Sunday, November 17, 2013

Ecrehous Sovereignty

It was 60 years ago today, 17th November 1953, that the Sovereignty of both the Ecrehous and Minquiers was awarded to Jersey by the International Court of Justice.  These are two delightful reefs off the coast of Jersey.  The Minquiers, the larger of the reefs are approximately 12 miles south of the Island whilst the Ecrehous are about 5 miles north east of Jersey.
Both reefs are superb sea kayaking destinations But I can't help but wonder how different things might have been if sovereignty had been awarded to France, with all of the restrictions that have been placed on our sport by the French authorities over the years.
There was a half hearted attempt by a few renegade French men to invade the Ecrehous in the 1990's but that has faded away.  Today both these reefs remain as exceptional sea kayaking destinations for Jersey paddlers and visitors to the Island.
 Looking to the east, the French coast is just visible.
 Exploring the reef on delightful summers afternoon.
 Looking to the west.  Jersey is just visible.
Its days like this, which make the Ecrehous such a special place.
It is only when seen from the air that the full size of the Ecrehous reef can be appreciated.

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