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Sea Kayak Chesapeake Bay Maryland Virginia Delaware if (document.all)document.onmousedown=norightclickelse if (document.getElementById)document.onmouseup=norightclick  HomeIndexThe Bay What's New Trip Logs WeatherLaunch RampsEventsForumMediaLinksYouTubeHow ToSearch/************************************************ Floating Iframe script- © Dynamic Drive DHTML code library (www.dynamicdrive.com)* Visit http://www.dynamicDrive.com for hundreds of DHTML scripts* This notice must stay intact for legal use* Modified by Hank McComas***********************************************///Specify iframe to display. Change src and other attributes except "position" and "left/top":var iframetag=''//specify x coordinates of iframe ("right" for right corner, or a pixel number (ie: "20px")):var masterdivleft="-333px"//specify y coordinates of iframe ("bottom" for bottom of page, or a pixel number (ie: "20px")):var masterdivtop="150px"var ie=(document.all || window.opera) && document.getElementByIdvar iebody=(document.compatMode=="CSS1Compat")? document.documentElement : document.bodyif (ie)document.write(iframetag)function positionit(){masterdivobj=document.getElementById("masterdiv")bookdivobj=document.getElementById("bookdiv")var window_width=ie && !window.opera? iebody.clientWidth : window.innerWidth-20window_height=ie && !window.opera? iebody.clientHeight : window.innerHeightvar dsocleft=ie? iebody.scrollLeft : pageXOffsetvar masterdivwidth=masterdivobj.widthmasterdivheight=masterdivobj.heightmasterdivobj.style.left=(masterdivleft=="right")? window_width-masterdivwidth-20 : masterdivleftsetInterval("repositionit()", 3000)}function revealit(){masterdivobj.style.left=0}function repositionit(){if (ie){dsoctop=ie? iebody.scrollTop : pageYOffsetmasterdivobj.style.top=(masterdivtop=="bottom")? window_height-masterdivheight-14+dsoctop : parseInt(masterdivtop)+dsoctop}}if (window.attachEvent)window.attachEvent("onload", positionit) North Point to Rock HAllAdded 09/05/2008 Sandy PointAdded 08/10/2008 Thomas PointAdded 08/10/2008 Exuma Islands, The BahamasAdded 03/21/2008 Chile PatagoniaAdded 02/21/2008 John Pennekamp State ParkAdded 12/31/2007 Biscayne National ParkAdded 12/18/2007 Tangier SoundAdded 11/01/2007Sea Kayak Chesapeake Bay Sea kayak trip reports, techniques, tides, weather and general information on sea kayaking Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Delaware. Sea kayak trip reports on Baja, Greenland, Utah and Florida. "You're just jealous because the voices only talk to me."UnknownTrip Reports - reports on sea kayak trips, including descriptions, pictures and resources. Basic Topics - information on terminology, types of sea kayaks, sea kayak dynamics, strokes, bracing, and rescues, sources of training and instruction.Intermediate Topics - self assessment, camping, surfing, towing and sea kayak packing techniquesAdvanced Topics - topics of interest to advanced paddlersSafety - sea kayaks are generally safe but present varied potential dangers. Knowledge, preparation and practice can lessen these objective dangers.Resources - digitized charts, electronic versions of piloting manuals, tides, tidal currents, weather forecasts, water quality etc.Equipment Reviews - down to earth reviews of various equipment as used by avid kayakers on a regular basis.Media and Movies - Movies made from pictures taken on trips, picture themes and miscellaneous media tidbits.A Tour Around Chesapeake Bay - characterizes and gives the flavor of each region of the Chesapeake Bay and introduces some of the sea kayak opportunites available.History of the Chesapeake Bay - the Chesapeake Bay was an important region in the European settlement of North America and the early development of the United States of America. Training Topics - training topics for those interested in teaching kayaking to othersMiscellaneous - miscellaneous information of use or interest to kayakers that didn't fit in any other categoryLand Adventures - Even kayakers get out to stretch their legs every once in a while. Here are some of our land adventures. .addthis_pub = 'hmccomas'; Report problems with this site to  Link to UsWatch the latest videos on YouTube.com XTract-D ReviewAdded 06/30 Spray Skirt ReviewAdded 12/16/2007 Down the Chesapeake - 316 miles Baja - 140 milesBahia Conception to Loreto Islands Lake Powell - 700 Miles Georgian Bay - 165 Miles Vancouver IslandEVEN THE BEST BOATERS CAN FIND THEMSELVES IN SERIOUS TROUBLE ON THE MILDEST OF DAYS IN THE OCEAN. PLEASE BE AWARE THAT EACH BOATER TAKES FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR HIS OR HER OWN SAFETY, AND IS TOTALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSESSING THE DANGER LEVEL AND ACCEPTING THE CONSEQUENCES OF PARTICIPATING IN THIS SPORT . Copyright 2008,2007,2006,2005,2004,2003,2002,2001S_uacct = "UA-2738909-1";urchinTracker();SITE MAP kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/75725F41C633A43385256A640052D429">Sea Kayak Chesapeake Bay</a>] - A resource for ">Sea Kayak Chesapeake Bay - A resource for individuals and groups interested in sea kayaking with a focus on the Chesapeake Bay.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/22AA9E20E30450F685256B4600563764" Title='Click to open this page'>01 - A Tour aro">01 - A Tour around the Chesapeake Bay - The Bay is often divided into three regions, the Upper Bay, from the Susquehanna River and the Flats to the Bay Bridge, the Middle Bay from the Bay Bridge to the mouth of the Potomac, and the Lower Bay, from the Potomac to the Atlantic Ocean. Each has its own unique character.