This is the last Supermoon of 2022, so let's meet up and have a great time together! All kayakers are welcome from all abilities and levels, including inflatables. Children, if in their own kayaks, must be under the direct supervision of their parent or carer. The group will help to watch everyone, but the only person responsible for your child, is you. Parents are encouraged to bring a short tow rope (3m) in case they have to tow their little one. We always recommend everyone wear a proper sea kayaking PFD (life jacket). If you capsize, you will not have time, or the light, to find your pfd. The plan is to meet at the slipway in front of Legend's, in Marsascala (St. Thomas Bay), in the water at 6pm. If you cannot make it at 6, don't worry, you can meet us. We will paddle, as a group, to the sea cave and tunnel, called Ghar Irsejjen, just a 2km paddle or so away. after we go through the tunnel (if safe enough, which we plan it will be), we head to Munxar area where we stayed last time to watch the moon rise. If all goes well, and no clouds or haze hinder our view, we should see the moon right after 8pm perhaps 15 to 20 minutes later. The moon is projected to rise at 8:02 on the pic below, the light blue line, 116.7 degrees using a compass. Once we get our fill, we paddle toward Jerma, for some extra exercise. Once we get there, regroup, and head home. Things to bring: Your kayak (rentals are not available) Paddle and spare First Aid Kit for sea kayaking and jellies Plenty of food, snacks, and water Suncream Bilge pump or sponge to evacuate water Spray skirts/decks PFD Headtorch Gloves Outdoor fairy lights Proper footwear, flip flops do not count as proper footwear for kayaking Camera and way to protect it Dry clothes to keep in your car for after If you have any questions, do reach out. Risks: 1. Many boaters may be present. We must stay together for safety and to stay HIGH VIS. 2. Slipways--very slippery and may have jellies present. 3. Boats, jetskis, and this is a partial NIGHT PADDLE. Headtorches and outdoor fairy lights are mandatory to attend. 4. Gloves are recommended and proper footwear. 6. Jellyfish: Bring a small jelly kit with bicarbonate of soda and an old credit card in your first aid kits if you plan to swim. 7. Fairy lights for your kayak (make sure to get outdoor) Headtorch--per Maltese law, vessels our size that are navigating at night must have, at least, a white headtorch on during movement. Safety tips: Stay close together. We shouldn't be too far from each other. If you are too far to receive help, how can we help? Keep whistles handy and wear high vis PFDs and clothes Take extreme caution on slips and rocks. Use proper footwear Again, stay well grouped up, within whistle shot of your neighbor Drink plenty of water, and proper clothes. Be smart, plan ahead. Do NOT PASS THE LEAD KAYAK ***Disclaimer of Events*** GOAK Malta is a ‘closed’ group and attending events/activities is voluntary by you as a member. Participation in any event within this group is at your own risk. By joining the events as a member, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless “Get Out and Kayak Malta”, its organizers, assistants, and any given member within the event/activity of GOAK Malta, from all claims or liability of every type (including court costs and legal fees) for injury or death to any person or for damage to property, loss of personal property or any other wrongful act arising out of or relating to your participation as a member. This agreement applies to you and any other person (as your guest) who may accompany you in these endeavours. By participating voluntarily in GOAK Malta, you understand that you are responsible for your own safety. Also, we record with several cameras and drones. By coming with us, you accept this and expect to be recorded and published on our socials and YouTube. If this doesn't sound like your cuppa tea, the sea is quite large ;-) You can sign a waiver form at https://www.getoutandkayakmalta.com/news-updates

September 3, 2022 in collaboration with Decathlon Malta and @getoutandkayakmalta, we've got a brand new event for you all! For the price of just €15, you get: A 2 hour tour with a qualified kayaking company A free goody bag on the day of the event from Decathlon Malta We will have 2 sessions on the day: 8:00-10:00 & 10:30-12:30 Meeting spot: Quarry wharf parking- https://maps.app.goo.gl/kxzB9oJA226Lw1cf6 So hurry to our store to register! You simply CANNOT miss it!!! All you have to do to enroll is go to the store and register at reception! See you on 3rd September, DON'T MISS IT! Visit Decathlon website here: https://www.facebook.com/decathlon.malta Visit their FB page here: https://www.facebook.com/decathlon.malta Their shop can be visited here: https://g.page/decathlonmalta?share

