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Thursday, August 5, 2010

Tides, winds & sandbars

The afternoon was waning as we drove through the tree lined streets leading into Palmetto Bluffs. The outfitter store was about to close as we arrived but there was still time to get set up for a short paddle before sunset. The tide had just turned and was rushing its way inland.  Out goal was to paddle to the sandbar (with the many other Blufftonians) on this balmy afternoon. It had been months since our last outing due to both of us recovering from surgeries and our excitement overflowed. The paddling was easy as we started out in the protected area of the dock and we slowed to talk with a family who's boat ran aground and were waiting for the tide to bring in a few more inches of water.

As we moved out into the main channel, the true nature of the river notified us of it's presence with a quick flowing tide and a stiff breeze in our faces. I started pulling hard on the paddles and headed for a point of land, feeling exhilarated by the movement of the kayak through the water. As I slid the boat into the shallows, I turned to see my companion struggling against the tide and wind. I paddled back to provide assistance and guidance, but just ended up giving more hints than she could grasp and still battle the elements. Slowly we worked our way across the channel to the far shoreline and a little protection from the wind.

Eventually, we reached the sandbar with all the boats, families, beach chairs and coolers. I pulled the kayaks several lengths onto the sandbar, knowing the tide would begin to make it's way over the exposed sand. We shed the PFD's and strolled down the sandbar enjoying the festive atmosphere. We only walked a short distance before turning back toward the kayaks. Already the water had risen to the back ends of the boats so we just sat on one of the kayaks talking and watching the people. Figuring it was getting time to head back we turned to find the other kayak drifting away with the tide. I waded out in nearly waist deep water to retrieve it and towed it back to shore. The paddle back to the dock was a completely different experience with the tide and wind at out backs. What took us nearly 45 minutes to paddle out, now pushed us easily back home. We were nearly at the dock and I turned to find my companion heading further up the river. When we caught up with each other, I asked where she was heading and she thought the dock was much further away  because it had taken so little time to get back.

We docked, cleaned up the boats and sat up on the bluff to enjoy the fading light as the sun dipped to the horizon. Another perfect day on the water and a new beginning for us after the recoveries from the medical problems.




(Pictures courtesy of Matt Richardson of Low Country Unfiltered.)

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1 comment:

  1. Looks and sounds like a small slice of heaven - thanks for sharing.

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