Sunday, March 23, 2008
Kayaking Expedition No. 1

Bryan, Leon and I decided to kayak on a Saturday morning. Initially, we intended to kayak to Seletar Camp, but with only 4 hours to spare, the time needed to travel there could well take a whole day just to get there. So after some advice from the experienced kayakers in the office, we have decided to go to Puggol Jetty instead. The total package (kayak (4 hours) + splay cover) was about $11. So with eager spirit, we headed for the sea and started paddling northwards.

The going there was a lot tougher than the way back, simply because we were always anticipating when we could finally reach our destination. It could also hav been the fact that we were quite close to the shore, and with every wave pushing us closer to it, we need the extra effort to push ourselves out of there.

Along the way, we stumbled upon Coney Island, the so called only "natural beach" found in Singapore. When we were there, it was rather disappointing. With litter all over the place from the Malaysian Port, and with the facilities not being well-maintained, we were contemplating whether if Mas Selamat could have camped on this super deserted island. It could well be a perfect hiding spot as there was no way of getting in other than by kayak or by boat.

We finally managed to reach the jetty at 11.30am. And boy were we relive to see it. Grabbing the only bottle I have, I decided to ask the police coast guard whether if they have any water to spare. AND THEY TOLD ME THEY WERE NOT ALLOWED TO GIVE US ANY WATER... That really stunned me. I mean, if they were police officers, shouldnt they be helping the citizens of singapore? I wasnt asking a Mac Donald's meal or a ride home, it was one of the most essential things for survival; water, and they gave a glaring stare at me, like as if I could well have been Mas Selamat. (well, I did look tanner, but thats besides the point :D) But I thank God water was provided for us and we werent as parched on the way back.

The trip had been a great experience. Being our first expedition, it really could tell how much we can handle. Our next expedition could well take place in the week to come, and our next destination would be to Changi Sea Sports Club, or even somewhere more exotic? Who knows what the future lie ahead of us..