Carlingford Lough SUP Adventure
Omeath
Carlingford Lough is known for strong tidal flows so it was important to get the timing right for this adventure. High tide at Warrenpoint, which sits at the western end of the lough, was at 14.00 so that seemed a good time to set off from Omeath, thereby ensuring I would be assisted by the outgoing tide for most of my journey. The trip from Omeath to Warrenpoint, over the mouth of the River Newry, was a challenge due to strong gusting winds channelling down the river. I found myself paddling solely on my right-hand side to push back against the wind and the outflowing river, and I could feel the strain on the left-hand side of my lower back.
I was happy to reach Warrenpoint and call ashore for a cappuccino at the wonderful Whistledown Hotel.
I left Warrenpoint at 15.00, knowing that I needed to be at Greencastle by 19.00 at the latest. The next section took me over to Killowen. I chose to cut straight across rather than hugging the coastline, although I was exposed to some more wind and waves. It was tough to follow the correct trajectory as the wind was trying to take me off course. More paddling on my right-hand side only. More pain in my left lower back!
The following leg, along the coast from Killowen, was certainly the easiest of the day - flat water and a gentle tailwind.
Sadly, the tailwind didn't last. As I entered the final bay before Greencastle, it turned unexpectedly. I was now paddling into the wind and through shallow waters and fields of seaweed. I was able to navigate around most of the islands of seaweed but I found myself smack bang in the middle on two occasions. Once I had to get off my board and walk through a particularly shallow area. It was slow progress, but the beautiful hills and mountains surrounding me were suitable compensation.
Pressing on, I was delighted to come ashore at the beach just before the Greencastle ferry terminal, for a rest and some food and water.
I was back on the water just before 19.00 and met up with Francie and Kathleen ready to cross over the mouth of Carlingford Lough to Greenore. Low tide was predicted for 19.47 and it was essential to do this crossing around low water to avoid strong tidal currents.
I think we timed it perfectly, although the crossing was choppy. The wind was now coming from my left, so more paddling on the right was required! More back pain! Type 2 fun for sure.
It was only after we got off the water, just before 20.00, that we spotted Finn, Greenore's resident dolphin. A passer-by excitedly informed us that Finn had been swimming alongside us as we came into shore. We were too busy looking ahead to spot him (note to self - remember to look left and right as well as straight ahead!). Still, my exhilaration at seeing a real-life dolphin helped me to forget my sore back for a moment or two.
It was an epic one-day adventure on a spectacular lough, and it was lovely to meet and paddle with my two SUP friends as the day drew to a close. I experienced very mixed conditions during my 16 kilometres on the water. I was tired. My back was aching. I was ready for a glass of wine and a long, hot shower.
* If you are intending to do this paddle on Carlingford Lough, it is essential to have the correct equipment and to understand the tides and the wind forecast. You should have a number of exit points or alternative plans in case you run into trouble. Please ask for advice if you're not sure.
John McFadzean
