What this paddle is about
The West Coast Downwind Expedition takes paddlers into the remote, wild stretch of coast above Cape Town — Britannia Bay, St Helena Bay and Paternoster.
Long-period Atlantic swell, consistent south-easters and almost no other paddlers make this the most underrated downwind region in the country.
Your day on the water
Single-day groups meet at Britannia Bay for a briefing and shuttle to the upwind launch. Multi-day expeditions overnight in West Coast guesthouses with a fully supported van and trailer chasing the wind windows along the coast.
Every day is built around the forecast — when the south-easter is on, we launch and chase the runs. When it isn't, we paddle the bays, explore the coast and recover with West Coast seafood.
Expect long, clean ocean glides, empty horizons and the kind of remote-coast adventure that's almost impossible to find elsewhere.
Step by step on the water
- 1
Britannia Bay launch
Briefing, ski fit and shuttle to the upwind start.
- 2
Open Atlantic downwind
Long ocean glides into Britannia Bay or St Helena Bay.
- 3
Coastal exploration days
Paternoster bays, kelp lines and remote beaches.
- 4
Multi-day overnight stops
West Coast guesthouses with full van + trailer support.
Scenes from the ocean
Trip pricing
- Shared expeditionFrom R2,500 pp
- Premium private expeditionFrom R8,000 pp
Shuttle & transport
- Shared transfer from Cape TownR1,200 – R2,500 pp
- Private van + ski trailerR7,000 – R14,000
- Multi-day support vehicleR15,000 – R40,000
What's included
- Suitable kayak or surfski, paddle, PFD and leash — all necessary kayaking equipment is included in the advertised trip price
- Lead expedition guide and support driver
- Van and ski trailer support throughout
- PFD, leash, marine VHF and safety kit
- Daily briefings and on-water coaching
Not included
- Personal travel and watersports insurance
- Gratuities for your guide (optional)
- Meals outside what's listed as included
- Accommodation on multi-day expeditions (we'll book and quote separately)
Ocean conditions
Long-period Atlantic swell with 15–25 knot south-easter for the downwind days. Run only in safe windows.
Fitness requirements
Intermediate-to-advanced ocean paddler. Comfortable in open water, prior downwind experience, confident remount in chop.
Safety
- All trips led by an experienced ocean guide trained in sea rescue and first aid
- Live weather, wind and swell monitoring — trips are rescheduled if conditions aren't safe
- PFDs, leashes and marine VHF carried on every paddle
- Small group ratios with a guide who paddles alongside you the whole way
- Support van shadows the coast on every downwind day
- Marine VHF and full safety kit on every paddler
What to bring
- Swimwear, rash vest and quick-dry layer
- Cap, polarised sunglasses with strap, reef-safe sunscreen
- Light windbreaker for the boat or shuttle ride home
- Water bottle and a small dry bag (we can supply)
- Sense of adventure and a love for the ocean
Best time of year
November to March for the most consistent south-easter and warmest water. Multi-day expeditions are built around forecast windows.
Find the launch
West Coast Kayaking Expedition, answered
Ask about this trip
Send us your dates to check availability and discuss the forecast. Our team will reply as soon as possible.