A Kayaking Adventure with Gairloch and Loch Ewe Action Forum – Guided by Cory
There’s something magical about paddling on Scotland’s rugged west coast, and for the team at Gairloch and Loch Ewe Action Forum, a guided kayaking day with Cory proved to be an unforgettable experience. From the calm waters of Loch Ewe to the stunning scenery that surrounds Gairloch, the group took to the sea for a day of adventure, laughter, and learning.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to experience kayaking in one of Scotland’s most beautiful coastal locations, join us as we relive the highlights of the day, the skills learned, the fun had, and the breathtaking sights encountered along the way.
Setting Off – Meeting the Team & Preparing for the Paddle
The day started with excitement as the Gairloch and Loch Ewe Action Forum team gathered on the shoreline, eager to get out on the water. The weather was perfect for kayaking—a light breeze, calm conditions, and just enough cloud cover to keep the sun from getting too hot.
Cory, an experienced kayak guide and outdoor instructor, gave a safety briefing to ensure everyone felt comfortable before launching. The session covered:
✔️ Kayak setup – Adjusting seats, footrests, and spray decks
✔️ Paddling technique – How to paddle efficiently and avoid fatigue
✔️ Safety basics – Capsize drills, staying together, and reading the water
✔️ What to expect – The planned route and highlights along the way
With everyone kitted up in buoyancy aids, a final check was made, and then it was time to launch into the water. One by one, the team eased their kayaks into the loch, and the adventure began!
Paddling Through Stunning Scenery
As the group left the shore behind, Gairloch and Loch Ewe revealed their beauty. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the towering mountains and wild, untouched coastline. Paddling out, the team could see the rugged cliffs, tiny islands, and sweeping beaches that make this area such a special place for outdoor adventures.
The Magic of Gairloch
Gairloch is a deep sea loch, famous for its wartime history and stunning natural beauty. As the team paddled along, Cory shared fascinating insights about the area:
• 🌊 A Strategic Wartime Location – During World War II, Loch Ewe was a key naval anchorage, protecting Allied convoys heading to Russia.
• 🦭 Wildlife Haven – The loch is home to seals, otters, and seabirds, with occasional sightings of porpoises and even dolphins!
• 🏞️ Geological Wonders – The rugged landscape around the loch is shaped by ancient volcanic activity and glacial erosion, creating a dramatic backdrop.
Kayaking Skills and Challenges
As the team gained confidence on the water, Cory introduced some fun skills challenges to help improve their paddling techniques.
🏄♂️ Balance & Core Control – Learning how to edge the kayak for better stability in small waves.
💨 Speed & Efficiency – Using the correct paddle stroke to glide effortlessly through the water.
🔄 Turning & Maneuvering – Practicing sweep strokes and bracing to turn smoothly without losing momentum.
Some playful races broke out as members of the team tested their newfound speed and skills, and there were plenty of laughs as a few unexpected splashes cooled everyone down!
Wildlife Encounters & Close-Up Nature Experiences
One of the most exciting parts of the day was spotting wildlife up close. The west coast of Scotland is renowned for its marine biodiversity, and the team was lucky to see:
🦭 Seals – Curious grey seals popped their heads up, watching the kayakers with interest.
🦅 Sea Eagles – A majestic white-tailed eagle soared overhead, scanning the water for fish.
🐟 Jellyfish & Shoals of Fish – The clear waters of the loch revealed moon jellyfish drifting below and shimmering shoals of fish darting between the seaweed.
For many, this was the highlight of the trip—being so close to nature, moving silently through the water, and feeling truly connected to the wild landscape.
Snack Break on a Remote Beach
After a couple of hours of paddling, the team landed on a secluded beach, a perfect spot for a break.
🏝️ Golden sand and stunning views made it the ideal place to stretch, chat, and enjoy a well-earned rest.
☕ Tea and snacks were shared as Cory told stories about previous kayaking adventures and local legends.
🌊 Some brave team members took a quick swim, cooling off in the refreshing sea water!
This midpoint stop was a great reminder of why sea kayaking is so special—it’s not just about the paddling but also about taking time to soak in the surroundings and appreciate the beauty of nature.
The Return Journey – Confidence and Camaraderie
With renewed energy, the team launched back into the water, heading back towards the starting point. By now, everyone was paddling with confidence, moving efficiently through the water and working together as a group.
The camaraderie and teamwork built throughout the day were evident, with paddlers encouraging each other, sharing tips, and laughing as they navigated the final stretch back to shore.
As they approached the beach, Cory set a final challenge—one last sprint to the finish! With tired arms but big smiles, the team gave it their all, finishing the adventure with a burst of energy.
Reflections on an Amazing Day Sea kayaking Gairloch
Back on dry land, the Gairloch and Loch Ewe Action Forum team reflected on an incredible day of paddling.
🏆 New skills learned – From better paddle strokes to improved confidence on the water.
🌊 A deeper appreciation of the landscape – Seeing Loch Ewe from the water gave a whole new perspective.
😂 Plenty of laughs and great memories – The mix of adventure and fun made this a day to remember!
For many, it was their first real experience of sea kayaking, and thanks to Cory’s expert guidance, everyone came away feeling accomplished, inspired, and eager for the next adventure.
Check out Highland Experiences pages for the tours we offer in the Highlands.