DavidJohn said..
Try soaking it in a bath.. Then with both ends ankered push and pull sideways where the join is to weaken the sand and salt that's causing it to jam.. Then try twisting with two people.. How are the joins locked? (push pins ?).. With all two piece paddles (and windsurfing masts) always seperate after use and try not to leave them joined overnight or longer periods.. You could also try a strap type oil filter tool to grip and twist without slipping like your hands do.. Good luck.. If you bring it to my place I'm happy to do it for you.
Thanks DJ, I attempted to seperate just as I came out of the water and it's a no twist handle piece so no chance of that. My wife is only 50kg so she cannot anchor herself enough so will need to wait until I get back from Noosa on the weekend.
this is my travel paddle only so all my others are fixed length, not a good ad for having one?