On dry land that’s fairly easy but I’m convinced I’ll spend the majority of my time in an ice cold sea swallowing foam and being hit on the head by my board as I fall off it.

However, in little over an hour I’m in the “get set” position. Again, this is thanks to Ashleigh’s ability to communicate what I need to do in a language I understand – she tells me to think of it as attempting yoga positions. This works, and it clicks into place.

Despite a bellyful of seawater and cramp in my leg, I’m hooked and can see why people devote their lives to the activity. There’s the most amazing rush when you find yourself being carried along by a wave.

I’m reluctant to leave the sea but our lesson has ended and we’re heading off for lunch. This is one of the practicalities of having a Tuk Tuk, you can just hang wetsuits off the back of the vehicle and let the wind dry them out.

Multimedia

• Tuk Tuk Surf Safari

Cornwall delivers on the surf

They came for the waves but the Robinsons found plenty of other ways to enjoy a stay at the seaside

BACKGROUND

• Mums go surfing in Cornwall

• Surf's up... in Bournemouth

• Test bench: wetsuits

• Bringing a new surfboard back to the UK

• Surfing in northern Spain

Multimedia

• Tuk Tuk Surf Safari

Following a Sunday roast at The Phoenix, in Watergate Bay, we’re back in the Tuk Tuk and off to the beach for our kite surfing lesson. The amazing thing about surfing, I discover, is that you burn up so much energy that food is a necessity, so I don’t feel too guilty about the extra Yorkshire puddings.

Andy first shows Rachel and I how to handle the 1.8 metre kite. The kite lines are attached to a bar, which you steer rather like a car wheel, and once you get the hang of it you can then harness the wind to propel you along the sea.

It’s a powerful thrill, but unfortunately the surfing has taken its toll and I’m too tired to put this practice into action. I think I need to build up to a whole day of action sports.

Once again, we pack up and climb into the Tuk Tuk and as a perfect ending to a perfect day; Andy takes us to a monastery where, in the little church, we sit lit by candlelight listening to the melodic voices of the monks at evening song.

NEED TO KNOW

To book a Tuk Tuk Surf Safari - www.takeatuktuk.co.uk. A basic package costs £95pp with a minimum of four people booking. However, rates may increase depending upon any extra requirements.

Where to stay:

The Pearman's run an excellent B&B, Kernow Trek Lodge, with prices starting from £26pp including breakfast. Children under 14 are half price.

For more accommodation options in Newquay check out Times Online's recommendations.

Where to eat:

The Phoenix, in Watergate Bay (01637 860353) serves inexpensive but wholesome food with lunch costing around £10. Jamie Oliver has a branch of Fifteen in Watergate Bay (01637 861000) with lunch costing on average £40.

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