On 28th May 2025, a routine paddle from Oban to North Ledaig became an opportunity to show exactly why preparation, experience, and calm leadership matter on the water — and we’ve captured it all in real time.
During a 9km sea kayak journey, our club chairman Dave and his brothers Mark and Glenn were revisiting the very waters where Dave first paddled a homemade kayak over 50 years ago. But around 1.5km off Ledaig Point, a wave struck from behind, capsizing Mark’s kayak and setting the stage for a real deep-water rescue.
🎬 This wasn’t a training drill — this was a real capsize in open water.
With experienced club leaders and coaches present, the situation was handled swiftly and professionally. The rescue took just 2 minutes and 19 seconds from capsize to re-entry, and under 4 minutes in total before Mark was safely back underway.
🛶 What You’ll See in the Video:
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Calm, clear leadership in a real-world setting
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Group control and quick assessment
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Deep water rescue techniques including water pumping and assisted re-entry
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Full incident captured with a visible timer
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A paddler who’s safe, smiling, and back on the waves
🧭 Why It Matters:
At Kingston Kayak Club, we don’t just teach theory — we practise and live it. Whether you’re new to paddling or an experienced sea kayaker, being part of a group that knows how to respond in an emergency makes all the difference.
This video is a fantastic example of:
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Why preparation and group management is essential
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How to be both a capable rescuer and an active casualty
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The value of experience, good communication, and the right equipment
We’re proud of how the team handled this situation — and grateful to Mark for being such a good sport about having his capsize shared with the world!
🔗 Watch the Full Video Now:
👉 Watch on YouTube
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe and share the channel to support the club and help more paddlers learn from real-life situations.