Port St Mary lies near the south east corner of the Isle of Man. This is a small fishing port, and consist of an outer and inner harbour, plus numerous berths for pleasure craft. Consequently there are numerous slip ways to gain access to the sea. We usually use the slipway adjacent to the outer pier.

Port St. Mary is an excellent start point for the sea kayaker. The harbour offers protection from rough seas, and the slipways provide easy access and parking. The area can be used as a gateway to the Sound and Calf of Man. The harbour area offers shelter for beginners and skills training.

Right: Large bay shortly after Port St Mary

Paddling right (south west) the kayaker passes the outside of the outer harbour wall. Shortly after leaving the harbour a number of reefs project out from the coast. These can cause an obstacle to the kayaker depending on the state of the tide. More importantly the shallow water over the reefs can create well formed surf. This initially appears tempting to the kayaker because it is often very clean in nature. Utilizing the surf is hazardous and best avoided as it leads directly to jagged rocks.

Past this area a large open bay appears. Rock hopping and some caves are available in this area as well as some reliable escape beeches (although rocky). There are footpaths available to clamber up the grassy cliffs. Liberating sea kayaks by this route however is a strenuous task.

Below: Spectacular rock formations, stacks and superb climbing.

Beyond this large bay and continuing to head south west the chasms are reached. This coastline consists of steep cliffs, a large stack and some excellent caves. There are no reliable escape points from here on until the Sound of Man is reached. The cliffs here are of multi layered rock leading to some interesting rock formations. This is the premier site in the Isle of Man for rock climbing. The multitude of ledges provides safe nesting for seabirds and is a magnet to ornithologists. Like so many paddles around the Isle of Man the scenery, wildlife, rock hopping and caves are stunning along this paddle. However, around the headlands and depending on wind and tide there can be tidal swells which are a prelude to those found around the Calf of Man.

Paddling left (west, north west) from the Port St. Mary slipway the outer, inner harbour and a multitude of moored craft require navigation. Following the coastline, past the raised coastal walkway a sandy beach is reached, all still within Port St. Mary and usually sheltered. Around the next corner, marked by jagged rocks and some reefs, with a marker evident, the kayaker soon reaches Gansey Beach. This long sandy beach is a favourite for surfers. Beware however, at high tide the protective boulders which form part of the sea defences are a danger to surfers. This large bay continues northwards, and gradually becomes more rocky. This route is usually sheltered from the prevailing winds, has plenty of reliable escape points and is one we use for less experienced kayakers and for skills training.

The Harbour offers shelter and safety.

Warning: Kayaking can be dangerous. Non of the information provided here should be used to plan paddles by inexperienced kayakers, and without expert help and appropriate equipment. In no way should any person assume that any information contained on this site is a recommendation of the safety of the location, facility or professionalism of the instructing personnel. Indeed, some of the locations described can be dangerous.

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