In collaboration with Moviment Graffitti, we will join the protest from our kayaks. For all information, including if you want to join, but don't have a kayak, read the information found here: https://fb.me/e/2Jabz05J7. ***RENTALS OF KAYAKS ARE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE PROTEST***

Article written by Sasha Vella from Lovin' Malta. Please click the following link to view the article in full. We posted it here, so we always have access to it. Thank you to all that contributed, and to Ms. Vella for writing it. Click the Headline Below:

Super Buck Moon Paddle and Fabio Fundraiser Trip Date: 13/07/2022 Meeting Time: 7:00pm. Please be punctual, as the moon waits for no one. Departure: Anywhere from St. Thomas Bay, Marsascala (ARRIVE EARLY TO PARK) Distance: There will be three options for this event, please read the entire post and associated maps. Duration: 3 to 4 hours depending on route Plan: We will park here, in the water and start paddling at 0715pm. Projected winds: Force 2. Projected swells: 0.3M projected Sunset: 8:19pm Moonrise: 8:34pm ***this is a fundraising event as well, please read in great detail*** Fabio Spiteri Last week became the first Maltese and 126th athlete ever in history to finish a Quintuple Ironman. His goal is to collect 100,000 euros to support animal shelters and feeders in Malta. We are asking for every participant to send directly to Fabio, using the below methods, to his cause. A minimum donation of 4.66 euros is requested to attend, please feel free to donate more. In the details or notes, please tell him you are from GOAK if using revolut, Paypal, or bank transfer. For SMS you cannot send details. We cannot issue receipts, so please send to him directly. Thank you! ***Please send us a pm on messenger with your proof of receipt so we can tally a count at the end of the event*** Please donate here: Public donations via: Revolut: +356 99816248 Paypal: rarmalta@gmail.com Paypal: https://paypal.me/RealAnimalRights?locale.x=en_US SMS donations € 4.66 | 50618075 € 6.99 | 50618923 € 11.65 | 50619260 Bank Transfer BOV IBAN : MT40VALL22013000000050010082877 Payment details write: GOAK Event Risks: 1. Many boaters may be present. We must stay together for safety and to stay HIGH VIS. 2. Slipways--very slippery and may have jellies present. 3. Boats, jetskis, and this is a partial NIGHT PADDLE. Headtorches and outdoor fairy lights are mandatory to attend. 4. Gloves are recommended and proper footwear. 6. Jellyfish: Bring a small jelly kit with bicarbonate of soda and an old credit card in your first aid kits if you plan to swim. 7. Fairy lights for your kayak (make sure to get outdoor) Headtorch--per Maltese law, vessels our size that are navigating at night must have, at least, a white headtorch on during movement. Safety tips: Stay close together. We shouldn't be too far from each other. If you are too far to receive help, how can we help? Keep whistles handy and wear high vis PFDs and clothes Take extreme caution on slips and rocks. Use proper footwear Again, stay well grouped up, within whistle shot of your neighbor Drink plenty of water, and proper clothes. Be smart, plan ahead. Do NOT PASS THE LEAD KAYAK The Plan: We will meet near Zion for briefing prior to departure. Option 1: We head towards Munxar Path, going under the arch, giving the point itself a wide berth to avoid the reef. We hope to find nice calm seas on the other side, to rest and watch the moonrise. We cannot guarantee that we can land in this location, but we hope to. If not, we can paddle around, raft up and connect boats, and watch the moonrise. Fairy lights and head torches, activate! Once we get our fill, we will head back to Zion area to drop off beginners, Option 2: Then head towards Hotel Jerma. If others want to depart back from this point, a subgroup will be formed here, then return to Zion. Option 3: for more advanced paddlers, we will continue on to Marsascala bay, to near Summer Nights, or so, then hug the coast toward Zonqor. From there, we raft up (regroup) and cross the bay towards Jerma, then hug the coast back to Zion. Please refer to the attached maps for distance and clarity on the routes. This is a night paddle, so extreme caution must be taken at all times to make sure everyone is present and accounted for. Outdoor lighting and head torches are required for this event to ensure visibility. Things to bring: Your own kayak, rentals are not available yet Paddle and spare PFD (required) Bilge Pump or another way to evacuate water Spray decks (or skirts) Paddle leashes should be used (just use a cheap rope if you need to) Whistles Plenty of water Snacks/food Plenty of food and snacks Dry bags Mosquito repellent Recording equipment and ways to protect it. Fairy lights for your kayak (make sure to get outdoor) Headtorch--per Maltese law, vessels our size that are navigating at night must have, at least, a white headtorch on during movement. ***Disclaimer of Events*** GOAK Malta is a ‘closed’ group and attending events/activities is voluntary by you as a member. Participation in any event within this group is at your own risk. By joining the events as a member, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless “Get Out and Kayak Malta”, its organizers, assistants, and any given member within the event/activity of GOAK Malta, from all claims or liability of every type (including court costs and legal fees) for injury or death to any person or for damage to property, loss of personal property or any other wrongful act arising out of or relating to your participation as a member. This agreement applies to you and any other person (as your guest) who may accompany you in these endeavours. By participating voluntarily in GOAK Malta, you understand that you are responsible for your own safety. Also, we record with several cameras and drones. By coming with us, you accept this and expect to be recorded and published on our socials and YouTube. If this doesn't sound like your cuppa tea, the sea is quite large ;-) You can sign a waiver form at https://www.getoutandkayakmalta.com/news-updates

