German Wadden Islands

Last year we did join the Saltz Wasser Union. They organized a one-week camp together with the Dutch instructors.
The first week we did spend time inland, the weather was terrible with storms and gales. Our plan to start at the Eemshaven and go East to Spiekeroog did not work. Instead we drove to the Grosses Mer. We spend a few days over here. A nice cottage was offered to us for cooking, while the waters made excellent daytrips.

nueharlingersiel
We all gathered in Nueharlingersiel and soon we were on the way to Spiekeroog. This tiny Island has a superb camping spot. Close to the beach. We were the only group that was not mixed with the Germans. But after the "office hours" at sea, we could practice our German tongue. Big Fun!
everybody happy

German approach
During the week we visited other Islands like; Wangerooge, Langeoog and Baltrum. We have been focusing on trip planning and leadership. And at the same time enjoy the cold, rainy weather. Some groups had to go ashore, while others did have a good time in big waves.
Lianna (my sister)was going home with the diploma Zeevaardigheid(BCU4*). So congratulations.

4 Star of the day
While all the people went home after the Camp, we still had another week of exploring the German waters.
We went as far as Norderney and had a good time. We went home with a nice feeling. Three weeks paddling in Germany.
Spass in Spiekeroog! One day I will return!

Those were the days.

Senegal photo's from Kor

Last week Kor, Marlies and Robbert left for Africa. They will paddle in Senegal and Gambia for four weeks, while Kor will stay even longer to explore the coastline a little further. They will take there folding kayaks and as always they will have a good time. A good start of 2008!

Two years ago I paddled with Kor in ten days from the Belgian border (Eijsden) to the north of Holland (Groningen).
We were talking about it one day…. and the other day we went off.
486 km and although the days were short in November we did make it. We passed by the Maas, IJssel and the IJsselmeer. And at the end we were stinking like…..I don't know, but we drive home with all the windows open.

old and new

Last year I had to replace some gear. My old anorak was more white than red from the seasalt. Now I bought myself a heavy duty model.
My tent, a Vango MicroOdessey had to retire. He survived 15 years of hard work. Now I have a TNF Tadpole…wonder if he will also last that long. Latest thing to renew was a new bag for the towing line…. In 2007 I also lost two paddles in the surf: they had fractures and could not be used anymore. My compass and my knife did disappear in the waves....
So 2008 here I come!

camping in the house