The Sea-paddler’s Tale
Set in 1970, ‘The Sea-paddlers Tale’ tells the true story of how, against all the odds and the accepted norms of the canoeing establishment, a young man gave up his job, built an Eskimo kayak and set out to fulfil a personal dream of making the first kayak circumnavigation of mainland Britain.
Despite high level boat-handling skills, his early plans exposed a naivety concerning the numerous difficulties that required him to treat every day as an exercise in practical problem solving. Life-threatening battles with the sea were sometimes dwarfed by those on land in finding somewhere to sleep and eat on a budget.
There were moments of humour bordering the absurd, but more memorably, of extreme adventure and high drama, not least being robbed; spending a night astride a buoy and watching his kayak drift off on the tide. Time and again, when all seemed hopeless, he found people that were prepared to help him so that he was able to continue. Anyone who has a taste for adventure, laced with grit, determination and resilience will find this a compulsive read.
Colin Skeath has given us his review
The Sea Paddlers Tale documents one of the most ground breaking and audacious kayak journeys ever undertaken. The unsupported circumnavigation of England, Wales and part of Scotland in 1970 by a young Geoff Hunter in his hand-built kayak is one of the most notable feats of its kind. What makes his journey so impressive, apart from paddling where no one had paddled before, is Geoff’s indominable spirit in the face of numerous and dangerous mishaps.
Yet without Bill Taylors skilful writing, bringing Geoff’s original notes to life, this is a story that would have been lost to time. Reading it, you are left speechless at Geoff’s naivety in his planning and equipment, and gripped as at times he fights for survival. Captivating from start to finish; detailed yet easy to read, this book is for anyone, not just people with an interest in paddle sport. The Sea Paddlers Tale deserves its place amongst the very best adventure stories.
£12.99