The swim zones have been updated, so please, take a look. Big thanks to the guys that fought for these lanes, as they will come in handy, and potentially save some lives. Let's continue this trend of safety, and get access to more beaches. This is for the safety of us all. The full report can be found here

Trip Date: 29/06/2022 ***We have two launch points for this event*** Please read it in detail… Meeting Time: Tortuga, Little Armier for Maltese-based paddlers, in the water and paddling by 0530am, please arrive early to prepare. Meeting Time for Gozo paddlers, be water ready at Hondoq, 0630. We will paddle from Armier and meet you in Hondoq. We will leave after a short break and greetings. Distance: No more than 12km, for Gozo-based paddlers, around 24km for people leaving Malta. Plan: We park at little Armier, Tortuga, in the water and paddling at 0530am. We head straight to Hondoq and take a break to say hello and meet up with the other crew. We head to Mgarr Ix-Xini, stopping as we wish or need, investigating little beaches, coves, lagoons, and caves. We break, maybe staggered, depending on the size of the group, and head back towards Hondoq. Maltese-based paddlers will cross the channel and rest and swim at the blue lagoon through the sea cave entrance for Kemmunett, then home. Gozo paddlers are welcome to join, of course, then off to our respected launch points. Difficulty: Beginner friendly for Gozo paddlers, intermediate to advanced for Maltese paddlers. Projected winds: Force 3 to 4 from NW. Projected swells: 0.2M to 0.4M projected NW. Risks: 1. Many boaters may be present. We must stay together for safety and to stay HIGH VIS whilst crossing channels. 2. Slipways--we have not investigated these slips for risk assessment (always take great caution, they are called slips for a reason). 3. Sun, ferries, boats, jetskis and rogue waves. 4. Gloves are recommended and proper footwear. 6. Jellyfish: Bring a small jelly kit with bicarbonate of soda and an old credit card in your first aid kits if you plan to swim. Safety tips: Stay close together. We shouldn't be too far from each other. If you are too far to receive help, how can we help? Keep whistles handy and wear high vis PFDs and clothes Take extreme caution on slips and rocks. Use proper footwear Again, stay well grouped up, within whistle shot of your neighbor Drink plenty of water, wear sunblock, and proper clothes. Be smart, plan ahead. Things to bring: Your own kayak, rentals are not available for this event. Paddle and spare PFD (required) Bilge Pump or other way to evacuate water Spray decks (or skirts) Paddle leashes should be used (just use a cheap rope if you need to) Whistles Plenty of water, we freeze a 2.5 liter the night before. Sunblock (spf 50+) Sun protection, including hats, proper spf clothes Plenty of sugary and salty food and snacks Dry bags Recording equipment and ways to protect it. ***Disclaimer of Events*** GOAK Malta is a ‘closed’ group and attending events/activities is voluntary by you as a member. Participation in any event within this group is at your own risk. By joining the events as a member, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless “Get Out and Kayak Malta”, its organizers, assistants, and any given member within the event/activity of GOAK Malta, from all claims or liability of every type (including court costs and legal fees) for injury or death to any person or for damage to property, loss of personal property or any other wrongful act arising out of or relating to your participation as a member. This agreement applies to you and any other person (as your guest) who may accompany you in these endeavors. By participating voluntarily in GOAK Malta, you understand that you are responsible for your own safety. Also, we record with several cameras and drones. By coming with us, you accept this and expect to be recorded and published on our socials and YouTube. If this doesn't sound like your cuppa tea, the sea is quite large ;-) You can sign a waiver form athttps://www.getoutandkayakmalta.com/news-updates

