“I had been thinking of purchasing a Canoe for some time but wanted some experience on local waters first to see what they had to offer. I fancied canoeing and camping so I got in contact with Dave and arranged a trip around the Swale/Medway area; we started at Oare (Faversham) and finished at Riverside Country Park (Rainham) a day later. During this time we explored many little creeks and islands. 

I did not realise there was so much to see around the area. There is the wildlife including the various birds and also seals which were at one point only about 5 meters away. Then there were the remains of the World War I Submarine, the World War II fortifications, the Napoleonic forts, the many shipwrecks, piers and other buildings you would not normally see, and above all there is the peace and freedom. I found the paddling reasonably easy going despite being quite unfit and the camping experience was great, sunsets and sunrises are real bonuses, basically something for everyone I think, I had my reservations on the canoe's stability as I am not a great swimmer, but despite some choppy water at times it was never an issue.”

Martin Grace (Martin did 2 day Oare to Rainham Tour)

“I'd never canoed before and, although I was very excited by the prospect of a day away from the mainland, I was slightly anxious; was I up to the physical demands, would I be able to stay in the boat and would I hinder my experienced and adventure-minded guide? Within ten minutes on the water all my anxieties had evaporated. Dave was very calm and clear when going through the basics and always ready with an encouraging word. Within less than an hour we'd landed on Nor Marsh. My arms didn't ache too much, we'd let in no water and the feeling on freedom was exhilarating.

After pitching a temporary camp we explored the marsh, which is giddy with history, before setting off for Fort Darnet. The view of the Medway Towns' shoreline in the distance, as the setting sun lit up the skyline, was stunning. Paddling in the still calm of dusk we arrived at the fort and set up camp. Dave's stories and humour set us up for the night. Waking to the rising sun and seeing the Isle of Sheppy in a completely new light was an unforgettable experience. And then we embarked on another adventure, across the small island and to the yawning mouth of the estuary. The sense of freedom and change of perspective was incredibly refreshing, as was the company and mode of transport. It was hard work at times but the warming feeling of physical aches at the end of the adventure went hand-in-hand with the peaceful and eye-opening experience.”

Steph Coole (Steph did a 2 day Medway Estuary Tour)