Paddle to Getafe
If I was not tasked to take photos for this assignment, I would gladly put it aside and paddle happily through these waters. It was obvious from the curious stares and waves of the community children to call our attention that people paddling these waters are not common. The waters, shielded by mangroves remains calm and gently stirred By the residual waves from outside. There are pockets of tranquility within these natural walls of nature.
Once we made exit south of the island, I had the chance to do some actual paddling. We paddled towards the mainland with the lighthouse as our guide. There were portions on the nearby island where the current pulls our kayak closer to shore but still, Buzzy, seemed to be remain unfazed on his paddle board While we paddled wildly back to course. Two hours later, about 8km further, we have reached the mainland of Getafe. It was a feat that seemed impossible at first but Buzzy had a certain way of motivating people. To go beyond the barriers in their mind and challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.
At Getafe, we had ample time to rest while we wait for our transportation to arrive. The missing outrigger boat also arrived shortly when we got on shore. And just in time as our van came, a warm sunset bid us goodbye.
Essential Info
The Banacon Island Mangrove Sanctuary Paddling Tour can be booked through IslandBuzz Kayaking and Stand Up Paddle Tours. The 8km, whole-day tour is available year-round for Php 4,900 per person for a minimum of 2 persons and a maximum of 10 persons for a group.
Contact Buzzy Budlong at [email protected] or call +639275683799. Visit www.islandbuzzsupandkayak.com.
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.
