Snape Maltings to Orford
Sunday 13th December 2009
Our first paddling experience with the club (or even with other people!) started with a meet and greet at 9am sharp, in the car park of Snape Maltings having been shown where to park by the chief car park controller in a fluorescent coat. With a quick shuffle of cars to the finish location, we assembled the flotilla just downstream of the Maltings buildings. Dave the trip leader gave us a quick introduction to the group, and we were underway. Entry to the Alde was gained by sliding down the flood defence bank, through some reeds, and into the river.
The morning started grey and damp, and didn’t look promising, although spirits were high, and we were happy to mingle within the group and get to know some new faces. As we rounded the corner at Iken church, the chill began to set in to our hands, which had “apparently waterproof” gloves on. However, we realised, looking around, no one else had gloves on- and the answer to cold and numb hands was in fact fleece lined pogies! After borrowing a few paddles with pogies attached, we realised these paddle mitts were our next essential investment.
After some hard paddling against the wind on the Long Reach, we reached a good lunch spot on the marshes, keenly observed by our more experienced paddling comrades. Some of the male members of the group disappeared out of sight for a few minutes apiece, so a gents toilet must have been just around the corner?! The biting wind made for a quick lunch, as we all wanted to get paddling again to keep warm. This next section was hard paddling against the wind, and was quite choppy, so a serious look appeared on everyone’s faces as it took all of our concentration to keep upright. Once we turned the corner at Aldeburgh the banter started up again as we found calmer waters.
The final leg of the trip flew past, as we took in the sights of the Martello Tower and Orford Ness. This was a spectacular sight from the river, as much of the radar equipment and buildings were still visible. We will definitely have to revisit the island. Before we knew it, we had reached Orford Quay, and were standing on the side saying our farewells in the first sunshine of the day. This was a great first trip with the club, and we are very grateful to have been invited. We had a really good time getting to know our fellow paddlers, and felt very welcome.