I like a level 0 and a level 6. They explain level 1 and 5 by contrast. We did a paddle around Block Island a few years back after a storm and encountered conditions ranging from 0 to 5 depending on the side of the island we were on. The paddle probably would have been rated as a possible 4. A couple of people did the crossing to Block that day and that could have been a level 6: distance + large waves, white caps, you name it. We, the wise ones, watched them from the ferry. These paddles might not be on the calendar but they do exist. Of course my interpretation of level 4 might not be exactly the same as someone else's.

Maybe we can take a look at the proposed paddle schedule and come
: up with a rating that's appropriate for most of the paddles
: which I think are all similar. I do find it interesting that
: level 5 the group could get spread out. That happens on all
: paddles. Nick, I think you did a good job. I just think having 6
: levels is silly for this club. For a tour group organization
: that is taking people on tours for money and they want to spell
: it out in detail, it makes sense. We don't have a problem with
: people arriving and being out of their league. Actually I have
: been amazed that new paddles with rec boats have come along and
: done fine. And if there's a problem we adapt. I'd like to know
: if the members who paddle regularly with ConnYak find a 7 level
: system of rating necessary? If people feel it's important then
: why not. In many ways we're more like TNP than RIKA. We have a
: basic plan and go and can change if necessary or the mood of the
: group changes. If people want to take advantage of some surf, we
: change plans and some may want to land and watch or hang out.
: That's why I enjoy paddling with the group. If ConnYak gets so
: fixated on running it like a tour group, I think it becomes less
: enjoyable. Who are we protecting with all of this? Not me. New
: people don't arrive to surf or do a crossing to Faulkners.
: Matter of fact, new people don't arrive at all. We scare them
: away.