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/ABAC1FAD327FB49085256B46006058C4" Title='Click to open this page'>01 - Upper Ches">01 - Upper Chesapeake Bay - The Upper Chesapeake from the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake and Delaware canal to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is characterized by fresh water and high banks of long narrow rivers lined with hard wood trees. Human impacts and development around Baltimore, Baltimore Harbor, government facilities at Aberdeen Proving Ground, and rural agriculture transitioning to higher density housing along the waterfront contribute to varied and interesting area for kayak exploration.01 - Safe Harbor Petroglyphs - On the lower Susquehanna, just below Safe Harbor Dam, the rocks whisper stories of the people of this land. Rock art of long ago generations still survives. Will it survive for the generations of the future? 02 - Havre de Grace - Gateway to the Chesapeake - Havre de Grace sits at the mouth of the Susquehanna River at the start of the Chesapeake Bay. With a long Colonial history, it played a role in both political and economic development of the United States.03 -Tolchester Beach - With the advent of steamship routes on the Chesapeake Bay, Tolchester Beach in Kent Co., Md. became a favorite destination for Baltimoreans, 27 miles across the bay. After the 1880s, as steamship travel became more popular, improvements were made to the park, and eventually there were hotels, restaurants, and facilities for games, picnics, horse-racing, etc. An amusement park featured a merry-go-round and roller coaster, with games including a shooting range and tenpin bowling alley. Other activities were bathing and crabbing. 04 - Principio Furnace - The Principio Furnace, Maryland's first iron worksd, was established in 1719 in Cecil County and consumed 10,000 acres of woodland during its 100 years of operation.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/8991D3C44981C9B385256B71005757F7" Title='Click to open this page'>05 - Baltimore ">05 - Baltimore and the Patapsco River - Baltimore sits at the head of the Patapsco River. Home of the Star Spangled Banner, the first railroad in the United States and gateway for the grain and coal from the Appalachian mountains and Ohio valleys, Baltimore has transitioned from a heavy industrial base to a balanced economy. Baltimore's past and its future can be seen from the waters of the Potapsco and its tributaries.01 - Baltimore Firsts - Maryland Jockey Club and horse racing - Maryland has a long tradition in horse racing. Home to the first professional sports organization, the Maryland Jockey Club, it hosts the middle jewel of racing's triple crown, the Preakness.03 - Baltimore Firsts - Balloon ascension - Although Kitty Hawk has been immortalized as the site of the first powered flight, the first manned aircraft flight in America actually happened on the outskirts of Baltimore, MD.04 - Baltimore Firsts - Oldest surviving American Silverware maker - In 1815 Samuel Kirk started what was to become the longest lasting silversmith in America.Baltimore Clippers - Pirates of the Chesapeake - During the War of 1812, Baltimore was referred to a "nest of pirates" by the British whose commercial shipping was repeatedly attacked by the swift and daring privateers sailing under a "Letter of Marquee" from the infant United States of America.Fort McHenry - Fort McHenry, a star shaped fort guarding Baltimore harbor, withstood the British naval bombardment on September 13th, 1814 and inspired the poetry that became the words to our National Anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner".06 - Chestertown - Royal Port City - Chestertown sits on the northern bank of the Chester River, a deep and well positioned port for the lucrative shipping of tobacco, slaves and grain from the surrounding productive fields. Chestertown became a center for shipping and commerce second only to Annapolis in colonial Maryland.09 - Chesapeake Bay Bridge Walk - The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Walk crosses the 4.3 mile distance from Sandy Point between Annapolis and Baltimore to Kent Island. The double roadway elevated 5 lane highway has two spans that allow large ships to pass underneath. The bridge marks the unofficial boundary of the upper and middle Chesapeake Bay.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/032035D6416E658285256C180041ABC7" Title='Click to open this page'>02 - Middle Che">02 - Middle Chesapeake Bay - The Middle Chesapeake Bay, from the Bay Bridge to the mouth of the Potomac, is characterized by the mixture of fresh water from the Susquehanna and Potomac Rivers and the salt water from the Atlantic Ocean. Eastern Shore rivers are languid, tidal rivers extending far into the flat farming lands of the DelMarVa penninsula. The Western Shore has higher banks and long stretches with significant rivers.Annapolis - Home of the State Capitol, St. John's College and the US Naval Academy, Annapolis has a long and proud maritime history. Known as "The Sailing Capital of the World", this beautiful colonial style city sits at the mouth of the Severn River on the western shore just south of the Chesapeake Bay bridge. Brown Pelicans - The once endangered Brown Pelican is regaining its numbers. The northernmost colony of brown pelicans now calls Barren Island their new home.Calvert Cliffs - The 100 foot white bluffs of Calvert Cliffs extend for more than 30 miles along the Chesapeake Bay. Located on the western shore just after the entrance of the Potomac River into the Chesapeake, the 15 million year old sediments in these cliffs were formed in a shallow sea. They contain fossils from over 600 species. mostly sharksKent Island and the Chesapeake Exploration Center - The Chesapeake Exploration Center is the gateway to Queen Anne's County, the Eastern Shore, and the Chesapeake Bay Region. The center features an interactive exhibit that explores man's close relationship with the rich natural environment of the Bay region, and considers how that relationship has shaped the area's cultural history.