It had been just over three years since my last proper sea paddle. When a friend’s club member, Genny, was touring Asia and heading to Thailand, it was a no-brainer to organise a three-day trip from Koh Chang with Amy and Tu — the new Thai owners of Kayak Chang — using their best gear: Tiderace kayaks, Werner paddles and good Palm equipment. Kayaking has really taken off here over the last five or six years, and Amy and Tu are a great driving force for the sport.
Day One — Magic Resort to Bang Bao (14.5 km)
We started from Magic Resort beach in Kai Bae, practising our skills between the exposed rocky outcrops and stopping at Lisca Beach for a snack and a cool-off, before continuing into the fishing village of Bang Bao and landing in front of our accommodation for the night.
Day Two — Koh Klum, Koh Wai & Koh Prao Nok (22 km)
We headed out towards Koh Klum, stopping to swim and cool off, then on to Koh Wai for lunch — a hot Cha Ron tea for me. We continued to Koh Lao Ya Nai and Koh Prao Nok, where we waited for the resort pick-up. Honestly my biggest distance in years — I was very tired, but exhilarated.
Day Three — Salakphet, Wai Chaek & back to Bang Bao (14.5 km)
We headed towards the fishing village of Salakphet, between islands not even on the chart, honing our skills among the rocks and breaking waves to a lovely lagoon at Wai Chaek, paddling up into the mangroves. Then back along the coast past the old ‘Ghost Ship’ at Bang Bao — a great end to the trip.
Thanks to Tu and Amy for their support. It’s wonderful to see so many more kayakers visiting the islands now, and to know Amy and Tu are holding small seminars to teach rescues and skills. Here’s to more paddling.