Trip Date: 14/06/2022 Meeting Time: 7:00pm. Please be punctual, as the moon waits for no one. Departure: Manoel Island Jetty Distance: No more than 10km, most likely around 8.5km. Plan: We park here, in the water and paddling at 0730pm, under the bridge of Manoel Island and hug the island, then shoot over to Valletta side. Once we get near the breakwater, we enter The Grand Harbour. If the group decides, we can go under the Siege Bell. If not, we head to Ricasoli East Breakwater. Just there, more near the Fort, there is a place to park the boats and get out. We plan to watch the Moonrise on the breakwater itself. The moon will rise in the East. After we had our fill, we go home. Difficulty: Beginner-friendly!!! Projected winds: Force 2. Projected swells: 0.2M projected. Risks: 1. Many boaters may be present. We must stay together for safety and to stay HIGH VIS in the harbour and breakwater areas. 2. Slipways--we have not investigated these slips for risk assessment 3. Sun, ferries, boats, and jetskis 4. Gloves are recommended and proper footwear. 6. Jellyfish: Bring a small jelly kit with bicarbonate of soda and an old credit card in your first aid kits if you plan to swim. Safety tips: Stay close together. We shouldn't be too far from each other. If you are too far to receive help, how can we help? Keep whistles handy and wear high vis PFDs and clothes Take extreme caution on slips and rocks. Use proper footwear Again, stay well grouped up, within whistle shot of your neighbor Drink plenty of water, wear sunblock, and proper clothes. Be smart, plan ahead. Things to bring: Your own kayak, rentals are not available yet Paddle and spare PFD (required) Bilge Pump or another way to evacuate water Spray decks (or skirts) Paddle leashes should be used (just use a cheap rope if you need to) Whistles Plenty of water Snacks/food Sunblock (spf 50+) Sun protection, including hats, proper spf clothes Plenty of food and snacks Dry bags Mosquito repellent Recording equipment and ways to protect it. Fairy lights for your kayak (most are not waterproof, but can go in your cockpit) Headtorch--per Maltese law, vessels our size that are navigating at night must have, at least, a white headtorch on during movement. ***Disclaimer of Events*** GOAK Malta is a ‘closed’ group and attending events/activities is voluntary by you as a member. Participation in any event within this group is at your own risk. By joining the events as a member, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless “Get Out and Kayak Malta”, its organizers, assistants, and any given member within the event/activity of GOAK Malta, from all claims or liability of every type (including court costs and legal fees) for injury or death to any person or for damage to property, loss of personal property or any other wrongful act arising out of or relating to your participation as a member. This agreement applies to you and any other person (as your guest) who may accompany you in these endeavours. By participating voluntarily in GOAK Malta, you understand that you are responsible for your own safety. Also, we record with several cameras and drones. By coming with us, you accept this and expect to be recorded and published on our socials and YouTube. If this doesn't sound like your cuppa tea, the sea is quite large ;-) You can sign a waiver form at https://www.getoutandkayakmalta.com/news-updates