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/FCB14E120E017CF985256C180042DA14" Title='Click to open this page'>03 - Lower Ches">03 - Lower Chesapeake Bay - The Lower Chesapeake Bay from the Potomac to Capes Charles and Henry is the final mixing area of the Chesapeake Bay estuary where the Bay finally meets the open Atlantic ocean.Assateague Island - Assateague Island is an Atlantic barrier island off the Maryland coast just south of Ocean City. Home to herds of wild ponies most think live on its developed sister island, Chincoteague, this 27 mile long island provides diverse opportunities from crowded sun worship to lonely vistas of scrub and dunes.Smith Island - Vanishing under the rising ocean - Smith Island is an eight by four mile island lying twelve miles off of Crisfield, Maryland. Slipping slowly and exorably under the rising waters of the Chesapeake Bay, inhabitants continue to hang on to a land and a life style that seems doomed.Tangier Island - British base for the blockade of the Chesapeake - During the War of 1812, the British fleet developed Tangier island into a base of operations for their the new Corps of Colonial Marines composed of escaped slaves.Virginia Barrier Islands - The Virginia Inside Passage lies behind a string of barrier islands stretching from Chincoteague Island to Cape Charles at the tip of the Delmarva penninsula. kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/F94D0096D965962B85256A64005348E8" Title='Click to open this page'>02 - Basics</a>">02 - Basics - Just getting started? Here are some basics.01 - Kayak Terminology - A guide to kayak & nautical terms. What is it and why is it important? 02 - Types of Kayaks - There are four broad categories of kayaks: General Recreation, Touring, Whitewater and Racing. What questions do you need to answer to determine which type of kayak is best for you?03 - Kayak periodicals - Online publications for Kayakers provide another source of basic information.04 - Kayaking organizations - Links to kayak organizations and associations that could help you get started.05 - Where to find, buy, or rent kayaks - Here are some links to kayak stores, manufacturers, outfitters and communities.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/8DC3170C8E1C2A4885256A640054165E" Title='Click to open this page'>06 - Kayak inst">06 - Kayak instruction and training - Where to get instruction and training about sea kayaks.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/F555D4F951FC6DD285256D3D0005A6BB" Title='Click to open this page'>06.01 - Kayak T">06.01 - Kayak Training Courses by ACA Certified Instructor - Kayak training is available for all skill levels in the Baltimore, Maryland area.06.01.01 - Kayak Class - Basic - Kayak class to provide beginners with a safe and fun introduction to the sport of kayaking.07 - Kayak Bibliography - Books about kayaks and kayak expeditions.08 - Cold Shock - Cold shock is arguably the most likely killer of kayakers. It is also the least known. Even those who know a lot about hypothermia often know little about cold shock.09 - Hypothermia - Killer Cold - An introduction to the dangers of hypothermia10 - Other Medical Considerations - Dehydration, Sun Stroke, Heat Exhaustion, Hyponatremia, Cold Shock, Trench Foot11 - Sharing with the big boys - General guidelines for safety around large vessels12 - How to kayak - Making your kayak go - The forward power stroke and forward touring stroke13 - How to kayak - Making your kayak stop - The backward power stroke is used for stopping and going backwards.14 - How to kayak - making your kayak turn - Sweeps, rudders and draws. Strokes for turning your kayak.15 - How to kayak - keeping your kayak from capsizing - High and Low Braces - Staying on top of your kayak.16 - How to kayak - What to do after a capsize - wet exiting - You missed your brace. You capsized and now you are the keel instead of the mast. Now what do you do? 17 - How to kayak - getting back in your capsized kayak - Paddle float rescue and other self and assisted rescues that work18 - How to kayak - getting in and out of your kayak - Get in and out of your kayak with grace and safety. Kayaks are tippy, especially when you are not in them. Use these techniques to enter and exit a kayak safely.19 - Basic Equipment - Here is a list a basic coastal kayaking equipment, safety gear, signaling devices, navigation, clothing and camping gear.20 - Paddle types shapes and sizes - Paddles - everyone likes something different and that is a good thing, otherwise we would all be trying to buy the same paddle. I use a Lightning paddle.21 - Navigation Aids - Aids to Navigation can provide a boater with the same type of information drivers get from street signs, stop signals, road barriers, detours and traffic lights.22 - Low-head dams: A not-so clear and present danger - Rivers can be treacherous, not only because of the tremendous power they possess, through the movement of flowing water, but because of structures they flow over, around and through.23 - Mosquitos - They may be low on the food chain, but they are above you! Mosquitos are an unavoidable fact in the summer months. Here are some suggestions on how to do battle with the little buggers.24 - Seasickness, Mal de Mer - If you are one of the many who are susceptible to seasickness, some preparation and knowledge might prevent a very unpleasant experience.25 - Choosing a spray skirt - A spray skirt is important for safety and comfort when kayaking. Fit and function vary among the many types of spray skirts available.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/88A183DF514D13E885256A6400537482" Title='Click to open this page'>03 - Intermedia">03 - Intermediate Topics - Of interest to those with intermediate levels of kayak skills01 - Am I ready to go kayaking? - Here are some things to consider in deciding if you are capable of kayaking on an extended or solo trip.