Adventure Group – Sea cave safari
For October’s adventure we’ll be kayaking with extras. Sea Kayak Torbay, the provider of the adventure, promises us kayaking, fossil hunting, foraging and wild food tasting. We might even see some seals.
Here is everything that you need to know:
| Nature of activity | Following appropriate beginner level instruction, our kayaking trip will take in hidden coves and sea caves, wildlife spotting and a visit to a secluded beach.
We will all be sharing two seater kayaks for the trip (unless we have an odd number!) The trip will cover a total of about 4km, with frequent stops to see highlights and a 30 minute break in the middle. |
| Name of u3a organiser and organiser’s contact details | Miggie Pickton email via: adventure@u3a.dawlish.info |
| Location of activity | Oddicombe Beach Babbacombe Downs Road Torquay TQ1 3LF |
| Date and start time | Two options are available:
Start time is 10am. Please notify Miggie of your preferred date if you have not done so already. Please aim to arrive at the meeting point about 15 mins before this. |
| Meeting point | In front of the Sea Kayak Torbay premises (head towards the cafe and it is on the left). |
| Duration | Three hours |
| Public transport and car parking facilities | The number 11 bus between Dawlish and Torquay goes through Babbacombe; get off at Hampton Avenue.
In October there is limited parking next to the beach. Otherwise, the nearest parking is available on street near the Babbacombe Cliff Railway. The closest car parks are Princes Street and St Marychurch. There is a very steep winding road from the street to the beach and you should allow 10 mins to walk down. I am assured that the funicular railway will still be running in October this year so we can ride back up on this if we wish (£2.50 single). If not, Keiran our leader has promised he will provide a shuttle service! |
| Cost, including deposit required | £45 |
| Cost includes | Hire of kayak; all technical clothing and equipment; marine wildlife specialist guide; beach fire & marshmallows. |
| Deadline for commitment | £25 deposit per person to be paid to Dawlish and District u3a Treasurer by Friday 25th September
Bank details are as follows: Name of bank: NatWest |
| Deadline for payment in full | Balance (£20) to be paid to the u3a Treasurer by Friday 2nd October (or if you prefer, you may pay the full amount to the Treasurer by Friday 25th September). |
| Cancellation policy | If you cancel by 25th September then you will get a full refund. After this a refund may only be possible if we can find somebody else to take your place.
If the provider cancels then everyone on the cancelled date will get a full refund. |
| Procedure for notifying group if provider cancels | Sea Kayak Torbay will check the weather forecast a few days ahead of our trips and decide whether conditions are likely to be suitable for us.
In the event of cancellation Miggie will send an email to all those who have booked and update the details on the website. Please check the website on the morning of the activity in case of last minute cancellation. |
| Level of fitness required or any particular skills (you must satisfy yourself that you are physically able to participate in the activity). | If necessary, help will be available for carrying the kayaks (a short distance), getting in and out without getting our feet wet, and launching the kayaks. An everyday level of fitness and the ability to crouch down to get into the kayak should therefore be sufficient. |
| Personal medical conditions | If you have any medical conditions that might affect your ability to paddle then you should declare this to Sea Kayak Torbay on arrival. |
| COVID-19 | If you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID please let us know then stay at home and look after yourself. |
| Disclaimer | Please note that whilst the u3a organisers are concerned for everyone’s welfare, by taking part in this activity you should recognise that your safety is your own responsibility. |
| Appropriate clothing and footwear | Quick drying, weather and beach appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended. However, Sea Kayak Torbay do say this:
“We deliver tours all year round and offer oil skin thermal jackets with hoods and spray decks that attach to the boat so that you can stay completely dry and bring your normal day wear. We can even keep your feet dry if you step carefully out of the boat. Our staff will launch and land you!” |
| Storage of personal belongings | Dry Bags (free) and waterproof phone cases (£2 to hire) are available, as is a locked area where larger possessions can be stored.
We recommend that you do not take valuables to the beach. |
| Toilet / refreshment facilities | Toilets are near the entrance to the beach (cost 30p, using contactless payment).
There is a cafe on the beach. As stated above, we will be stopping for limited refreshments at the mid point. If you wish to take a drink or snack of your own choice please feel free to do so. (You may also wish to take hand sanitiser to clean up before eating.) |
| Risk assessment | A risk assessment has been conducted for this activity. It is recommended that you read this. Please find it here. |
Any questions? Just get in touch via email: adventure@u3a.dawlish.info.
Last updated 16/09/2026