About this Event
The Karame
We will walk roughly south, past the iconic structure that is Seymour Tower, and out into the wilderness of the outer rocky intertidal, as far as it is possible to safely walk offshore, during one of the lowest tides of the year. This is one place that very few people go, except low water fishermen.
Seymour Tower stands like a sentinel above the relatively flat terrain which surrounds it, within the RAMSAR Site, which is an internationally recognised and protected wetland, extending along the south east coast from La Collette in the west to Gorey in the east of the island of Jersey.
The Karame is a beacon that warns shipping of the shallow, and dangerous reef of the Violet Bank, around it. It is not the most remarkable landmark, and will not be visible until we pass Seymour Tower, however its purpose is vital for keeping mariners safe.
Enjoy the quietude as we walk away from the shore and into the massive expanse of the rocky intertidal. Under big sky, apart from crunching of the turf underfoot to mark our passage, and punctuated by the cries of sea birds, it is a wild place where the sounds of the natural world becomes louder than the noise created by humans.
Accessible on foot at most low tides, it is not a place to be caught out by the rising tide. Due to the topography of the area, the rising sea can easily encircle the inexperienced or unwary walker or low water fisherman, and strong tidal currents can make this area treacherous. Every year people are rescued after finding themselves cut-off.
What to expect
This walk is not suitable for children. A good level of fitness and an ability to maintain a good walking pace for several hours over moderate terrain is required. Be prepared to get your feet wet as we might need to wade through knee deep water, and we will be walking over uneven and possibly slippery surfaces, including sand, gravel and rocks.
Change your perspective of the beach, and discover some of the superbly adapted organisms that thrive in the area, despite being left behind by the tide.
Protection of Flora and Fauna
The intertidal zone is a diverse and fragile environment, and we must do all we can to minimise the effect we have on this protected ecology if we want to protect it for future generations. By joining this walk, you are agreeing to abide by some basic guidelines: to walk with care and watch where you put you feet; to be gentle with any creatures that live in the intertidal, in and on the seabed and on or under rocks, and if you handle them do so with wet hands; to replace and rock and seaweed that may be lifted while exploring; and to be quiet and not disturb any resting seabirds or marine wildlife.
We all have a duty of care to protect this unique environment and limit the damage we cause, or allow to be caused by our actions. Please do not litter, and no dogs are permitted.
Safety Guidance
To participate in this walk, you will need to be reasonable fit, able to walk unassisted for several hours and prepared to be responsible for your own safety. This walk is not suitable for children. I carry a First Aid Kit and the Coastguard will be informed when we start and finish the walk.
Snacks and hydration
This walk is several hours long, so please bring snacks and hydrating liquid, especially if the weather is forecast to be warm. We will stop at the tower, weather permitting, for a break on the way back from the Karame. Please hold onto any packaging, and dispose of it appropriately when we return to shore.
Clothing and footwear
Dress in layers, appropriate for the weather. We will be exposed to elements during the walk, and it may be chilly if it is windy. Wear wellies or other sturdy footwear that you don't mind getting wet. Be prepared to walk through water, and bring hiking poles or sticks if you use them.
Potential hazards
Please arrive 10 - 15 minutes early, so that we can leave on time.
The surface is uneven and at times soft. There will be rocks, sand and gravel underfoot and seaweed which can be slippery. We may also encounter creatures that bite, sting or pinch as we explore, so avoid handling them where possible. There may be shallow standing water and streams, and at times may need to wade through water.
The steps at Seymour Tower are steep and quite narrow, so please take care when ascending and descending.
Parking, bus route and public amenities
Limited parking is usually available in a small public car park and on the slipway opposite Seymour Pub, but there are no public amenities. The nearest public toilets are at Gorey Common or La Rocque.
Liberty Bus route No 1 stops at the top of the slip on the way to St Helier, or on towards Gorey from outside Seymour Pub, approximately every 15 - 20 minutes.
Disclaimer
Your participation in the walk is at your own risk and I shall not be held liable under any circumstances for any matter arising out of your participation. I accept no responsibility or liability for loss, damage or injury, other than for matters which I am not legally able to exclude or limit liability, and I am insured for this activity.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Seymour Slip, Seymour Slip, St Helier, Jersey
GBP 30.00