I R E L A N DAN UNFORGETTABLE SEA KAYAKING ADVENTURE

AUGUST 9-16 Guided by Marc Bourgoin and Scott LeightonExpedition grade: Advanced

Our goal is to experience local culture and paddle a stretch of coastal water from Crohy Heady to Bloody Foreland, County Donegal. A land of craggy headlands and peet bogs seemingly fi t only for the sheep that graze it. Barren of trees indeed, and yet its “Emerald Isle” nickname is well deserved. Stunningly cloaked in green so fresh and vibrant, it may well be unique to the entire planet.

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This expedition takes us to the northern most county in Ireland, an area that’s teeming with stunning beauty by land or sea. The terrain and climate have much in common with the Scottish highlands, featuring several magnificent barren inland mountains. In bearing the full impact of the North Atlantic, the northwest coast has been worn into jagged bays and rugged peninsulas. Raw elements and time have forged remarkable coastal features into the isle over thousands of years and we sea-goers will be completely enthralled as we thread our way between giant seastacks, explore sea caves, float in the shadow of windswept cliffs and seek respite on white sandy beaches, which many call “the prettiest of all of Europe”.

The local ecology is rich with impressive geological features, as well as an abundance of diverse wildlife. Local marine animal species run the gamut from gigantic grey seals to a bevy of seabirds not often seen here in the States. For some of us, the human history aspect of the trip may be the most poignant. We will be witness to faded vestiges of settlements that once occupied many of the small islands we intend to visit. We can only imagine the once healthy, active and prosperous communities that ultimately would feel the impact of declining economic times and the social appeal of mainland urbanization that, one by one, lured the youth off the islands, and shrunk communities to unsustainable levels.

This trip is designed for participants with previous multi-day paddling and camping experience. Participants should consider themselves intermediate paddlers. One is not required to know how to roll a kayak or display proficiency in many strokes; but the right participants will have had previous opportunities to test their stamina and endurance and is looking forward to a physical challenge. This coastline, in unfavorable conditions, can be fairly treacherous, and participants should be prepared for possible adversity; be it inclement weather, choppy sea conditions, or simply the exploratory challenges we will face as a group.

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MEET YOUR GUIDES

MARC A BOURGOIN is a Maine native and is referred to, by those closest to him, as “the genuine article”. His passion for paddling knows no bounds. Marc has developed an ardent love of education in the outdoors through 25 formative years of leading wilderness expeditions as well as teaching and coaching alpine ski racing. For 10 years he taught environmental education and lead expeditions for the Chewonki Foundation in Wiscasset, Maine. In 1997 he formed Compass Rose Expeditions to lead personal clients around the world. He has experience leading expeditions in Thailand, Ireland, Canada, Southern Chile, The Great Lakes, and of course, the Coast of Maine. Most recently Marc’s focus has been on developing Lincoln’s mission to which includes sales, manufacturing, expeditioning and spending time with his family in Kittery Point, Maine

SCOTT LEIGHTON can best be described as a father, husband, outdoor enthusiast and adventure traveler. As a Maine native, Scott feels fortunate to have been born and raised in such a truly special place. As a professional sea kayak guide and former co-owner of Excursions, a guiding and outfitting company specializing in sea kayaking instruction and multi-day expeditions, Scott has lead trips to explore coastlines and interior waters of both foreign and familiar destinations including Southern Chile, Argentina, Ireland, Belize, Guatemala, Panama, Atlantic Canada, California, and of course his beloved coast of Maine. Beyond his passion for paddling, Scott is also a Board Certified Medical illustrator holding a position with the New England Journal of Medicine as well as founder and principal of Medicus Media, a biomedical illustration studio. When not immersed in exploring coastlines and landscapes from a boat, Scott can be found spending time and being active with his wife and three daughters at their home in Eliot, Maine.

MARC AND SCOTT are thrilled to be leading yet another adventure. Both guides seek the most out of every day and believe it is an absolute priviledge to be leading this trip in such a beautiful place in the world. Together they are many things — Funny, passionate, talented and sincere just scratches the surface. Marc and Scott have known each other for many years and their strong, enduring friendship make them the ultimate guiding team. If you have been thinking about seeing Ireland’s coast by kayak, don’t pass this up! There are very few guides who will provide a comparable experience. On the last day, when you’re enjoying a much deserved pint at Leo’s, you’ll be glad you picked these two to lead you on this very special adventure.

LINCOLN OUTDOOR CENTER INTERNATIONAL EXPEDITIONS