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/29737D51B061B48885256B0C00564A10" Title='Click to open this page'>02 - Kayak camp">02 - Kayak camping and expeditions - Staying out two or more days in your kayak presents a number of challenges as well as new experiences.02.01 -Packing it in - Packing a kayak for an extended trip is an artform. Proper consideration of balance and trim can improve the performance of your kayak and your enjoyment of your trip.02.02 -Packing it out - Take only photographs and don't even leave footprints. Being thoughful of the fragile seashore environment will keep access to these areas open for all of us.03 - Hand Signals - Communication over distance - Communication at sea can be difficult if not impossible. Learn a set of hand signals. Make sure everyone in the group agrees on the meaning.04 - Basic Surf Paddling Techniques - Surf poses a whole new set of problems and opportunites for the touring kayaker. Here are some tips on how to handle it.05 - Downwind Paddling Technique - Paddling downwind can be fun. Practice and skills developed in controlled conditions can pay off in a free ride or when conditions get difficult.06 - Long Distance Touring Stroke - Long distance kayaking like cycling, skiing, hiking and other endurance pursuits, requires conditioning, training, and above all proper paddling technique.07 - Towing Techniques - Sooner or later either you or a companion will need to be towed. Practice these techniques and you will be ready.08 - The Physics of Rolling - Rolling Principals - Knowing the physics can help your roll09 - Paddling in a group - Group paddling dynamic - who me?10 - How to use a marine VHF radio. - Most people have had little exposure to the proper use of a radio over the regulated airwaves. There is a protocol and special language for radio chatter which enhances the effectiveness of communications for all users.Core Exercises for Kayakers - The torso and legs are the engine of the kayak. Most of the power comes from there. Here are some exercises for increasing your power and stamina. Get in shape or stay in shape with these movements.Intermediate Training - Intermediate coastal kayakers will perfect advanced strokes and maneuvers, as an end goal, or as preparation for advanced open water skill development. Knots - Keeping it where you want it - Knots are important anywhere there are ropes and lines. Here are some basic knots that keep things put; the clove hitch, bowlin, figure eight, fishermans, truckers and Prussic knots.Roll - Deep Water Storm - This roll many find incredible easy to do. It looks like magic as there is very little apparently going on. But it works especially well when the waves are high and the action on the surface is hot.Safety & Survival Items - Things to have when times get tough - Everyone who kayaks should have an set of emergency items that they have available when out for any length of time. In addition to a medical kit and a crash kit for cold water paddling, these are items that you should consider carrying.Tides - What causes tides? Gravity and rotation of the earth, sun and moon. Learn how the complex interaction of these three bodies affect your world.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/8FEC77F0408D3AD685256A6400538685" Title='Click to open this page'>04 - Advanced T">04 - Advanced Topics - Specialized topics for advanced kayakers.Customizing the fit of your kayak - Foam pads, correctly applied to the seat and thigh braces, are essential for creating the snug, comfortable fit paddlers need.Derek Hutchinson - Thoughts of a kayak pioneer - Derek Hutchinson is considered a father of modern kayaking. He was there at the beginning of British sea kayaking, the creation of the British Canoe Union and many techniques employed by sea kayakers of today. He talks about some of the early innovations and gives his views on the state of kayaking today.Making your own traditional Greenland style paddle - Traditional Greenland paddles can get fashioned cheaply from basic stock with a little wood working skill and a few simple tools.Rescues & Rolling - An advanced rescues course prepares you for the worst the sea has to throw at you, whether you're out for a day trip or a week long expidition.Sail Plans - Make your own kayak sail - From a few pieces of easily obtained materials, you can make your own very effective sail with a minimum of effort and no modification to your kayak hull.Sea Anchor or Drogue - Make your own - Sea Anchors are used by vessels in heavy seas and strong winds to keep the bow positioned into the oncoming breaking seas. They can also be used to maintain position.Sea Kayak Disasters - Bad things can happen when out in a kayak. Read about other's misfortunes and learn lessons to keep yourself safe.Surf - Procedures and considerations for launching - If you are going to paddle the coast, you are going to have to deal with launching off the beach into the surf. Here are some things to consider.Surf Techniques - Surfing can be a lot of fun. But it can also be dangerous. In any case, it is an essential skill for any touring paddler. There is no better way to build your technique for bracing, edging, boat control and rolling in real conditions.Surfing Terminology - Surf kayaks can perform many manoevers on the face of beach surf. Touring kayaks are not well designed to perform these moves. But what the heck........Training - BCU Week Tybee Island - Every year in late October, Sea Kayak Georgia hosts a five-day British Canoe Union (BCU) symposium at Tybee Island, Georgia. The 2006 symposium ran from Saturday, October 28 through Wednesday, November 1. It is the second one Rick attended and both have been excellent learning and teaching opportunities. It’s also a great way to stretch out the warm weather/water paddling season.