Through hell and, literally, high water, experienced sea kayaker Rich Harpham fought the swell and journeyed to Scilly from Land’s End.

I like a challenge and this was one I’d cherished for some time: completing the 30 nautical mile journey from Cornwall to the Isles of Scilly by kayak rather than the more conventional methods of travel. I, together with my small team of fellow kayakers and our support boat, set off from Lamorna on the South Coast of Cornwall and paddled into the four-metre swell. Land’s End was our first landmark, and we took obligatory ‘selfies’ before putting our heads down.

There’s no denying, it was strenuous stuff and it wasn’t long before we were beginning to feel the effects of fatigue. But then the Royal Navy rescue helicopter did a fly by and its crew gave a standing ovation which rejuvenated us. The feelgood factor continued when the Scillonian passenger ferry passed us with a long toot of the horn.

After seven hours, we began to see something on the horizon. A mirage? Thankfully not! At last, the Isles of Scilly were in sight. We paddled into St. Mary’s harbour and headed for the beach amongst the gigs in Hugh Town. We were elated. We’d done it! After a shower, some (excellent) local beer and food, we got some much-needed sleep. The crossing had taken 9 hours and 40 minutes due to the conditions – but we more than made up for it during our two-day stay on the islands. We explored the rocky outcrops and sheltered bays around Samson and Tresco and, despite a storm that blew through, it was a paddling heaven with big swells and clear tropical waters.

There are a number of places on my adventures that have left me with a strong desire to return. The Isles of Scilly is high on this list. I can’t wait to explore more of the archipelago by kayak or stand up paddleboard, and enjoy once more the crystal clear waters and the warm sub-tropical air.