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Leave the Bitches knowing you've still got some strength left as the worst is saved until last. Smack
in the middle of your return journey is Horse Rock, a cathedral sized spire of granite under the water. The sea bed here
decreases in depth from 66 to 0 metres in under half a mile, and the water is thrown into a series of heavy waves
and whirlpools. This is believed to be the site of the only kayak related death in Ramsey Sound.
To get back from the Bitches, eddy hop to the last rock (which will be considerably smaller than on the way out). From here punch
into the current aiming directly for the far side; the water will be rough but there are often surf waves to help.
Soon there is calm, smoother water. DO NOT RELAX. This calm water flows straight over Horse Rock 800 metres
on your left (north hopefully!). Turn the revs up and keep track of your sideways motion by spotting transits on
the land. There is no need to pick a ferry glide angle, just paddle like fury! Horse Rock will pass at quite close quarters, and close enough to appreciate its power. Once past, slow down,
as paddling too far toward land will put you
back into the St Justinian’s eddy and travelling the wrong way. Instead aim for the cliffs 400 meters west (left)
of the lifeboat house. Just as they approach, a ‘conveyer belt’ eddy pushes back towards the harbour. Get out
and run up the steps with your kayak to straighten your legs out.
You can also finish by paddling back to Whitesands Beach - knackering in a play boat - or carry your boat over the Bitches and paddle
back upstream to ferry glide above the narrows or simply sit it out in Ramsey Island's harbour until the current slackens.
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