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A planed journey that was not taken. A long fair tide paddle involving a sheltered open Sea crossing.

HWLB	20:07 bst 31 May1997
Embark	10:30
Egress	17:00
Distance	32 km
Wind
Sea

This journey can be started either from Deganwy (GR776792) on the east bank of the River Conwy or from the Beacons (GR774792) on the west bank. Both offer good parking and a reasonable access to the water at all tide levels over a steep and stony bank. The river flow at this part of the tide will be about 3 knots.

The plan was to follow the buoyed channel for about 6km, all the way to the Fairway Buoy which is approximately in line with the foot bridge next to the Penmaenmawr 'Little Chief'. This should be an easy paddle following the ebb flow from the Conwy estuary. From the Fairway Buoy take and record a baring for the right hand end of Puffin Island. The flow in Conwy Bay I assumed to be light and generally in this direction so only compensate for any wind. After approximately 7km, round the NW corner of the Island, seals are often spotted here. Follow the seaward side of the island along steep and uninviting cliffs. Lunch at the SE end of the island or if the flow in the striates is reasonable on the slipway at Trwyn-du.

Slack water should approximately coincide with low water at Liverpool bar, say 14:00. At this time proceed through the striates until a gap in the spit is found that allows you to return to the NW end of the island. At the NW end of the island return on the corresponding baring taken for the outward leg. Avoid 'cutting the corner' back to the egress until you are confident that the sand banks of the buoyed channel are well covered. Continue up the buoyed channel, making the most of the flow. Look out for other boats as this is a busy route.

Variations

Camp overnight at the north end of Red Wharf Bay GR532818. Beware that the camp site operates a 'Families Only' policy so book in advance and negotiate.

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