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Expedition Outline

The fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar holds a profound fascination for all lovers of nature’s variety. Madagascar broke away from continental Africa 65 million years ago, isolating its flora and fauna, so that now its wildlife is predominantly unique. All the island’s mammals, 225 of its 257 reptile species and almost 80 per cent of its plants are endemic; that is, to be found nowhere else on Earth.

Phil and Simon hope to be the first people to circumnavigate Madagascar by sea kayak.  This is set to be their greatest challenge yet.   The expedition has been split into two legs due to visa and work restraints.  Climate, surf and wildlife are some of the main obstacles that they will face along the way.  The experience they have, both gained on their previous expeditions, will be vital.

Although the east coast will be a challenge with its surf there will be a lot of paddling along beautiful coral reefs and deserted sandy beaches.  Sections of the expedition will take them into very remote areas with very little fresh water.  For these sections they will have to rely on carrying enough food and water to be self sufficient.

Expedition members

Phil Clegg Works as an instructor for Sea Kayaking UK in Holyhead. He is an experienced river, sea and surf kayaker throughout the UK and abroad.  In 2005 he was part of a 3 man team that circumnavigated Great Britain in 80 days, knocking 6 days of the record.  In 2006 he kayaked along the east coast of Greenland as part of a team. This is one of the most inhospitable coastlines in the world and is exposed to considerable risk from strong and unpredictable wind and weather conditions.

Simon Osborne with Jeff Allen runs Sea Kayaking Cornwall.  He is also an experienced river, sea and surf kayaker.  In 2002 he completed a circumnavigation of Great Britain and in 2004 he completed a solo circumnavigation of Ireland.  Both expeditions raised money for the Leukaemia Research Fund in memory of his brother Mark.

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