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/8B6909AE064B75CC85256A640053A7DD" Title='Click to open this page'>05 - Resources<">05 - Resources - Resources for weather forecasts, charts, etc.Beaufort Wind Force Scale and Sea State - The Beaufort scale is an empirical measure for the intensity of the wind based mainly on sea-state or wave conditions.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/C2B96B7C0100776285256BBC004F0A39" Title='Click to open this page'>Event Listing</">Event Listing - Activities around the Chesapeake area.Event Calendar - Activities around the Chesapeake area.Gear List and Float Plans - Gear List and Float Plans (PDF) from Seakayaker magazineLaunch Ramps - Listing with fees, facilities, season, hours, pictures, maps, directions and notes. Click on black triangles to toggle sort order. Click on blue triangles to expand or collapse categories.Maps and Statistics of Maryland - Links to resources for maps, geologic information and statistics.Maps, Charts and Coastal Images - The NOS MapFinder service provides "one stop shopping" for images and data from a number of National Ocean Service (NOS) officesMaps, Virginia Raster Maps Link - Very large detailed raster maps of various parts of Virginia.NOAA CoastPilot Link - NOAA publication Coast Pilot® available in electronic (adobe.pdf) format. Tides, Weather, Winds, Surf, Water and Road Conditions - Chesapeake Bay - Overview - Tidal predictions, weather radar, infrared, satelite, buoy observations, wind speed and more.Water Access - Links to the Maryland DNR water access site.Water Trails - Water Trails information and links, Chesapeake Gateways, Maryland Water Trails, Pennsylvania Water TrailsWhat's New Here - Find out what's new and what has changed recently on this site.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/04DC31678F40A57885256B0F00042820" Title='Click to open this page'>06 - Safety</a>">06 - Safety - Kayaks are generally safe but present varied potential dangers. Use of the 6Ps of kayak safety - Planning, Partner, PFD, Preparation, Practice and Patience - can lessen these objective dangers.Lightning is frightening - In the United States, an average of 73 people are killed each year by lightning. That's more than the annual number of people killed by tornadoes or hurricanes. Do you know about lightning?Personal Flotation Devices - Whether called life jackets, life vests, life preservers, Mae Wests or Personal Floatation Devices ( PFDs), this equipment is one of the essential Ps of kayaking. PFDs provide individualized floatation assistance. The Coast Guard states 85% of all drowning deaths were preventable if the victim had worn a PFD..Visual Distress Signals - Although not required to carry visual distress signals during the day, kayakers should carry some type of daytime distress signalWave Dynamics and Rogue Waves - Wind waves, or the rippling of the ocean surface by the friction and driving force of the wind, is the most ever-present oceanic feature. Wind - Downbursts - Caused by thunder-storms, localized strong winds as high as 130 miles per hour can hit with little or no warning.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/1DAABEEFABB5BCB285256A92005CAA39" Title='Click to open this page'>08 - Kayak Trip">08 - Kayak Trip Reports - Reports on sea kayak trips, including descriptions, pictures and resources.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/D0A7BF158A8C72BA852573CD00604998" Title='Click to open this page'>Bahamas - Exuma">Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/05 to 2008/03/15 - Getting ready - Kayak in clear water of incredible shades of turquoise over sugar white sand. The Exuma Islands of the Bahamas have 365 different islands - one for each day of the year. Come see the Exumas and feel alright!Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/06 - Norman's Pond Cay - 8 miles - Our first day on the water kayaking in the Exuma Islands, The Bahamas. We launched from Barre Terre and headed northwest over gorgeous turquoise and silver waters, seeing sharks, rays and ospreys on the way.Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/07 - Lignum Vitae - 6 miles - Our second day in the Exumas kayaing in the Bahamas. We snorkled over a gorgeous small coral patch reef, saw iguannas and finished the day playing with the shore surf.Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/08 - Big Farmers Cay - 9 miles - Through a tropical downpour, we continued north through the Exumas Island chain to farthest camp on Big Farmer's Cay. On a long beach we spent a unsettled rainy afternoon and evening under the pine trees.Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/09 - Back to south to Lignum Vitae - 9 miles - After three days of paddling, it was prudent to start back. We turn south with the wind and get a new perspective on the islands we just paddled past. Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/10 - Norman's Pond Cay - 6 miles - Continuing south on Day 5 we return to Norman's Pond Cay to a buggy evening on the nice beach there.Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/11 - Brigantine Bank New Cay - Out on the Brigantine Bank, we spend time gliding over crystal clear waters, snorkeling and sitting on gorgeous beaches.Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/12 - Long Cay - A walk through the mangroves leads to a another great camp on a nice beach.Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/13 - Boysie Cay - Have we saved the very best for last? Lobster, snorkeling, blow holes and playing in the surf and surge wrap up our last full day on this trip.Bahamas - Exuma Islands - 2008/03/14 - Return to Barre Terre - 1.5 miles - A slow departure signals a reluctance to leave this beautiful place. Our last day sees us back in Georgetown getting reacquainted with the comforts of civilization.