We meet and park here, Quarry Wharf Parking Trip Date: 07/06/2022 Meeting Time: 5:00am Please be punctual, as the sun waits for no one. Departure: Quarry wharf parking, Valletta (https://goo.gl/maps/PcsrwLVpERS4AsDN6) Distance: No more than 10km, most likely around 8.5, thanks for the google maps work Pierre! Plan: We park here (https://goo.gl/maps/PcsrwLVpERS4AsDN6), in the water and paddling at 0530am, we hug the coast, under the siege bell (if it is too dark we will hit it on the return), to out near the breakwater (Green Lighthouse area) for sunrise. After our fill, If the swells allow, we can check out the cave (35.89735849879786, 14.5274920263189), just outside Ricasoli. This cave has cannons in the water still and can be seen easily. If the swells do not allow, we abort this plan and head in towards Rinella and onwards, taking breaks where we please and investigating. we head to the Ricasoli East Breakwater (red lighthouse, aka port side lateral mark), then into Rinella and huggling the cities. There are many members that have not been here before, so we will give them the luxury of all the eye candy. If anyone is late, they can easily meet up and find us. We hope to back by noon and have stops for swimming too. Difficulty: Beginner-friendly!!! Projected winds: Force 2 to 3 with gusts. Projected swells: 0.4M projected, but we should have plenty of protection. Risks: 1. Many boaters may be present. We must stay together for safety and to stay HIGH VIS in the harbour and breakwater areas. 2. Slipways--we have not investigated these slips for risk assessment 3. Sun, ferries, boats, and jetskis 4. Heat/sunstroke: wear proper spf suncream and spf clothes. Wear a full covering hat as well. Gloves are recommended and proper footwear. We do not like seeing burnt skin… 5. Dehydration: Freeze 2 or 2.5 liters of water the night prior and you will have no worries. 6. Jellyfish: Bring a small jelly kit with bicarbonate of soda and an old credit card in your first aid kits. Safety tips: Stay close together. We shouldn't be too far from each other. If you are too far to receive help, how can we help? Keep whistles handy and wear high vis PFDs and clothes Take extreme caution on slips and rocks. Use proper footwear Again, stay well grouped up, within whistle shot of your neighbor Drink plenty of water, wear sunblock, and proper clothes. Be smart, plan ahead. Things to bring: Your own kayak, rentals are not available yet Paddle and spare PFD (required) Bilge Pump or other way to evacuate water Spray decks (or skirts) Paddle leashes should be used (just use a cheap rope if you need to) Whistles Plenty of water (2 or 2.5 liters or more) Sunblock (spf 50+) Sun protection, including hats, proper spf clothes Plenty of food and snacks Money for kiosks (if you want) Dry bags ***Disclaimer of Events*** GOAK Malta is a ‘closed’ group and attending events/activities is voluntary by you as a member. Participation in any event within this group is at your own risk. By joining the events as a member, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless “Get Out and Kayak Malta”, its organizers, assistants, and any given member within the event/activity of GOAK Malta, from all claims or liability of every type (including court costs and legal fees) for injury or death to any person or for damage to property, loss of personal property or any other wrongful act arising out of or relating to your participation as a member. This agreement applies to you and any other person (as your guest) who may accompany you in these endeavours. By participating voluntarily in GOAK Malta, you understand that you are responsible for your own safety. Also, we record with several cameras and drones. By coming with us, you accept this and expect to be recorded and published on our socials and YouTube. If this doesn't sound like your cuppa tea, the sea is quite large ;-) You can sign a waiver form at https://www.getoutandkayakmalta.com/news-updates

Trip Date: 15/05/2022 Time to depart: 8:00am, arrive early to prepare, we cannot be too late, due to heat. Departure: White Tower Bay Distance: 14km or more Arrivals: Hondoq, Gozo and Kemmunett Beach Difficulty: Intermediate Paddlers due to length of paddle Projected winds: Nil Projected swells: minimal, but some expected rogue swells due to boaters, jetskis and fast ferries Risks: 1. Crossing channel several times, many boaters will be present. We must stay together for safety and to stay HIGH VIS 2. Slipways--we have not investigated these slips for risk assessment 3. Fast ferries, boats, and jetskis 4. Heat/sunstroke Safety tips: Stay close together. We shouldn't be too far from each other. If you are too far to receive help, how can we help? Keep whistles handy and wear high vis PFDs and clothes Take extreme caution on slips and rocks. Use proper footwear Again, stay well grouped up, within whistle shot of your neighbor Drink plenty of water, wear sunblock, and proper clothes. Summer has arrived. We do not want to have to call for support to come for you if you get heatstroke on the water. Be smart, plan ahead. Things to bring: Your own kayak, rentals are not available yet Paddle and spare PFD (required) Bilge Pump or other way to evacuate water Spray decks (or skirts) Paddle leashes should be used (just use a cheap rope if you need to) Whistles Plenty of water (2 or 2.5 liters or more) Sunblock (spf 50+) Sun protection, including hats, proper spf clothes Plenty of food and snacks Money for kiosks (if you want) Dry bags Thanks to Etienne, we are all planned and ready to leave from Marfa, Malta Meeting point at White Tower Bay, click here for an interactive map. The plan is to go to Hondoq, Gozo after the launching point. Once there, we rest, chill, eat, and chat. We hope to meet up with some Gozitan paddlers here and go to the Blue Lagoon together. Once we leave, we head to the sea-cave to go to Kemmunett Beach to enjoy the Blue Lagoon a bit, then head back to Malta. Kayaks are not available to rent for this event...yet Thank you for your support! ***Disclaimer of Events*** GOAK Malta is a ‘closed’ group and attending events/activities is voluntary by you as a member. Participation in any event within this group is at your own risk. By joining the events as a member, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless “Get Out and Kayak Malta”, its organizers, assistants, and any given member within the event/activity of GOAK Malta, from all claims or liability of every type (including court costs and legal fees) for injury or death to any person or for damage to property, loss of personal property or any other wrongful act arising out of or relating to your participation as a member. This agreement applies to you and any other person (as your guest) who may accompany you in these endeavours. By participating voluntarily in GOAK Malta, you understand that you are responsible for your own safety. Also, we record with several cameras and drones. By coming with us, you accept this and cannot hold us liable, or sue for monies earned from YouTube or other means of digital creations. You can sign a waiver form at https://www.getoutandkayakmalta.com/news-updates The planned route, thanks to Etienne! Launch point Windfinder readout. Want to learn how to read this? Click here Still have questions?!? Use your chat box in the lower right, we will answer ASAP. See you Sunday!

