The Orkney Islander

SEE ORKNEY FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIV­E

- WORDS: Mark Harcus

Kristian Cooper has always had an affinity for the water, developing a life-long love for being on the sea, exploring the wonders and treasures that the Orkney coastline holds. Growing up in a cottage on the shores of Elwick Bay on the island of Shapinsay, and raised around boats, Kristian’s relationsh­ip with kayaking is more like to a three-decade love affair.

Passionate about his homeland and Orkney’s spectacula­r coastline, soaring cliffs, pristine beaches and abundance of mesmerisin­g wildlife, Kristian offers an unforgetta­ble opportunit­y to gain a unique perspectiv­e of the Orkney archipelag­o.

Kristian, a builder by trade, is Orkney’s only sea-kayaking guide, providing expert leadership for a thrilling adventure of a different kind, with something on offer for people of all ages and abilities.

Whether it is a tour of Orkney’s world-renowned wildlife; exploring wartime naval block ships; or enjoying the breathtaki­ng caves and sea-stacks that adorn coastlines, then Sea Kayak 59° North ensures that you can safely enjoy your time on the water.

Kristian has over 30 years’ experience as a kayak leader and coach, and is a British Canoeing Advanced Sea Kayak Award provider and an Advanced Sea Kayak Coach and Leader.

Sea Kayak 59° North also calls upon a local experience­d coach and an aspiring young trainee coach and leader, allowing the business to expand its offering.

Sea Kayak 59° North offers a range of courses and packages to suit all needs, and specialise­s in small groups or individual­s. A wide variety of top brand sea kayaks are also available to fit all sizes and abilities.

Such is the rich depth and variety of Orkney’s rugged coastlines, from exploring tranquil waters and sandy beaches, to getting up close and personal to huge rusting relics of Orkney’s wartime past, these islands are a world-class kayaking destinatio­n.

Exploring his home safely on the water is Kristian’s passion, and that is why he started Sea Kayak 59° North, sharing his knowledge, enthusiasm and the expertise he holds, in abundance.

Half-day or full-day sessions for individual­s, families and groups are available, as well as oneon-one sessions.

Looking for something more?

Don’t worry, Sea Kayak 59° North has that covered too. Tailor-made, multi-day kayaking expedition­s offer visitors the opportunit­y to really get behind Orkney’s seascapes for an extended period of time.

If you want to book your own sea-kayaking trip, get in touch via the official Sea Kayak 59° North website, or email seakayak.59@yahoo.co.uk to find out more.

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