26 February 2011

Alan Salazar, the kayaking instructor, was already there when I arrived at around 0700 hrs. So were some of the participants and Habagat staff. I have known Alan for quite some time now and his paddling experience more than speaks for itself. I was feeling really excited as I sat down next to Alan and he answered my inquiries about the activity for the day.

After preparing some equipment, we boarded cabs to go to Mactan Island. The access point was Queensland Resort, at Punta Engaño. We arrived there at 0847 hrs and waited for the other participants. I looked out into the sea and saw that the waves were still a bit calm but clouds were forming overhead.

At around 0900 hrs, Alan started giving instructions on Basic Kayaking. He described the parts of the kayak, the parts of the paddle, and the different kayaking strokes. We were assigned buddies because we were going to use sit-on-top recreational tandem kayaks, which were perfect for beginners. Then, we were given personal flotation devices which, Alan said, were important to have on kayaking trips.

We went into the water and Alan taught us how to roll the kayak over (in case it capsizes) and how to re-enter the kayak. I fell into the water on my second attempt at re-entry and got a bit disoriented. We were also given time to practice the different strokes, how to steer, and to get to know our buddies.

After a few minutes, we started paddling out. Our destination was Rock Island, and I could already hear some of the participants complaining in jest about the distance. Earlier, we had agreed to pitch in some cash for our lunch: lechon manok (roasted chicken) and puso (rice wrapped in coconut leaves). I think everyone was, at that point, already looking forward to the midday meal.

The waves were still somewhat calm, and paddling was quite easy as we were going downwind. We were instructed to stay within a few kilometers from the shore but, at some points, the waves and our inexperience took us a bit farther out.

We passed by resorts that most of us have never seen before from this angle. Some people in jet skis and banana boats waved at us. They were, perhaps, amazed at the sight of 17 people – on 9 kayaks – paddling their hearts out. Alan, alone in his kayak, was checking on us every now and then; sometimes taking the lead, sometimes playing the role of sweeper – the one behind everyone else.

At 1141 hrs, we stopped at a small, empty cove to have lunch. We secured the kayaks and did some exercises to relax our muscles. After getting permission from a security officer to use the premises, we sat down under a tree. The chicken and rice were in plastic bags, which we laid on the ground. Everyone gathered around and dug in. Those who had packed lunch shared their food. Alan told us stories about his other trips, like participating in the Friendship Kayak of 2009, and a few more tips on kayaking; while others jokingly suggested that instead of paddling on to Rock Island, we should just head back to Queensland.

After having lunch, some of us went swimming while others stayed behind, under the tree, relaxing and taking in the view. The water was so clear and cool, and the Sun was shining brightly. There was a breeze blowing in from the North Eastern side, and a couple of seagulls were flying above us. Alan told us more stories and was already planning the details for the next kayaking course.

We cleaned up after ourselves and -- adhering to the L.N.T. Code -- made sure that nothing was left behind; put on our PFDs and packed our gear; and, as everyone had voted for it, started to paddle towards Rock Island.

After paddling for a total of 4.25 kilometers from Queensland, we finally arrived at Rock Island at 1315 hrs. It was a majestic place! There were about three or four big rock formations jutting out from the waters. The plants and grass made them look like jade jewels on a big blue plate. We stopped to take photographs and to swim. We decided to stay for a bit to give ourselves time to rest and prepare for the trip back as we would be going windward and the waves were starting to get a bit rough.

While I was swimming, I noticed that although the water was very clear, it smelled and tasted different. I inquired about it and learnt that a hotel-resort nearby had had a leaking pipeline that contaminated the water in this area. It made me feel angry and sad that people who were earning lots of money from this place are not even taking care of it.

At 1430 hrs, we started paddling back to Queensland. Along the way, the waves were big at most points. White caps started to appear everywhere, which made it hard to stay close to the shore.

The wind got stronger, the sky and the waters got really dark, and we encountered intermittent showers. I could see that all of us were trying to gain speed as we were expecting the showers to get heavier. Our group was scattered, with each pair trying their best not to be overcome by the waves. Deep in my heart, panic had started to creep in but I tried to relax and focus on paddling as properly and as quickly as possible.

My paddling partner and I got back to the access point at 1509 hrs. Some pairs were already there and some arrived a bit later. We took showers, changed into dry clothes, and exchanged stories about our way back. Some were showing off where they got sun-burnt and some partook of the leftovers from lunch. Everyone was obviously happy about the whole experience and was looking forward to paddling again.

At 1545 hrs, we were awarded our certificates for the course. After taking photographs, we parted ways - bidding everyone farewell, and hoping to see each other again soon.

When I got home, I was very exhausted but extremely happy. We paddled a total of 8.5 kilometers and got to experience varying wind and wave conditions. It was priceless and the best thing about it was that I learnt a lot of new things. I cannot wait for the next course, where we would paddle all the way from Mactan Island to Olango Island.