Sorry for the late notice, but we were not sure we could make it. Tomorrow, Saturday, 14/05/2022, meet us at Sol Beach Bar Slip in Mellieha. We will be in the water at 7:30am, so arrive early to prepare, park, etc... Our goal is to paddle to the Coral Lagoon and back: Here is the proposed route and distance: Windfinder readout After our 9km paddle, we should be nice and warmed up for more level 2 training that we did last summer. Skills we will focus on: lifting, carrying and launching the kayak disembarking edging and turning paddle techniques capsizing, retaining equipment, emptying, assisted re-entry jumping out and climbing back in (assisted) efficient forward paddling reverse paddling and stopping draw strokes and moving the kayak sideways low brace support stroke and preventing a capsize stern rudder Eskimo Rescue (demonstrate recovery with lower body rotation from an upside-down position while maintaining a hold on the rescuer’s bow, where the kayak is appropriate for this (may be preceded with practice until recovering from an upside-down position). We will also be practicing the Eskimo roll (assisted) Things to bring: Your own kayak, rentals are not available yet Paddle and spare PFD (required) Bilge Pump or other way to evacuate water Spray decks (or skirts) Paddle leashes should be used (just use a cheap rope if you need to) Whistles Plenty of water Sunblock (spf 50+) Sun protection, including hats, proper spf clothes Plenty of food and snacks Money for kiosks (if you want) Dry bags If you have any questions, contact us right away! Also, if you have not done so, visit our news and update page and sign the photo and video waiver form. Thanks and see you all soon!

Please go to their FB page and register to volunteer. Their FB can be found, HERE. Off to Qawra! Please sign-up via the ticket button (it's free) Meeting Point - https://goo.gl/maps/9Rj4kibiqRhiVrTD6 COAST - If you’re not joining us in the water, you can lend a hand on land sorting and/or covering the surrounding coastline DIVERS - If you'd like to dive on the day please send us a private on the page so we can coordinate the dive team & if you haven't already, join our Żibel Dive Tribe for FREE tanks and equipment on the day courtesy of Dive Systems Malta. To book your dive equipment, please contact Dive Systems directly. We’ll have a ground and sea support crew ready to help out divers below on the day. That morning, we'll be briefing all divers on how the logistics will work and any other details we feel we should point out whilst on the dive. ON THE DAY WE’LL PROVIDE - Drinks and some food for volunteers - Gloves and mesh bags provided - Other equipment such as lifting bags and knives will be provided (feel free to bring your own) Giving back feels good! Want to help?!? Please go to their FB page and register to volunteer. Their FB can be found, HERE.

