Our Marine Environment
Our inland waters provide us with a unique paddling environment. The Olympic Peninsula and Vancouver Island provide us with shelter from the open ocean, so that surf is rare (except for ship wakes and storm conditions). In exchange for this protection, we must learn how to deal with the currents caused by the narrow channels through which the sea must flow, as it enters the Strait of Juan de Fuca and heads south to Olympia, and north through the San Juans to the Strait of Georgia. It is essentially a river that changes direction twice a day.
In order to become proficient, there are certain skills that must be learned and practiced!
Paddling & Rescue Skills
Navigation Skills
Survival Skills
Without wishing to alarm anyone, we want to make it clear that sea kayaking is an activity that always demands sound judgment and caution, no matter how experienced you or your companions are.
Where Should We Go?
There are many areas to kayak in the PNW. Where you go depends on the skill level of the paddlers who are going. Who goes depends on the skills required for the particular trip. There is a huge difference between paddling a quiet bay, and exploring the outer coast of Washington or BC.
Washington Water Trails (WWTA), WA Marine State Parks and BC Marine Trails are invaluable resources for trip planning. They feature campsite information, put-ins, day-use areas and more.
What is the Focus of the Trip?
Intimate exploration of a small area?
Overnight to a marine park?
Enduro paddle, Pt A to Pt B?
Open or rough water exploration?
This will determine the skills necessary for the trip. It is important to use sound judgment when matching a person’s skills to a particular trip.
Plan the duration, length, and difficulty according to the weakest paddler’s abilities. What is easy for an experienced paddler can be quite demanding and dangerous for one with less experience.
Paddle with compatible paddlers, or be prepared to accommodate the paddling styles of others.
Go with someone who knows the area; or, if you have enough experience, check charts, guide books, Coast Pilot, current tables, etc. to decide if the trip is within everyone’s abilities.
The leaders must have the guts to require that all paddlers meet the skill and equipment requirements in order to ensure a safe and fun environment for all.
Sometimes the best (albeit difficult) decision is to call off a trip or to stay put an extra night or two if the conditions warrant it.
Sea kayaking can be a safe and rewarding activity if common sense prevails and certain precautions are taken.
Before you put to sea for a paddle, check that you have the following:
Ten Essentials:
Compass
Proper Clothing
Extra Food
Waterproof Flashlight
Fire Starter
First Aid Kit (including moleskin and tape)
Sunglasses
Pocket Knife
Maps
Waterproof Matches and Container
Planning a Day or Overnight Paddle
Decide where and when you will be paddling. It’s always good to have a plan B and C depending on weather and currents (if applicable).
Plan to dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
Immersion wear is always recommended for paddling in the Sound or San Juans where the water temp is cold year round.
Check current and tide tables if you’ll be paddling on saltwater. This will help decide when to paddle and where to launch from. Changing your itinerary may be necessary if the max ebb or flood times impede you from reaching your planned destination.
Online apps like DeepZoom, The PNW Current Atlas (Apple and Android app stores) and Navionics are great tools for trip planning and visualizing the flow of currents.
Writing down the max ebb, max flood, and slack water times is crucial for reference on the water - especially in areas with large tidal exchanges, and possible poor cell coverage for online apps.
Using the current and tide information, chart a route and calculate paddling distances from the launch point to your destination. Identify any hazards along the way (tide rips, shallow areas, etc.). Compass headings are helpful for open water crossings.
Most paddlers average between 2.5 - 4.5 knots per hour. Knowing your usual pace can give you a good idea of how long you'll be out on the water.
Check the weather forecast and note the wind speed and direction. Again, changing your itinerary may be necessary if wind speeds are above your comfort level.
Wind waves build over long stretches of open water and will steepen in opposing current.
The Windy app and NOAA marine forecast are recommended for weather forecasts. Weather stations are available on handheld VHF radios as well.
Share a float plan with a friend or family member before you go. Be sure to check back in with them after the trip.
Be flexible! Always pack extra food and water in case conditions delay your return paddle home. Sometimes waiting a few hours for the wind to die down, or the current to change direction, can make for a safe journey.
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