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SETTING foot on Hobie Beach was a breath of fresh air as the weather was hot and humid – the perfect time for sea kayaking.
Anika de Beer and I were brave enough to tackle the waves and approach our adventure with enthusiasm. It was our first time kayaking.
Before getting into the kayaks, our Pro Dive instructor, Dennis Guri, gave us some basic instructions on how to paddle and manoeuvre efficiently, especially since we were beginners.
The morning was peaceful and relaxing and the ocean remained calm as we quickly jumped onto our kayaks.
We were paddling very slowly to enjoy the ocean and our surroundings. As we were kayaking deeper into the ocean, Guri gave further instructions – how to turn left, right and reverse the kayak.
My fear while being on the kayak was, “What if I suddenly flip over and my head disappears under the water?”
Guri immediately reassured me that the kayaks are very sturdy and it is near impossible to flip over.
I appreciated Pro Dive’s style of guiding. Guri had a lot of information to share, but the tour was very casual. He let us spread out and move at our own pace.
I felt that we were so lucky to be kayaking on this day. I was surrounded by only the sea and I felt as though I was absorbing all its great energy.
Feeling the sun on my skin was a wonderful feeling – sometimes I would just stop paddling to enjoy the quietness of my surroundings.
We were hoping to see some dolphins, but as beginners we refrained from going deeper into the ocean.
However, after the restful moments out on the ocean, it was time to return to the shore.
Guri explained the difficulties returning – the nose of the kayak had to remain straight as the waves could cause the kayaks to tip over.
Unfortunately, my kayak had a mind of its own and I tipped over as soon as the first wave hit the kayak. And to top it all off, our kayaks collided and before I could even scream, I was in the ocean.
Sea kayaking is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the ocean and no prior experience is required.
Pro Dive offers a wide range of underwater programmes – from beginner to instructor courses. All the courses are conducted by highly qualified instructors.
The trip starts from Hobie Beach where the guide will provide a short briefing prior to the guided excursion.
- Duration: An hour-and-a-half
to two hours
- Single or double kayaks are available
- Life jackets will be provided
WHAT TO BRING:
- Swimming costumes or beach clothing e.g. board shorts, protection from the sun (sunblock/hat/rashvest/ t-shirt), cameras are required to remain in a waterproof pouch, towel.
PRICE: Single Kayak (R295) and
Double Kayak (R395).
- To book a guided kayak adventure, contact Pro Dive’s offices at 041 581 1144 or dive@prodive.co.za.
