After a successful run, an exhibition celebrating the 40th anniversary of Scotland’s first major sea kayaking expedition, enters its final fortnight at the Scottish Maritime Museum on Irvine Harbourside and closes with a talk and tour with expedition leader Jim Breen.
‘Into the Maelstrom: The Scottish Kayak Expedition to North West Norway 1980’, which closes on Monday 30 August, charts the story of Jim Breen, Angus Mathieson, Bill Turnbull and Peter Wilson. Together, they paddled 394 miles (634 kilometres) as they circumnavigated the two island groups of Lofoten and Vesterålen in North West Norway, 200 miles within the Arctic Circle.
During the 28 day expedition, the team also successfully achieved the first ever crossing of one of the world’s largest whirlpools, the ‘Maelstrom’ or, as it is sometimes known, the ‘Moskenstraumen’.
Exhibition highlights include two of the four ‘Baidarka Explorer’ kayaks, equipment, clothing, expedition photographs and 8mm film footage and archive news.
The special evening with expedition leader Jim Breen takes place at 5.45pm– 7.15pm on Thursday 26 August.
Jim will give the inside track on the adventure, describing how the four friends battled food poisoning, a heatwave and severe magnetic anomalies.
There will also be an opportunity to ask Jim questions about expedition as well as time to explore the exhibition independently.
Nicola Scott, Exhibitions and Events Officer at the Scottish Maritime Museum, says:
The story of the Scottish Kayak Expedition to North West Norway in 1980 is an exciting story of adventure and gritty determination. It is a fascinating tale for all ages and the exhibition and Jim’s talk are not to be missed!”
‘Into the Maelstrom: The Scottish Kayak Expedition to North West Norway 1980’ is open daily, 10am to 5pm until Monday 30 August.
Tickets for ‘Into the Maelstrom’ with Jim Breen on Thursday 26 August cost £5.
Spaces are limited so visitors are advised to book now to avoid disappointment.
To buy tickets, please visit: www.scottishmaritimemuseum.org
The exhibition is included in Museum admission. Up to three children go FREE with each Adult Admission.
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Issued on behalf of the Scottish Maritime Museum by
Joanna Harrison, Mobile: 07884 187404.
