural event and recounting how he led workshops on tidal races and overfalls, which have become synonymous with the symposium and its fantastic location. But that’s not all – the event also featured some truly epic drills with the RAF helicopter and the RNLI, providing invaluable training on how to rescue sea kayakers in perilous situations. He fondly said, “Just imagine the exhilaration as participants experienced the powerful downdraft of a rescue helicopter while out on the water!” He tells me how sad it is that such things are no longer possible due to current feelings on risk and safety.

As Nigel shared his stories, I couldn’t help but chuckle at some comical mishaps that unfolded during that first gathering. One particularly amusing tale involved the adventurous Howard Jeffs, who attempted to recreate the thrill of night paddling in a darkened room. The result? Well, let’s say it generated more laughter than actual paddling skills! And then there’s the late legendary Derick Hutchinson, who gave a captivating lecture on his awe-inspiring North Sea crossing. However, fate had an unexpected twist in store for him, as his car was stolen along with the slides crucial to his presentation on his way to the event. Undeterred, Derrick relied solely on his memory and delivered an unforgettable talk, showcasing his resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

Growing stronger
Time may pass, but some things have that timeless charm. Changes were made to the original format in the early 90s, but it still bears a striking resemblance to the symposium we know and love today. The Anglesey Sea Kayak Symposium grows stronger each year, drawing paddlers from far and wide to celebrate their shared passion for the sport.

It serves as a testament to the vision and dedication of Nigel, who has tirelessly championed this gathering of sea kayakers for decades. As the event continues to make its mark on the kayaking community, it carries forward the legacy of adventure, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of exploration that defines the world of sea kayaking.

Through the years, the symposium has fostered a community of passionate sea kayak coaches and enthusiasts, thanks to the incredible vision and guidance of Nigel. The legacy he has built continues to inspire and nurture a new generation of kayakers, ensuring that the spirit of adventure and camaraderie will thrive for years to come.

Anglesey is the ultimate playground for sea kayaking enthusiasts. As you immerse yourself in the dynamic waters and breathtaking coastline adorned with caves, majestic arches, gullies, and sandy beaches, you’ll quickly understand why this location is a haven for adventure seekers. Its strategic position jutting out into the Irish Sea grants Anglesey significant tidal ranges and fast-flowing currents, making it a paradise for those seeking the thrill of waves, tide races, and overfalls.

Among the crowd of sea kayakers who flock to Anglesey, the brave are drawn to iconic locations like the awe-inspiring North and South Stack, Rhoscolyn, and the famed Penrhyn Mawr with its exhilarating features, including the chicken shoot, middle race, and outer race. I still hold dear the cherished memories of riding the front wave of the outer South Stack Race, accompanied by a duo of curious porpoises. The rocky coastline is a constant bustling hub of activity, where inquisitive seals accustomed to sea kayakers often take an interest in the bow and stern toggles, and noisy sea birds add a symphony of sounds.

World-class kayak trips
Anglesey doesn’t stop at thrilling natural wonders. It also boasts world-class kayak trips that, weather permitting, are expertly guided during the symposium. From The Stacks to The Skerries, Porth Wen Brickworks, and Menai Straits, with its unique coastline formed by a major fault line, there are endless opportunities for exploration. The Menai Straits, a narrow stretch of shallow tidal water that separates Anglesey from mainland Gwynedd, offers a riveting experience for sea kayakers looking to develop and hone moving water skills on features like the Swellies.

If you’re familiar with Nigel Dennis, you know that he lives by the mantra of keeping plans fluid and dynamic. This philosophy is deeply ingrained in the event’s program, which frequently adapts to fulfil the desires and needs of attendees and make the most of prevailing conditions. Having been involved in over 20 iterations of the symposium myself, I can confidently dispel the misconception that it’s a gung-ho chest-thumping competition.

While it caters to intermediate to advanced paddlers, it is an incredibly nurturing and welcoming event. Its international nature is a testament to its inclusivity, with coaches, leaders, and participants from over 15 countries, many of whom are returning attendees. The event has helped many paddlers get started by generating support for expeditions, and the opportunity to network internationally is second to none.

Preferences and goals
The workshops at the symposium cater to a wide range of preferences and goals. For those seeking to push their limits, there are exhilarating options like the advanced Tide Races, often overseen by the renowned Keirron Tastagh from Adventurous Experiences in the Isle of Man, known for his no-nonsense approach, which we have come to know and love. On the other hand, workshops such as various day trips, introduction to moving water, incident management, and kayak repair provide opportunities for learning and growth at a more relaxed pace.

From sea kayaks, a different kind of foraging session is led by the quietly spoken and observant Ronny Riise of God Tur in Norway. An exuberant Marc Alcober from Palamos added games and excitement to the occasion with Greenland rolling sessions. Over the years female participants in the sport has increased, which is great to see. The Symposium has seen some leading female coaches such as, Fiona Whitehead, Trys Morris, Fiona Corfe, Eila Wilkinson, to mention a few.
The symposium owes a great deal of its success to the dedicated team of experienced guides and coaches, past and present, numbering almost 35 this year, who contribute their expertise and passion to create a memorable experience for all participants.

Paddlers Return pub
When it’s time to unwind and recount the day’s adventures, the quaint and welcoming Paddlers Return pub becomes the heart of socialising. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a symphony of diverse accents—Dutch, Norwegian, Icelandic, Danish, Swedish, Italian, French, Estonian, Latvian, Swiss, American, Canadian, and even, in the past, Australian and Japanese.

As the symposium unfolds, the lively ambience of the packed pub on the initial nights gradually settles down, giving way to a sense of camaraderie and sharing fatigue after immersive daily paddles. A dedicated group of Icelanders was constantly present in past editions of the symposium. Their cultural presence was celebrated when they organised an Icelandic night, adorning the venue with flags and serving traditional delicacies and beverages. While the reviews on the food were mixed, the experience proved to be a delightful cultural immersion for everyone involved.

Among the devoted sea kayakers, two individuals stand out with an astonishing record of attending every single symposium since its inception over forty years ago: Rick Carrick-Smith and Nigel Dennis himself. Rick’s unwavering dedication and assistance in various capacities exemplify the symposium’s community spirit and mutual support.

A lasting impact
As participants gather year after year at the symposium, they contribute to an evolving tapestry of shared experiences, personal growth, and a deep appreciation for the wonders of sea kayaking. It is a celebration of the human spirit, bringing together like-minded individuals from all walks of life and providing endless opportunities for learning, self-discovery, and the forging of lifelong friendships. The Anglesey Symposium stands as a testament to the enduring power of sport, human connection, and the pursuit of adventure, leaving a lasting impact on all who are privileged to be part of this extraordinary event.