Exploring the Ebb and Flow: A Deep Dive into How Tides Work

Paddle boarding with Dogs - (DFD) Dog Flotation Device

When the temperature drops and winter blankets the landscape, many outdoor enthusiasts tuck away their paddle boards until warmer seasons return. However, for those seeking adventure and year-round enjoyment, winter paddle boarding offers a unique and exhilarating experience. Picture yourself gliding across serene icy waters, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes – it's an experience like no other. But before you embark on your winter paddle boarding escapade, it's essential to ensure you have the right gear to keep you safe, warm, and comfortable. Here's a rundown of the gear essentials you'll need for a successful winter paddle boarding trip.

Afternoon sup in Burnham Overy Staithe

May 12th and a nice paddle out to Scolt head Island with friends, the Meldrum family all the way from Scotland and my wingman'Betty' riding shotgun as always. High tide was at 17:20 and smallish in size at 7.8 m. After jumping in we headed west towards the river Burn and then turned North out to the Island. 'Betty' was enjoying herself walking up and down the board keeping an eye on the oyster catchers flying overhead as the are always very vocal sea bird. Once we got into Norton Creek the wind had increased very slightly from the North East which meant we had to work a bit harder to get to the Island. As we approached the island 'Betty' hoped off the front of the board, as she does and had a quick paddle before we all unleashed and carried the boards up to the high water mark. There was only one other family out on the island enjoying a picnic, so we almost had the island to ourselves. We then all headed over to the North side of Scolt head for a walk in the surf and to take in the North Norfolk sea air. After getting back on the boards we all set off in an easterly direction passing close to the new house boat moored on the beach near Gun Hill, which looks like it came straight out of the film 'Captain Phillips. With the wind on our backs and a small amount of outgoing tide against us it was a easy paddle back to the harbour for a well deserved Beer at the Hero Inn . Another great day out on the water with friends and 'Betty Boo' here in Burnham Overy. Happy days :-)

Started the day with an amazing early morning Paddle out to the Island here in Burnham Overy Staithe. Conditions were perfect with a large spring tide 0f 8.7 m and not a drop of wind! I was a bit late in getting up due to family staying over for Easter and having a beer or two the night before :-) Decided to catch the outgoing tide down the main channel and then make my way back using the river Burn. Spotted loads of pairs of Oyster catchers which are one of my favorite marsh birds and was lucky enough to spot 2 Roe dear that had been cut off by the large spring tide. I didn't see another person out on the water and just a few runners and walkers on the coastal path as I made my way back down the river Burn. I hardly had to paddle as I had planed my rout to go with the tide and spent most of the journey drinking coffee which I had packed in my small back pack.....roll on the summer :-)