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/4C268E9E7409AE1685256F0D005AE611" Title='Click to open this page'>BC - Vancouver ">BC - Vancouver Island - Part 1 - Anacortes, WA - Big tidal ranges, currents exceeding 10 knots, fog, big surf, sudden high winds, cold water - just the perfect place for kayaking, eh? We take two weeks introducing ourselves to the kayak mecca of British Columbia with day trips in Anacortes Washington and Ucluelet/Tofino in BC.BC - Vancouver Island - Part 2 - Getting to Ucluelet - The Wild Pacific Rim Trail is on the western side of Vancouver Island near Ucluelet. There heavy winter surf meets the temperate rain forest. Twisted cedars, firs and hemlocks on the edge of a struggle of sea against land triumph over the harsh conditions and flourish in an impenetrable forest.BC - Vancouver Island Part 3 - Pacific Rim National Park - Pacific Rim National Park lies along the beautiful western shore of Vancouver Island. With boardwalks through the temperate rain forest and long deserted beaches with the blue Pacific rolling in, we experienced BC at its best.BC - Vancouver Island Part 4 - Ucluelet - Kayaking in the harbor of Ucluelet, British Columbia provides an introduction to Vancouver Island's marine ecosystem in a protected setting comfortable for the novice kayaker.BC - Vancouver Island Part 5 - Tofino - Tofino is on the southern edge of Clayoquot Sound containing densely forested islands, valleys and inlets. It is the largest area of intact temperate rain forest left on Vancouver Island. The waters around these protected lowland coastal temperate rain forests provide many kayaking opportunities.BC - Vancouver Island Part 6 - Zeballos, Port Alice, Port Hardy, Victoria and back to the U.S.A. - The last of our trip was a car adventure over Vancouver's secondary roads to the western fiords and up the main highway to the north end of Vancouver Island. We then returned to Victoria and caught the ferry to Washington's Olympic Peninsula. The trip ends with a quick hike at Mt. Rainier.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/0F1FFA1795225E7F852573F7001902FB" Title='Click to open this page'>Chile - Patagon">Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/01/31 to 2008/02/16 - Remote, rugged, moody and unpredictable, sea kayaking in Patagonia Chile is for kayakers with developed skills and an adventurous spirit.Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/02/03 - Starting our sea kayak trip requires a 400 km drive over the Carretera Austral from Coyhaique to Caleta Tortel. This scenic drive over two days gets us to a launch on the Rio Baker delta.Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/02/04 - 6 miles - Leaving Cochrane we continue down the Carreterre Austral to Caleta Tortel and our put in. Leaving in mid afternoon we battle a strong head wind to our first camp.Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/02/05 to 2008/02/06 - 13.4 miles - Unpredictable Chile grants us a perfect day. Paddling a lazy day of discovery we make an early Camp 2 on a beautiful beach. The next day we take a rest day.Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/02/07 - 17.6 miles - Crossing the exposed 5 kilometers to the southern shore we are in position to get to the glacier. On a day with wildly varying conditions, the first ice chunks appear. Camp 4 is on the edge of a large glacial moraine sand bar.Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/02/08 - 15.6 miles - A half day 7 mile paddle up a lush valley find a lunch spot out of the rain on the return. Heading to our camp within sight of Jorge Montt glacier we see our first blue icebergs.Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/02/09 - 14.2 miles - Jorge Montt slides downslope to greet us as we paddle closer to the face. The immensity of this ice dwarfs us in our little kayaks.Chile - Patagonia - Jorge Montt Glacier - 2008/02/10 to 2008/02/11 - Time to take leave of Jorge Montt glacier and start back. On a misty, rainy day we discover a beautiful cove and magical water fall.DE - Chesapeake & Delaware Canal - 2004/11/13 - 29.0 miles - Kayaking C& D Canal. The Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay are connected by a sea level canal constructed to pass shipping safely inside coastal waters. Used extensively by Liberty Ships avoiding possible dangerous submarine infested ocean waters, its present day commercial use is much reduced. Only fairly shallow draft vessels can pass through the 14 mile long canal.DE - Dewey Beach - 2002/01/25 - Dewey Beach is a typical sea side resort community. But in the sound and canals just west of the "condo strip" are waterways and marshes that provide a great place to paddle.FL - Alexander Springs - 2007/01/16 - 12.8 miles - Alexander Springs Florida is another of the numerous springs that have been developed as a state recreational park. The park is a place for swimmers. But downstream of the spring is a beautiful fourteen mile run of nearly untouched waterway of rushes, lilies, oaks and palms.FL - Biscayne National Park - 2007/12/01 to 2007/12/04 - Just a few miles from the three part skyscape of Miami, the often overlooked Biscayne National Park is a wonderful destination for kayakers. With all the natural features of the Florida Keys and some history thrown in as well, a trip to Boca Chita and Elliott Key makes for a nice unhurried weekday experience.FL - Cedar Keys - 2007/01/20 - 11.9 miles - Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge on Florida Nature Coast is a 1929 addition to the National Wildlife Management system. With a long history of development in early Florida history, these islands are now reverting to a natural state. They make for an easy and safe place to paddle on a day trip.FL - Everglades - 2001/01/15 to 2001/01/22 - Gliding over the backs of Alligators, watching dolphins herd fish, seeing sea turtles and exotic birds, sitting next to tailing tarpon are just a few of the extraordinary things about an Everglades kayak trip.FL - Everglades - 2003/02/02 - 13 miles - Turner River is