What was predicted to be a cold, wet, and windy weekend turned into one filled with adventure and laughter!
UHI Paddlesports Club – Sea Kayaking Expedition
What was predicted to be a cold, wet, and windy weekend turned into one filled with adventure and laughter, though it certainly remained wet for the members of the UHI Paddlesports Club on their first club trip.
The club took to the waters of Moidart in their fleet of sea kayaks, treated at times to beautiful blue skies, followed by heavy rain, strong winds, and the occasional hailstorm. They truly experienced the full range of Scotland’s famously unpredictable weather.
The paddler
s set off from the shores of Kinlochmoidart, led by the club’s own sea kayak leaders, Ben, Kam, and Callum. Having planned the expedition from the outset, they ensured that everyone had an enjoyable and safe experience on the water. After a few hours of paddling, the group landed on sandy beaches overlooking Castle Tioram for lunch and a chance to explore, before deciding where to set up camp for the night.
The chosen spot was Love Heart Island, appropriately named for its shape. Upon landing, camp was set up and hot chocolates were made to keep spirits high. Tents were pitched, and deadwood was collected in preparation for a fire later that evening.
What followed was a serene evening of cooking, games, and gathering around the fire on the beach. As the weather closed in, the group retreated to their tarps and tents, attempting to sleep despite the wind bearing down on them.
Morning arrived, and the group groggily packed down their campsite, which had begun to feel like a home away from home, before repacking their kayaks and heading back onto the water. The wind continued to blow and rain came and went; however, once paddling began, the skies cleared, and the group enjoyed a smooth journey home.
The weekend concluded with a wet and tired drive back, followed by a well-earned stop at Fort William’s favourite student hangout, Wetherspoons, where everyone relaxed and celebrated a successful trip, the first of many more adventures to come.
The Importance of Getting Involved
Trips like this highlight just how valuable clubs and societies can be to student life. Joining a club such as UHI Paddlesports offers far more than just the activity itself; it provides opportunities to build friendships, develop new skills, and gain confidence in unfamiliar environments.
Being part of a group encourages teamwork and resilience, especially in challenging conditions like those faced on this expedition. It also creates a sense of belonging, helping students connect with others who share similar interests, whether they are experienced paddlers or complete beginners.
Beyond the physical and social benefits, getting involved in clubs allows students to take a break from academic pressures and experience something different. Whether it’s exploring remote parts of Scotland, learning to navigate the sea, or simply sharing stories around a campfire, these experiences often become some of the most memorable parts of university life.
For many, joining a club is the first step toward discovering new passions and building lasting connections, making it an essential and rewarding part of the student experience.