Lee Thompson

Living in Shetland, I had heard of the lengendary trips made to Eastern Greenland

by Martin Rickard.

I first contacted Martin early in 2008 to make enquiries and wondered if I, a recent beginner (3 seasons) to sea kayaking, would be up to joining a trip of a lifetime such as this, although due to other commitments I wanted to go on a trip on 2009.

Martin seemed a nice guy and suggested we go out for a paddle. We did and had a great afternoon out, exchanging stories and thoughts about paddling out on the water. He has a very easy leadership style that makes for a relaxed, enjoyable outing while feeling secure that you are in safe hands.

So I put my name down for the first trip last year, 2009 and really looked forward to it - I wasn't disappointed!

Planning is really important to the success and enjoyment of any trip like this. Getting your personal gear, camping, clothing and food right is really important.

Martin kept all participants up to date with the arrangements by e-mail and phone and gave lots of help and advice as to what to bring and also not bring. Also what food we could expect to get out there. I took most of my food out from the UK and Martin was able to arrange for us all to get a bit more baggage allowance on the flights.

You have to pack light (although I had my own 2 man tent to myself) as its all got to go in your kayak once you are there.

Once out there in east Greenland, all members of the group enjoyed the stunning scenery, wild remote location, the people, culture and history as well as a fantastic seakayak trip amongst huge icebergs and through various forms of sea ice. Our trip went up to the north of Sermilik Fjord and only stopped when it was decided we could not paddle any further due to the dense pack ice.

From the vantage point up on land there, we could see 3 massive glaciers calving into the sea.

For me that was the highlight of the trip.

Martin knows this area well, the trip was well organised but flexible so we could

get the most out of the experience. He has a good selection of kayaks and

equipment which were all in good condition - At home I have a Tiderace Xcite but

during this trip paddled a Rockpool Menai 18 and thought it was a great expedition

 boat.

It was a costly expedition, but well worth it and I'd say good value for money.

It was easy going, friendly and more than fulfilled my expectations.

By the way, you can see some cracking photos on Seakayakadventures website,

but even these don't really do the landscapes justice!

Thanks Martin.

Cheers Lee