My SUP Stories

The story of my life: Always having to embrace Plan B. See, I love devising SUP adventures. But no matter how meticulously I plan, I always find myself embarking on a different journey altogether.

Like my recent SUP training course in Plymouth. I must confess that my grasp of UK geography is somewhat shameful. I managed to mix up Devon and Dorset. Suddenly, the distance from London doubled before my eyes. Just when I thought fate had dealt its final blow, the train drivers’ union announced a strike. I decided to conquer the distance by coach.

There were bewildered looks from my friends when I announced my choice of transportation – a humble bus from London to Plymouth. I understood their skepticism when on the day, I finally arrived in Plymouth seven hours after stepping on the coach in Victoria. After enduring cramped quarters and two obligatory service station stops. The Divine Comedy’s “Take the National Express when your life’s in a mess” echoed in my mind. Stay tuned for my upcoming masterpiece: “Top Tips for Coach Travel.”

The paddling in Plymouth more than made up for any inconvenience endured. The moment I arrived at Royal William Yard, it was as if I had stepped onto a film set. Once a bustling naval victualling depot, it has been transformed into a haven of trendy culture, delectable food and of course, SUP adventures. What a unique waterfront location for South West SUP. As an inland paddler, the coastal vistas stretching across Plymouth Sound and reaching towards Cornwall left me speechless.

The SWSUP social paddle on Friday evening was a treat. All the necessary gear provided at a wallet-friendly price of £15. As if on cue, Devon unveiled its finest weather on Saturday and Sunday, with sunshine that made it feel like a holiday abroad. Factor 50, anyone? It was the perfect backdrop for the WSA course. We had the whole weekend to explore the stunning local waters, see my list below.

Life loves to steer me onto a different journey than planned. But I’ve discovered that it’s the detours that make the tale unforgettable. So, I’m fully embracing Plan B.

Weird & wonderful

• Drake’s Island: A pocket-sized island fortress steeped in history, boasting volcanic tuff, lava and Devonian marine limestone. We are allowed to explore up to the high water line on this privately owned gem.
• Firestone Bay’s Tidal Swimming Pool: Nature’s very own infinity pool, replenished with fresh sea water as the tide joins the party. Conveniently accessible from Royal William Yard, it’s a must-visit spot. I had a quick dip.
• Royal William Yard Marina: Seek refuge in this sheltered marina, where calm waters await even on windier days. Enjoy the visual feast of historic architecture, stylish boats and a lively waterfront atmosphere.

Need to know

• Waterway: Plymouth Sound (locally just The Sound) is a deep inlet in the English Channel in Plymouth, England. Freshwater enters the Sound in the northwest from the River Tamar and the northeast from the River Plym.
• Entry: South West SUP, Firestone Arch, Royal William Yard, Plymouth PL1 3RP
• Exit: South West SUP, Firestone Arch, Royal William Yard, Plymouth PL1 3RP
• Distance: Various
• More details: Set your sights on the Royal Navy’s dapper website for a tidal wave of information – tides, shipping movements, sunrise & sunset.

If you liked this story, check out my coastal adventure in Wales – SUP Route: Joy of Guided Tour.

Let’s make some waves! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.