Join me for a relaxing Sunday morning paddle around Mud Bay to search for birds, critters, and neat rock formations. The tides look high enough to navigate this estuary, and if conditions permit, we may choose to paddle under the railroad tracks to further explore Chuckanut Bay. Total distance will be between 2 and 4 miles, depending on group goals, at a relaxed pace. The aim for this paddle is to stop and look at things rather than to set any world records for speed.
Optional coffee at Cafe Blue in Fairhaven after.
Who this is for.
This trip is appropriate for all club members, and is specifically designed for newer paddlers, those wanting to shake off some rust after the winter, anyone who wants to try out new equipment in a low-stakes environment, or anyone else who wants to join.
Skill Level 1:
Paddling in protected water, consistently near shore; easy landings; day trip; limited wind effect (0-5 kt); current insignificant; minimal swell and wind waves (<1ft), no white caps
Paddler Skills
Able to Swim, Wet Exit (or willing to learn at beginning of trip); except with Trip Initiator's permission
Schedule.
Sunday, March 15
Meet at 9:00 am, shore talk at 9:20, “butts in boats” at 9:30. Feel free to arrive earlier if you need more time to get ready.
Plan to return to shore by 11:30 at the latest.
Location.
Meet at Mud Bay at the end of Fairhaven Avenue. To get there, turn right off Chuckanut Drive onto 21st St, just before the Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden, then right onto Fairhaven Avenue. Follow this to the end of the road. Parking is on the left with the kayak loading zone just a bit further down the road. Parking is somewhat limited; consider carpooling.
Maximum conditions.
Trip will be canceled for significant wind such that whitecaps are present within Mud Bay (this takes a lot of wind), thunder/lightning, or torrential downpour. Trip will still run in “light rain.”
Required Equipment.
Immersion gear required - Drysuit preferred, wetsuit acceptable. I have some extra wetsuits for those who might find this a barrier to joining the trip.
Personal flotation device required.
Suggested Equipment.
Extra set of clothes, water, sunscreen, snacks. Gloves/pogies. Binoculars.
Disclaimer
Every participant is responsible for choosing a trip that lies within their capabilities, including choosing the appropriate gear. All participants must sign, or have signed, the WAKE waiver.