Day 29

Up at 6.30 a.m. We left Ballywalter at 8 a.m. The morning was cold and overcast and it was starting to rain. Fortunately the wind was at our backs so we made good paddling time to Portavogie, Strangford Lough and Ardglass. When we reached St. John's Point we were faced with a 14 mile open crossing of Dundrum Bay. Because the forecast was for the wind to get stronger we decided not to stop for lunch and to paddle straight across the Bay. We reached the far side of the bay and paddled past Annalong and Ballymartin. Finally we rounded the corner and landed in Kilkeel at 6.50 p.m. We had completed the 46 miles in 9 hours and 50 minutes. We have stopped at a caravan park, have gotten something to eat and after the long day we are hoping to get an early night. This will be our second night without any drink....starting to get upset! Our plan is to get up early tomorrow, cross Carlingford Lough, Dundalk Bay and make our way down to Skerries. We have 6 paddling days left so if the weather is good we are hoping to be home in Dungarvan next Saturday. So hopefully this will be our last Sunday pitching the tent - it is starting to become an environmental health hazard! On a personal note I would like to wish my son Aaron the best of luck on his last day in primary school tomorrow. Am proud of you buddy.