We fancied a portage-free Safari to make a change from our recent more strenuous adventures around London’s Limehouse Loop and Brentford. Many of our member’s had been off the water over winter and wanted to ease themselves back in with a more relaxed, shorter Safari. The leader and organiser of this trip had long wanted to explore the Slough Arm of the Grand Union Canal, so we booked a table for lunch at The Malt Shovel and the pub kindly allowed us to park and paddle from there beforehand.

Nine DPB Club members were joined by two returning non-members, one on a SUP and one with her sit on top kayak. After the standard safety briefing we walked the short distance from the carpark to our launch point below Cowley Lock.

We took a leisurely pace down to the junction of the Slough Arm where one of the group who was testing out a new longer, narrower board than his own turned a little too suddenly and took an unexpected dip into the icy cold water! Liz, one of the three qualified Paddlesport Leaders in attendance swiftly aided his rescue and the group took the opportunity for a rest and refreshment break whilst he hid behind a wall for a full outfit change into his warm, dry emergency clothing.

The group continued slowly along the Slough Arm which was rural feeling and boat-free. We were pleasantly surprised by the lack of litter in the water. Although to Caroline’s delight she found and rescued a brand new hose reel – just what she needed for her allotment!

Mindful of our lunch booking we decided to turn and make our way back to the pub. In the chaos, personal spacing was momentarily forgotten and an accidental nudge from behind sent our second member of the day for a swim 😥 Eva, another of our qualified leader’s emergency rescue skills and spare kit were put to good use enabling us all to make it back to the pub before hypothermia set in.

Seven stayed for a delicious lunch at The Malt Shovel. We’ll definitely be back to explore the remainder of the Slough Arm when we have more time.

Next up on our Social & Safari Calendar The Jubilee River on March 22nd. Dittons Paddle Boarding Club member’s get all Socials & Safaris FREE. Non members are always welcomed too for just a small booking fee.