A Magical Day at Paddle Fest in Liverpool Marina 27.04.2025

Written by Elena Bejenaru

A day filled with sunshine, calm waters, dear friends, and the pure joy of paddling. Paddle Fest Day at Liverpool Marina was a celebration of connection, learning, and gratitude, a memory I’ll carry in my heart for a long time.

Liverpool Caiac Club

Greatest of the day

This is how I felt about, and how I enjoyed

This beautiful day began with a peaceful coffee in the garden, enjoying the stillness of the morning. After a light breakfast, I geared up, my heart full of excitement, ready for an adventure I had been looking forward to for weeks: participating in the annual Paddle Fest Day at Liverpool Marina.

At nine o’clock, Otilia kindly drove us to the marina. Unfortunately, she couldn’t stay with us due to an unexpected situation, but we felt her support and encouragement as we arrived.

As soon as I reached the kayak club, my heart raced with joy, I ran towards Jackie, a dear friend I hadn’t seen in a long time, and hugged her tightly. Seeing us, Gill got emotional and started crying tears of happiness. It was such a heartfelt reunion, a moment that filled the air with pure warmth and love.

I then hurried to greet David and Alan, our group leaders and old friends with whom I had shared memorable adventures on the water.

After slipping into my gear, I chose to paddle in a sea kayak. I joined the group led by Ian and Kevin, who were both wonderful, patient instructors.

The sea kayak, longer and incredibly stable, gave me the sensation of gliding effortlessly across the water. The surface of the marina was as calm as a mirror, with only gentle ripples created by tourist boats passing nearby.

We played games, practised paddling techniques, and I learned how to slalom and turn my kayak more efficiently.

Kevin pointed out that I had a lot of strength but was wasting much of it because I didn’t know how to control it properly. I laughed and told him honestly that I would love to learn to channel it better.

Meanwhile, David helped Gill gain more confidence, guiding her along the edge of the marina, showing her how to enjoy the experience safely and at her own pace.

After the first session, I switched to an even longer kayak and set off again, filled with even more enthusiasm and joy. I felt more and more connected to the kayak, to the water, to the moment.

The highlight of the day was the final race with all participants!

Kevin continued to guide me, encouraging me to use the lower part of my body more and not to rely only on my arms. Following his advice made a huge difference — I paddled stronger, steadier, and more efficiently.

I proudly finished the course without tipping over or bumping into anyone else — a small personal victory that filled me with pride and gratitude.

The atmosphere throughout the day was absolutely magical.

Children, adults, and seniors, all sharing the same space, the same joy, the same excitement — laughter echoed across the calm waters, lifting everyone’s spirits and creating a beautiful sense of community.

About Liverpool Marina and Paddle Fest Day

Liverpool Marina, located in the heart of the city, is a vibrant hub for water sports enthusiasts.

With direct access to the historic docks and the River Mersey, it offers the perfect setting for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The marina’s calm waters and welcoming facilities make it a favourite spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Paddle Fest Day is a beloved annual event celebrating the joy of paddling, community spirit, and a shared love for the water.

It offers a variety of sessions, from beginner lessons to fun races and games, all designed to bring people together in a relaxed, supportive environment.

This year’s event was exceptionally well organized by Keith and the entire team.

I feel incredibly grateful for the immense effort, care, and attention to detail they put into making everything run smoothly.

Every participant — whether it was their first time holding a paddle or they were seasoned kayakers, felt seen, supported, and celebrated.

Ending a Perfect Day

After a full and unforgettable day on the water, Gill and I treated ourselves to a well-deserved meal and a cold beer, laughing and sharing photos that captured the magic of the day.

Later, I returned home, took a refreshing nap, and then headed out with Stella to the park, where I continued practising my cycling skills — getting ready for future adventures!

It was truly one of those days that leave a lasting imprint on your soul — a day filled with friendship, learning, gratitude, and joy.

I feel deeply thankful for every smile, every splash, every moment of connection we shared at Paddle Fest Day in Liverpool Marina.😇

Thank you Gill, Jackie, David (you saved my day)❤️

Thank you Ian and Kevin for two amazing sessions with sea kayak coaching 🙏🏻

Thank you Keith and LCC👏🏻

I’m looking forward for the next one.🤩