Cappoquin Paddle

We had been planning this paddle since before Xmas and finally the day has arrived. The plan is to meet in Youghal, ferry boats to Cappoquin and paddle down to just past Youghal bridge.
We made Youghal at about 9:30 and everyone changed into rivergear (except me) leaving dry gear in cars for collection at the end of the paddle. Racked 3 boats per car and travelled to Cappoquin. I changed into river gear and packed my clothes in dry bags in the boat. We were on the water at 10:50.
After paddling about an hour it became apparent that the biggest obstacle was the wind (F4/F5 Southerly blowing straight against us) and we had practically no assistance form the tide/current. We stopped for lunch just past Villierstown Castle at 1PM. At this point we had paddled 6miles with a further 7miles to go. The forecast indicated the winds would not abate in the afternoon but instead gust stronger. This would be hit and miss towards arriving in Youghal before dark so the decision was made to turn back. At least the strong wind would be at our backs and help us along.
Some nice river waves gave us time to practice our surfing skills! About a mile from Cappoquin the wind dropped and sit on tops had a fair struggle against the outgoing tide. Everyone made it ashore about 4:30 just as it was getting dark. I was the only one with dry gear to change into so we had people sitting in damp neoprene in the cars all the way back to Youghal.
Many lessons learnt today!