There are plenty of fishermen's tales about The Bitches and it is rare for a first time Bitcher to come back having experienced what they were expecting. For those dragged along 'because it's good for you', eyes may still be out on stalks, whilst hardened big water paddlers maybe relieved at the lack of mermaids snatching at their decks.

Take time to understand what the water in Ramsey Sound is doing and how it will change over the few hours that you are there. As well as your usual paddling kit, make sure that you have:

First aid kit | Compass | Split paddle | Flares & whistle | Tow line | Water & energy food

Cutting corners on kit has left well-respected paddlers with epics on their hands. Mist and fog set in quickly, especially on days that are sunny and calm - in other words, ideal Bitching weather.

Accidents do happen. Leave word of where you are going and when you expect to get back with someone that cares!

Three is a safe minimum number of people to have in your group. If this is not possible, then try and hook up with others through the forum to arrange paddle out times together. With decent tides easy to predict, there are usually others doing the same.

Further advice. Unless you are paddling with others that know the water, and have experienced it under a range of conditions, it is worth considering hiring a guide for your first trip: it can save a lot of tears and they can teach you a lot about the place. Check out the guiding section for a list of local & regular paddlers that know the water and are prepared to look after others. Some will require some form of payment - but not always money ;-).