Departure Point: Gnejna Bay Potential Destination: Fomm Ir-Rih Distance: about 7 km (my readouts are still a work in progress) Time: 1.5 hours Conditions: Temp: 20C Winds: 8/km NW Clouds: Hazy Swells: None Kayaks present: Six Thanks to the recommendation for this awesome night Cap! We value our members' input, and Cap threw out there he wanted to see a sunset, so, we packed up and headed out, and we met them on the water around 5:15pm, after work. We didn't realize, but they had met up earlier, went to the caves and were sitting at the Cabana having a coffee. We jumped in the water, and met Alex, and waited for the others to get in their kayaks. As you can see with the pic of Alex above, the water was quite calm and relaxed, perfect for a sunset paddle. We quickly formed up and headed west, then south towards the Santa Marija Caves. On the way, there are plenty of opportunities to rock hop, and grab some killer pics of the rocks, or video clips of the water retreating back into the sea. These areas are known as Ras il-Pellegrin and Pullicino's Cove. An extremely popular hiking destination, quickly made popular since the pandemic, is a mere 1.59 km paddle from Gnejna. We do consider this to be a beginner journey at this point, however, going to these places without proper help is not recommended. There are shallow reefs, and the swells are notorious for broadsiding kayaks and knocking people from their boats. #KayakTips incoming! Always wear a PFD (personal flotation device) to avoid disaster. Use a paddle leash that connects your paddle to your kayak (click here to read here for more information on leashes). Don't go alone, ever. We have been paddling a lot since getting our new kayaks, as far as distance is concerned, and we were hardly ready to be done, so, we headed South to Fomm Ir-Rih to chill on the beach and have a snack. If you haven't been before, it's a lovely paddle, not too far, and the sound of the pebbles rolling on the beach is truly awesome! Click play to listen So now we have paddled about 3.5 km or so, and we need to take a break here to relax a bit, chat, and snack. If you haven't been here before, it is a lovely private beach that is nearly impossible to get to without a kayak, which is why we love our kayaks so much. All of the sudden, we had some serious swells pounding the beach, so, this was a perfect time to practice some #kayakskills. Entering and exiting the kayak, especially in rougher conditions are pretty tricky. Luckily, we have help because we go with friends. When assisting someone, put the kayak partly in the water, so it is somewhat buoyant. Have the kayaker get in the cockpit normally, but, before that, the assistant is to actually sit on the rear hatch of the fellow kayaker they are assisting. This ensures safety and that the kayak will not roll as they are getting in. Once they are in, push them out, straight as possible as to not broadside. Once they pass the swells cresting, then they can prepare their sprayskirts and paddle on. We did an Ocean Clean Up Event last year, with NGO Zibel (click their name to go to their FB page) or click this link here to see our video from our YouTube Channel. After snacking, we had to head back out, to meet the sun. To be honest, we did not expect to see such colors this night, as it was very hazy and cloudy. When we paddled back past Santa Marija Caves, near Ras il-Pellegrin, we were blessed with vibrant colors, and a beautifully setting sun! We stayed for quite a while before heading in, snapping photos, relaxing, and breathing. The silence on the water is something one cannot truly put into words, you have to experience it, and being on the kayak is the best way to do it, surrounded by friends. Want to take part and you have your own kayak? Head to www.GetOutandKayakMalta.com/members to sign up for free! Want to join our Facebook pages and chats? Click here

This Saturday, 30/04/2022 all are invited for an early Sunrise Paddle! Early bird gets the worm! Meet us here, in Birzebugia Public Car Park https://goo.gl/maps/ZQQy1BrWgk2vdg3g6 at 5am, in the water at 5:15am. Sunrise is at 6:11am (see below pics for info) We have to be in the water and paddling out to meet the sun, and it will be dark (please see photos at the end of this document). Bring a head torch to see, and to wear at the beginning of the paddle. A kayak is considered to be a vessel, especially moving, so, a white light is required by law when paddling in darkness. The water will not be serene, and perhaps a bit choppy 0.7M, but according to our resources, the winds are minimal, force 2 and the cliffs of Kalanka will protect us. The swells will be around 0.5-0.7M in the open sea, but we may be protected by the breakwater/cliffs. The plan is to paddle out of the port, or close to it, to see the sun. Then, we will go towards Delimara/Marsaxlokk for a stretch and morning nibbles, then towards Pretty Bay and back in. This will be a great way to start the weekend together and to see a beautiful sunrise. We hope to be in by 8:30/9:00 am. Please see below for pertinent event info, maps, Windfinder, and more. Please bring the following equipment: Your own kayak Sprayskirt Paddle and spare Bilge pump or other water evacuation tool Water Sunblock Hat Proper sun-protective clothing Proper water protective gear, if needed Food and snacks Mobile or other recording devices and a way to protect them Dry Bags Buoyancy aids, if needed Sounds you may hear in the port: A vessel altering its course to starboard shall indicate that manoeuvre by one short blast on her whistle. a vessel altering its course to port shall indicate that manoeuvre by two short blasts on her whistle. ***Kayaking is not inherently dangerous, but dangers are involved, and G.O.A.K. cannot be held responsible for any injuries that may or could occur. You are coming of your own volition and no fee is required. G.O.A.K. and her members frequently use recording equipment and photography.*** ***If being photographed, or recorded, or having a drone potentially fly overhead isn't your thing, please let us know a.s.a.p.***

