THE BITCHES
T
HE BITCHES are a spectacular set of tidal overfalls located just off the Pembrokeshire coast, forming in Ramsey Sound between the mainland and Ramsey Island. They’ve long been a popular spot for both the ocean kayak and free-
style kayak communities. In 1991, The Bitches played host to the first- ever Kayak Rodeo World Championships, putting it on the map as a world-class freestyle venue. Not simple a turnkey spot, The Bitches require consideration for safety
and planning, and a basic understanding of tidal flows. Access is a two- kilometer paddle from the shore near St. David’s. Due to the distance, swims have been fatal for boaters in the past. A keen knowledge of the incoming weather is valuable as wind or fog can cause navigation issues. There’s always some form of tidal rapids at The Bitches, but freestyle
kayakers should look for tides over six meters for the features to be at their best. The biggest tides occur in the spring, just after full moons and new moons. Keen groups can paddle at both ends of the day, catching both the morning and evening tides.
www.the-bitches.co.uk.
IF YOU GO: Sea Kayak Guides in Pembrokeshire will get you set up— they cater to playboats through to five-meter monsters.
www.seakayak-
guides.co.uk.
46 RAPID EARLY SUMMER 2013
PHOTO: JENS KLATT
PHOTO: JENS KLATT
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64