We wondered if he was going to jump over after it, but he waited. Soon a couple more guys came up and began discussing who was getting in.
Finally, one climbed over the chain. "I'll do it."
The others looked relieved but acted like they were disappointed. "You sure, man?" "If you'd rather stay here..."
The brave one managed to get in without capsizing and pushed off the pier footings. You can just see the nose of the kayak here over the pier railing.
Soon he paddled away without mishap. Don't know where he was headed. Don't know why they didn't launch off the beach. In fact, I don't know a lot about what was going on!
Hope it ended well for all concerned. There are sharks in these waters.
We walked back home.