Location: Sentosa Southern Coast
Tides: H to L, drift west
Time: Early sunrise
It had been a long time since I've unpacked the good old foldable kayak for a spin around the block. Things have been really busy on the personal front and now that those things have settled, it is high time to relive some old interests.
Since I've literally settled in the west, a good starting point was to try out Sentosa. After all, it is there, costs just an entry fee and should prove to be a good morning's paddle. Things began to seem familiar again, studying tide tables and launch points to determine the best route afforded by the tides and currents for the morning.
Starting off from a very secluded Tanjong beach at 0730 hours, it was a tranquil paddle westwards passing by Palawan and then Siloso beaches. It is amazing how many people have stayed on the island overnight fishing and camping. I think a solo paddler on a bright red foldable kayak is not an often sight as I attracted some curious stares. The most humorous part of the trip was when a couple, camping on the breakwater facing the open sea, decided to open their tent door when they were on a state of undress, both boy and girl. I think they were not expecting anyone to be looking into their door from this direction. They managed to zip up the tent door in double quick time but not before 'ahem' exposing themselves a little. Nonetheless, most of the others were friendly and most obliged with a wave in return.
I was particularly concerned about paddling in port waters however, I had 3-4 coast guard patrol boats pass me by without them stopping me.
The one thing I forgot was food. I thought Siloso beach would have something for me to buy but none of the shops were open at this early hour. On the way back, I decided to check out Sentosa cove and paddled towards the lock gate towards. The houses there are really huge. Was hoping to paddle into the canals but was denied entry by the security at the gates.
All in all, it was a good first paddle in Tashi in a long time. So nothing too strenuous. I will be keen for a circumnavigation of the island sometime soon and a hop over to the southern islands, with probably an overnight camp also. If anyone is keen, please feel free to contact me.
The Superstar Virgo returns
Entrance to Sentosa Cove
The Southern islands beckon
Just to prove I was really on the boat