one of many rivers that transition the slow moving, shallow river of grass in the Everglades to the mangrove islands lying along the southwest coast of southern Florida Gulf of Mexico. This narrow twisting stream of clear water moves beneath the wiry entwined limbs of low overhead red mangroves forming a tunnel of green waxy leaves arching completely across the waterway. Between the intermittent tunnels, the sawgrass of the fresh water grass prairie that stretches southward from the shore of Lake Okeechobee slowly loses its battle to the salt tolerant mangroves. Myriads of large birds hunt along the shores in the tall sawgrass and fly overhead in large flocks. This river makes a wonderful day trip and an great introduction to the ecology of the Everglades itself.FL - Everglades City Ten Thousand Islands - 2003/02/03 to 2003/02/06 - 50 Miles - Florida's Ten Thousand Islands area lies southeast of Naples and northwest of the Everglades National Park. The many islands form a transition from the freshwater marsh of the "river of grass" to the open salt water of the Gulf of Mexico. Heavily commercialized and visited by novice kayakers and canoeist, this readily accessible piece of Florida is still worth seeing.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/0FC7CB5B7CD9FB9D85256F8000702944" Title='Click to open this page'>FL - Everglades">FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 1 - 2004/12/01 to 2004/12/12 - Carl Ross key on the edge of Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico is everyone's image of an island paradise. Sea grape trees, coconut palms and black mangrove stud this fantasy island of white sand beaches, cactus, egrets, ibis and pelicans. What's not to like? What a way to start a ten day trip along the Wilderness Waterway.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 2 - Carl Ross to Northwest Cape - 19.8 miles - Cape Sable in the Everglades is an amazing stretch of continuous beach. Camping is permitted anywhere along the 5 miles of gorgeous sand along the usually clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The fishing is good too!FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 3 - Northwest Cape to Highland Beach - 19.8 Miles - Between Cape Sable and Highland beach is a long stretch of shallow water along a mangrove lined shore. Steady paddling puts some miles behind us and the day ends with a gorgeous sunset.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 4 - Highland Beach to Mormon Key - 18.8 miles - On the way to Mormon Key, we paddle through prime bone fish territory over shallow sand bars under bright tropical skies.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 5 - Mormon Key to Plate Creek Chickee - 17.4 miles - Leaving the coast at Mormon Key, we head into the interior of the Everglades to start following the Wilderness Waterway back toward Flamingo.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 6 - Plate Creek Chickee to Rodger's River Chickee - 14.7 miles - Only temporarily lost near Lostman's Bay, we paddled through a series of bays to finally locate Rodger's River Chickee. There a superb sunset and a patrolling gator were waiting for us.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 7 - Rodger's River Chickee to Highland Beach - 16.4 miles - The Nightmare, a narrow channel through the mangroves filled with roots and mosquitos, proves to be too tough. We bail out about half way trough and head out to Highland Beach.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 8 - Highland Beach to Watson River chickee - 23.2 miles - Our day paddling to Watson River chickee was plagued by low water and high winds. We battled them all to arrive tired but happy at the secluded chickee on the back side of Whitewater Bay.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Day 9 - Watson River chickee to Pearl Bay chickee - 22.3 miles - Hells Bay - it sounds bad; it looks bad. But if you pay close attention, you can navigate through this tangle of mangroves with only a map and a compass.FL - Everglades Wilderness Waterway Last Day - Pearl Bay chickee to Flamingo - 14.8 miles - The final leg of our trip leads across Whitewater Bay and into Flamingo Canal. Our trip is over and it was all good, even when it was bad.FL - Florida Bay and Cape Sable - 2003/02/08 to 2003/02/14 - 65.5 Miles - Florida Bay lies between the Florida Keys to the south and east and the Everglades to the north. Many islands dot the bay but only a few allow overnight stays. Carl Ross, the most beautiful isle my kayak as ever seen, is one of those keys. Only this slice of heaven could top the magnificent beaches of Cape Sable.kayak.ws//kayak/kayak.nsf/0/C8CAC2EA1F94FEC085256E170059832A" Title='Click to open this page'>FL - Florida Ke">FL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/03 to 2004/03/13 - Bahia Honda State Park in the lower Florida Keys is a beautiful base for kayaking the islands of the Great White Heron Wildlife Refuge. Usually sold out a year in advance, I snagged a cancelled reservation for a campsite for 10 days, loaded up the kayaks on a trailer and took off for three weeks of Florida sun. From there we took several day trips to various nearby locations.FL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/05 - Snipe Keys - 25 miles - In the Lower Florida Keys lies the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge composed of many mangroves keys separated by shallow turtle grass flats. In the first day trip of a week long sea kayak vacation, we adventure out on a windy day to the Snipe Keys. On the way back we paddle through mangrove lined creeks.FL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/06 - Crane Nature Center and Bahia Honda Key - Crane Nature Center provides a quiet rest day after a hard paddle. The rest of the day we spent enjoying Bahia Honda State Park.FL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/07 - Content Keys - 23.0 miles - Kayaking to the Content Keys deep in the great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge on a windy day provided a 23 mile adventure into the tropical mangroves of the Florida keys flats. We saw sponges, sharks, skates and rays in the turquoise water.FL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/08 - Looe Key - 20.5 miles - Kayak day trip to Looe Key for snorkeling. A calm day after days of windy conditions allows us to paddle 5 miles offshore to snorkel on the reef. Cloudy water conditions make for less than wonderful time on the reef, but the paddle out and back was good.FL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/09 - Bahia Honda day trip - Heavy winds, strong currents - who needs it! Paddle sapphire waters over sparkling white sand in protected waters at Bahia Honda in the Florida Keys. Now that's paradise.FL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/11 - Johnston Key - Johnston Keys - A windy day over the flats provides a quiet paddle in the mangrovesFL - Florida Keys - 2004/03/12 - Coupon Bight - 8 miles - The shallow waters of Coupon Bight in the Florida Keys is filled with jellyfish standing on their heads.FL - Hillsborough River - 2003/01/25 - 19.5 Miles - Hillsborough River flows through the heart of Tampa. Outside of the city, the river runs southwest through preserved swamp area, a chain of parks and the challenge of the "Seventeen Runs".FL - John Pennekamp State Park - 2007/12/04 to 2007/12/09 - John Pennekamp State Park is best known as a snorkeling and dive area. But with a kayak vendor and a set of marked trails plus quick access to the Florida Bay, it is a good kayaking destination as well.FL - Juniper Springs - 2003/01/18 - 14 miles - This 7 mile upstream route in the run-off channel of an enormous spring will amaze you with its beautiful crystal clear waters twisting in and out of live oak and sable palms. At its head you will see volcanos of sand erupting from the shallow bottom and a deep pool of blue water. This magnificent trip ends with a blazing ride back to the starting point.FL - Lake Kissimmee - 2003/01/23 - Lake Kissimmee is a name more known for development than outdoor recreation. However, it is Florida's third biggest lake a haven for serious bass fishermen. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is little known and not heavily visited.FL - Little Manatee River Alafia River - 2003/01/26 - There are official Florida Canoe Trails on both the Alafia and Little Manatee Rivers southeast of Tampa Florida. The rivers are small and the distances short with moderate development on the banks.FL - Myakka River - 2003/01/29 - 9 miles - Myakka River State Park is a large and diverse natural area with brooding and dark palmetto palm swamps, pine land prairie, tree canopy walkways and bright lakes rampant with birds and alligators. Many, many alligators.FL - Peace River - 2003/01/27 to 2003/01/28 - 51.5 miles - The Peace River flows south from east of Tampa to empty in a large bay near Port Charlotte. Between Ft. Meade and Gardner the river provides beautiful paddling through undeveloped Southern Florida with some good overnight camp spots for this two day trip.FL - Rainbow Springs, Withlacoochee River - 2007/01/23 - 16.5 miles - Rainbow Springs has exceptionally clear water in a deep run with partially developed banks. With cypress, lilies and fish everywhere it makes an interesting day paddle.FL - Shired Island - 2007/01/22 - 10.9 miles - Shired Island is a small county campground at the end of CR 357 right on a small beach. I launched at an even smaller bird observation platform and paddled south out of the shallow creek into an even shallower near shore coast. Stopping at a lovely beach, I feasted on oysters collected and eaten one at a time.FL - St. Johns River - 2003/01/19 - 17 miles - The St. Johns River flows northward for over half the length of Florida, more than 200 miles, before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean at Jacksonville. Through lakes, canals, development and wild area, the St. Johns is a reflection of the conflicting demands placed upon it by the burgeoning populations around it.FL - St. Mary's River - 2003/01/11 to 2003/01/12 - 54 miles - From out of the Southeast corner of the Okefenokee swamp, the St. Mary's River drains the clear tannin stained water to the Atlantic ocean, once coveted as a water source for long ocean voyages.FL - Suwannee River - 2003/01/15 to 2003/01/17 - 58.2 miles - The Suwannee River originates in the heart of the Okefenokee Swamp, a shallow bowl of an ancient sea now filled with peat, cypress, tupelo and gum trees. The clean but tannin stained waters of the swamp flow southwest from the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to empty into the Gulf of Mexico over two hundred miles away. Along the way it experiences Florida's largest white water, meanders along banks unchanged since the mid 1800s, receives fresh water form many springs and carves its way through limestone cliffs exposed at periods of low water.FL - Suwannee River, Lower - 2007/01/21 - 16.0 miles - A two part paddle on the Lower Suwannee River provides a great day with wide variety: from straight river banks along a big a famous river to twisting streams on a new water trail.FL - Tomoka River - 2003/01/21 - 22 miles - This Tomoka River trip begins in a marsh just off the intracostal waterway on the developed east coast of Florida and heads southwest into a swampy cypress area punctuated with development and houses. Sable palms, pines and marsh grass line the banks.GA - Crooked River - 2003/01/10 - 29.7 miles - On the Georgia seacoast, just north of the Florida border, the Crooked River deserves its name. The tight loops of the river meander among the low marsh grasses emptying into the Intracoastal Waterway.GA - Okefenokee Swamp - 2003/01/13 to 2003/01/1 | |