Departure Point: Mistra Bay Potential Destination: Ghadira Distance: 13km Time: 2.5 hours Conditions: Temp: 22C Winds: Negligible Clouds: Hazy Swells: None Kayaks present: Two (Lella u Turu) We worked pretty hard over the weekend sharing kayaking stories, information, and answering general questions about kayaking at the EcoMarket Malta. It was a really nice experience and our very first invite to an event like this. We hope to see many of the new faces on the water very soon. Because we were so busy at the EcoMarket, we couldn't kayak and the weather over the weekend was spectacular. We were pretty envious of our buddies that were able to partake in kayaking and we needed some paddle time ourselves, so, we took a #mentalhealthday, packed up the gear, and headed to Mistra Bay in the North of the island. If you are not aware, they completely redid the slipway here, and it is extremely wide, clean, and a perfect angle for entry and exiting. When we arrived, there was a gentleman enjoying his RC sailboat, relaxing on the slipway, so, we opted for a beach entry and let him have his peace and quiet. (The photo at the beginning of this log is actually of us at the end of our trip, because the slipway was empty.) He was actually quite appreciative of the gesture, and waved at us and nodded. He did try, it seemed, to race a bit, but we left him in our wakes and headed toward Blata il-Bajda, Selmun. Just as you turn port-side after passing through Saint Paul's Channel, you may see a land bridge made of stone, which is normally inaccessible due to it being in a swim zone. We are pretty sure this area is called Shipwreck Window. After some investigation, we discovered scores of jellyfish, Mauve Jellies to be exact, and of various sizes but all with massively long tentacles and oral arms. Mauve Jelly found near Selmun A smack of jellyfish. Did you know a group of jellies is called a smack?!? Now you do ;-) These jellies DO STING and they hurt! Want to know what the Mayo Clinic says about jellyfish stings and how best to combat the sting? Click here! After exploring Blata il-Bajda in detail, we started to get hungry and went to Imgiebah for a nice break, again, this area is usually a swim zone as well, but now, absolutely devoid of humans. Snack time!!! We easily could have had our fill, but we wanted more. We jumped in the kayaks, and paddled towards Mellieha, Ghadira to be exact. We pulled our 'yaks well off the waterline, to avoid beachgoers tripping over the boats and so they could have unfettered access to the sea. #kayaktip incoming! If the video didn't play, it is explaining the importance of clearing the pathways of beaches. Please be respectful on slipways, and beaches. Give people access, as you want it when you are there. A lot of very uncomfortable situations can be solved with a little respect and forethought. Whilst there, we couldn't resist our very first ice cream from Gelateria kiosk food and drinks. We told the nice man at the counter we paddled from Mistra to come for his ice cream, as we think he hooked us up with a little extra chocolate sauce! The dudes that clean up the beaches looked like they were getting ready for the day, so, we decided for a more private beach instead ;-) Unfortunately, this is where our paddle ends, and we pack up and headed home. The journey, in total, was around 13km. What's your favorite time of the year to paddle?

Volunteers needed!! QLZH invite you to join for our annual Ocean bed Clean-up event organised by QLZH Foundation, supported by Kunsill Lokali l-Isla and sponsored by QuickLets, Zanzi Homes, QLC, Wave Of Change, No To Plastic Malta, Dr. Juice, Dive Systems, Deloitte, Deloitte Foundation, Green Skip Services Ltd and MDA. Help support this drive and awareness by volunteering for this fantastic event in Isla on Saturday 7th May at 8:30AM. We are looking for Advanced Open Water Divers (tank and kit provided), snorkelers (all ages), land pickers (all ages), kayakers and rib or boat drivers. Also attending will be the LEGEND himself Neil Agius. Last year we collected 3340KG of trash - let's make Malta cleaner! Join the fun and register your interest on bit.ly/qlzhoceancleanup Visit their FB page here https://www.facebook.com/events/679327376684238/?ref=newsfeed