Paddle Planning Guidelines

ConnYak offers these guidelines to its members solely as a planning aid for recreational paddling.  They are not rules, or a checklist, and they do not imply that ConnYak, it’s officers, or members are “experts” at sea kayaking; they only are a suggested approach to assure clear communication and coordination between group members engaged in a particular kayak trip.  Each paddler is responsible for their own safety, and make their own decision to participate.  ConnYak is not a guide service, or an instructional service; we are a group of individuals who share a passion for kayaking, and coordinate activities amongst ourselves for mutual enjoyment.

ConnYak’s Requirements

For scheduled ConnYak events, we require that all participants WEAR a PFD and a sprayskirt, know what a channel marker looks like, be able to perform a wet exit, be able to keep up with the group pace, and also be in full compliance with all local, state, and federal boating laws that apply.  Anyone who does not meet these minimum requirements is not welcome to paddle with us, as they place not only themselves, but also the rest of the group in danger, and may also be breaking the law.

The Plan

First rule of thumb: Try to show up at least a half hour before launch time.

The basic route, destination, distance, current conditions, and hazard areas of the paddle should be discussed and agreed upon in advance of launching, in order that all participants are clear as to where the group is headed. Showing everyone on a nautical chart or Topo map is best.  A “lead” and a “sweep” paddler can be designated at this time as well.  These should preferably be people who know the area and have VHF radios, who agree on a particular channel to monitor (Usually 68, 69, 71, or 72) so that they can communicate.

Launching

Upon launching, both at the beginning of the paddle, and after every landing, gather up the group just off shore, and out of the way of other boats launching and landing.  A headcount of participants should be taken at this time.  Nobody should depart until all are in the water and accounted for.

During The Paddle

Paddlers should stay parallel to or behind the “lead” boat at all times.  The “sweep” boat controls the group: they are responsible for determining when the group is too spread out and calling for a re-grouping, and also are in the best position to see anyone who needs assistance.  This should be done by either VHF radio or by signaling with a whistle or horn.  Any deviation from the original plan should be discussed with the entire group before changing course.  If someone breaks from the group significantly, the sweep should call for a stop & the stray paddler(s) should be brought back to the group.

“Lead” and “sweep” boats can be changed at will during the paddle. If you do this, please alert the entire group of the change.

Channel Crossings

Any channel crossing should be done in a quick, organized fashion.  Kayaks DO NOT have the right of way in a channel, so it is best to stop the entire group at a channel marker, and proceed as a “pod” across the channel when it is clear.

Landing

The inter-tidal zone in Connecticut (Between high & low tide marks) is public property.  However, landing in front of someone’s house for lunch will still cause a law enforcement encounter that you do not need.  Try to land in areas that are known public access, or out of sight of private property.

Rescue Situations

If a paddler capsizes and exits the boat, stop the entire group.  The only boats that should approach the victim are the intended rescuer(s). Everyone else should try to stay a minimum of 30 feet away.  The rescuers are in charge of the entire group until such time as it is determined that, either the victim is OK and able to continue, or until a contingency plan is made if the victim cannot continue.

Communication

Everyone in the group can help with the paddle.  Noticing a point of interest, coming up with an alternative route, etc, are all part of the fun of paddling a kayak. It is not necessary to set a plan in stone and ignore other possibilities.  Simply speak up!

Also, if you notice a problem, hazard, straying paddler, or anything else that may detract from the enjoyment of the paddle, call for a stop by VHF, whistle or horn, and announce your concern to the group as a whole.  Anyone in the group can do this, not just the “lead” or “sweep” paddlers.

Recommended Gear

            - Bilge Pump - Paddle-float - Spare non-cotton clothing - VHF Radio - Signal Mirror - Air Horn - Knife

            - Multi-tool - Duct Tape - Strobe Light - Waterproof matches - Marine Flares (Minimum of 3) - Extra water

            - Sunscreen - Hat - Paddling jacket or drytop - First Aid Kit - Immersion clothing (Wetsuit/drysuit in season)

If these simple guidelines are used, group paddling becomes a much more enjoyable and safer time.

 Have fun and be safe!