The Needles - Sunday 5th September 2010

Just three of us joined John B for an improvised trip to the Needles last Sunday

We left Keyhaven under a dull and cloudy sky. On entering the Solent we initially encountered some playful chop around Hurst Castle as the South Easterly pushed against the current.


We entered the main flow and commenced our ferry glide toward the Needles,
the GPS recorded a speed of 7 knots... sideways!

Protected from the wind we enjoyed a smooth crossing that was interupted only by the turbulence and boils produced by the confused current that rushed to exit the narrow straights between Hurst and the Needles - which were now approaching fast!


As we rounded the Needles we encountered the full force of the South Easterly.

We had planned to head on to Freshwater Bay but were thwarted by the strong wind. After battling for twenty minutes we realised that we were on a 'hiding to nothing' and settled for an early lunch stop at Scratchell's Bay; a steep pebbled beach beneath towering chalk cliffs.

We sat on the sheltered beach, basking in glorious sunshine. We ate our lunch and enjoyed the view.

Spot the sea kayak!

After seal launching down the steep pebbled beach we entered the placid water of the bay before heading out into more turbulent waters and through the Needles.

On our return we opted for the scenic route; hugging the coast and enjoying the varied scenery of Alum Bay, Totland Bay and Colwell Bay before pausing at Fort Victoria for an ice cream (Courtesy of JB), after which we rode the wind waves for a quick crossing back to Keyhaven.