Description of Paddle Levels
Level 1 - This is the easiest level paddle. Expect little wind and current. The distance will be 4 miles or less. This paddle is suitable for beginners with shorter (under 12 ft. long) kayaks and sit-on-top kayaks.
Level 2 - A little more difficult paddle of 6 miles or less. We might encounter light winds and current. The paddle may last up to 4 hours. In order to participate you must have demonstrated to a trip leader that you can successfully do a wet exit from your kayak.
Level 3 - This paddle will be 12 miles or less. We may experience moderate wind and current. This can be an open water paddle. Good boat handling skills are recommended, as well as a demonstrated ability to wet exit from your kayak. This paddle could last all day.
Level 4 - For this paddle sea kayaks 16.5 feet or longer are required. Towlines and other safety gear are required. Spray skirts are recommended. This level paddle will be an all day event. Open water and difficult currents and wind may be encountered.
Level 5 - Sea kayaks 16.5 feet or longer are required. Spray skirts and safety gear (tow lines, paddle floats, etc.) are required. You must have demonstrated rescue skills. Expect open water, strong currents and strong winds.
Please keep in mind that sudden changes in weather conditions can immediately raise the level of the easiest paddle. Always come prepared with food, plenty of water, and appropriate clothing, including a change of clothes. Always contact the trip leader to be sure that this paddle is appropriate for your paddling skill level.
Level 1 - This is the easiest level paddle. Expect little wind and current. The distance will be 4 miles or less. This paddle is suitable for beginners with shorter (under 12 ft. long) kayaks and sit-on-top kayaks.
Level 2 - A little more difficult paddle of 6 miles or less. We might encounter light winds and current. The paddle may last up to 4 hours. In order to participate you must have demonstrated to a trip leader that you can successfully do a wet exit from your kayak.
Level 3 - This paddle will be 12 miles or less. We may experience moderate wind and current. This can be an open water paddle. Good boat handling skills are recommended, as well as a demonstrated ability to wet exit from your kayak. This paddle could last all day.
Level 4 - For this paddle sea kayaks 16.5 feet or longer are required. Towlines and other safety gear are required. Spray skirts are recommended. This level paddle will be an all day event. Open water and difficult currents and wind may be encountered.
Level 5 - Sea kayaks 16.5 feet or longer are required. Spray skirts and safety gear (tow lines, paddle floats, etc.) are required. You must have demonstrated rescue skills. Expect open water, strong currents and strong winds.
Please keep in mind that sudden changes in weather conditions can immediately raise the level of the easiest paddle. Always come prepared with food, plenty of water, and appropriate clothing, including a change of clothes. Always contact the trip leader to be sure that this paddle is appropriate for your paddling skill level.