SA Coastline Solo Kayak: Finished!

Day 70 – Sodwana to Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique, 85km

I woke at 04h00 to hear the trees moving. That’s a good thing if the wind is in the right direction. It was the last morning of the daily routine, coffee, rusks, more coffee, load up the Land Rover. Parking at the beach I was still not sure of the wind direction, but once I climbed to the top of the dune I managed a smile, it was looking positive.

There was a distinct line defined by hundreds of jellyfish, quite a spectacular sight. I also almost had a head-on collision with a rather large turtle, we both got a fright as I sped past with only inches to spare.

The Final Stretch

Once I passed Kosi Bay I only had 6km to go to Ponta do Ouro, and 4km to the South African border. I was thinking about what I should be thinking about, especially as this was my last hour of the trip. Having just paddled 3,300km, I decided that I had savoured enough already, and thought about all the people I had met along the way and their kindness.

All I required was a hug from Warren and a firm handshake with a “well done, son.” That is exactly how it happened.

Done and dusted! I completed the entire SA coastline in a kayak. What an adventure.

I hope we have done something worthy enough to raise awareness for children born with cleft lips and palates, with Operation Smile.