Two weeks in, and I've rounded the southeastern corner of Ireland. Hook Head is behind me now, along with its famous lighthouse - one of the oldest working lighthouses in the world, guiding ships since the 12th century.
Morning Launch from Fethard
Launched early from Fethard-on-Sea to catch the tide. The forecast showed light winds and I wanted to make the most of it. This stretch of coast can be treacherous in bad weather.
The Lighthouse Appears
Rounding the headland, the distinctive black and white stripes of Hook Lighthouse came into view. I paddled close to shore, watching the waves crash against the rocks below. Monks built the first beacon here over 800 years ago - imagine their fires burning through stormy medieval nights.
Wildlife Encounter
Just past the lighthouse, I spotted what I thought was debris floating ahead. As I got closer, I realized it was a massive sunfish - maybe 5 feet across - basking at the surface. It was completely unbothered by my kayak, and I drifted alongside it for several minutes, amazed.
Making Progress
Ended the day at Dunmore East, 24 miles done. The harbor here is beautiful - fishing boats bobbing, painted houses climbing the cliff. A fisherman gave me some mackerel for dinner.
The south coast awaits tomorrow. I'm almost at the Celtic Sea.