Paddle Cornwall

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Reviews

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  Julia Lefley

  We had a voucher that was a gift from 2020 which, thanks to Covid, we hadn’t been able to use. I contacted Mark to ask if he would extend it and he was really understanding and accommodating, despite having since moved away from offering the Cornish excursions. We finally went out with Mark in August 2022. Communication in advance of our trip was great and Mark was already there waiting for us when we arrived at Mylor harbour. Mark had brought with him equipment to cover every eventuality which was really reassuring and instantly put us at ease. Mark was very patient and calm and shared his knowledge and tips in a way that was not at all patronising or demanding. We kayaked out to Falmouth with a short stop on a quiet beach on route. We talked all the way around with this perfect stranger and never felt awkward – Mark has some very interesting stories to tell! I did feel a bit anxious at times at the amount of traffic on the water in some of the busier parts, but Mark instantly took control and we immediately felt safe with such an experienced guide. This was such a fun experience and we are now hooked and can’t wait for another opportunity to go out. Thoroughly recommended!

  29-08-2022
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  Lyndsay Williams

  Claire and Olly were fantastic leaders. My 11 year old daughter and husband loved their kayaking. Would highly recommend and will definitely book again next holiday in Cornwall. Thanks for a great morning exploring.

  29-07-2022
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  Charlie Green

  We had the best time with Anna and Mark in The Isles of Scilly. Mark is a great guy and a great teacher. He’s patient, kind, considerate and funny. I felt totally safe, even on our last day when the wind speed increased and conditions were challenging. I loved the deserted beaches, the beautiful clear sea and the inquisitive seals. Anna and Mark helped us with our tents when we arrived and we had great meals together with lots of laughter. Thank you so much Mark Helen

  29-07-2022
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  Susan Attwood

  Would highly recommend trips with Mark Meardon and his associates. I've now been to 3 different locations: Cornwall, Arisaig, Scotland and Isles of Scilly. He chooses fun and interesting paddling routes every day. His attention to safety is excellent and allows me to just enjoy the day. I also appreciate his enthusiastic and effective teaching of paddling technique. There's always something new to learn and practice.

  29-07-2022
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  Susan Westaway

  I had the most wonderful 3 day sea kayaking course with Mark at the beginning of July in the Isles of Scilly. I am a complete beginner, never having kayaked at all before this holiday. It was hugely enjoyable, visiting glorious beaches on uninhabited islands and seeing seals and birdlife, jelly fish and amazing seaweeds from very close quarters. It was a really special experience. You could not wish for a better instructor than Mark. There were 6 in our group, which worked really well, and over the course of the 3 days we gradually tackled more challenging paddles, depending on the wind and the tides. Mark provided 1st class equipment for us all. I had complete confidence in him and felt completely safe at all times, and he managed to combine keeping an eye on us all with great encouragement for our sometimes curious manoeuvers, and all with great good humour. If any of us was having difficulty with anything, he was there to help in a flash! We had a couple of lovely evenings in the pub too, also arranged by Mark. Mark & Anna and their lovely dog Zeela helped us with our tents on arrival at the campsite, and also when we left, helping to transport our luggage to the quay, as the campsite trailer did not operate their service on Sundays. They could not have been more helpful - they really are a wonderful team! Our group plans to return when we can for another course with Mark.

  29-07-2022
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  Hayley Brown

  I joined the team for a 7 day roaming trip and it was a fantastic week. Mark and Anna are a great team, relaxed and professional, nothing was too much trouble ( including throwing together forgotten kit) and every aspect of the week was seamlessly put together for us. From the momemt we arrived until we left Mark and Anna ensured we all had a great week. We saw the best of the amazing islands, Mark’s knowledge and experience on the water meant every day we saw the best and he used his life time knowledge of the winds and tides so that we got a good paddle as well as some float with the tide times which meant we had time to really take in the scenery and energy to complete the 7 days in the water. Mark has a passion for teaching as well as guiding and gave us some tips on navigating and techniques on the boat as well as effortlessly guiding us and making sure everyone got the most from the trip. He was careful to make sure everyone’s needs were met and some days there were options to stop early or continue paddling. The Kayaks were modern and comfortable and Mark is professionally equipped with safety equipment. If you are thinking about joining a trip you won’t regret it and if you have any questions about the kayaking, or islands get in touch with the team.

  29-07-2022
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  Ann Pickering

  The trip exceeded all expectations. Mark is an expert kayaker with immense knowledge of the sport, the islands, tides and winds. I felt totally safe in his hands and learnt so much from him. The Isles of Scilly are beautiful and kayaking between them, exploring the rocks and uninhabited islands, was the perfect early summer holiday. The campsite was clean and tidy with great facilities, and right next to the beach.

  29-06-2022
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  JK House Training Centre

  Used these guys twice with different size parties and such an amazing experience both times, Mark is such a friendly fun person made the trip perfect!

  29-06-2022
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  Mike Cherry

  We had a fabulous adventure on Paddle Cornwall’s 4 day Island roaming trip in mid May that engaged us totally in the Scilly isles, both on the water and the islands. The clear and concise advice and information provided by Paddle Cornwall with regards to our paddling abilities, the itinerary of the days and what equipment and clothing to bring was very helpful and ensured that we were adequately prepared and were relaxed from the off. The Dagger kayaks and all provided equipment were excellent, and Mark provided good tips on modifications and things to be aware of when setting up and packing kayaks. It was great to have a relaxed welcome from Mark and Anna on our arrival at St Martins, which set the tone for the rest of the trip. Mark presented a thorough, flexible plan for each day that related to weather and sea conditions and the ability of the group. He was brilliant at communicating with group as we went along, keeping an eye on our energy levels and ensuring we had regular stops and refreshments . He gave us paddling tuition and advice on the go and provided us with the opportunity to challenge our abilities ,which will be very valuable for future paddles. We were a little unsure about paddling and camping with a group of people we did not know. However, Mark acted as a catalyst to connect with each other as a ‘team’, which made the experience unique and cohesive. Ultimately, we would have missed a huge amount if we had not paddled with Mark as he gave the group the confidence to explore unknown waters and islands. We had the unique opportunity to land on uninhabited islands and explore the local flora, fauna and archaeological sights. Extensive paddling through the Eastern Isles gave us a wonderful close up view of sea birds and seal colonies. Camping on the islands meant we supported the local economy, buying food from road side shacks and eating in local pubs. We would recommend that you book now for a unique and memorable experience Mike & Jannie Cherry

  29-06-2022
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  dorrien peters

  We spent a day with Mark paddling from Mylor Harbour to Falmouth and return. We started with a bit of flat water (with added kit briefing, skills coaching, local knowledge and some fun games). Mark had clearly got the measure of us and suggested a change of plan that took us along the coast for more interest and challenge. It was a well judged call and it really made for an excellent day out that we enjoyed immensely, improving our skills and confidence along the way. We explored Falmouth harbour and returned to Mylor for more skills training including towing and capsize drills. Mark's relaxed but confident approach to leading a group really made the difference.

  29-05-2022