Paddling with ConnYak

Almost every weekend throughout the warmer season, paddles are announced on our bulletin board or posted on the newsletter. Paddles are labeled as to the level of difficulty.

All open water paddles are rated as Novice / Intermediate because the sea conditions can drastically change in an hour. Novice paddles are inter-coastal and river paddles. Advanced paddles will always be marked on the listing and encompass offshore crossings, and usually rougher conditions and longer distances.

Any paddle can change dramatically which is the nature of our sport and something we should always be aware of. Although paddlers will always help one another, ultimately, you are responsible for your own safety when paddling on any trip.

Please try paddling for a few hours before attempting a ConnYak trip even on a novice paddle. The other paddlers as well as you will be happy you did that.

Members and non-members are welcome on paddles when you abide by the following rules.

Responsibilities of Paddlers on ConnYak Trips

All paddlers are responsible for their own safety, including dressing for immersion. You must wear a CG approved PFD and a spray skirt. The boat and equipment must meet CG requirements, including an appropriate signaling device. Beginners must have taken a basic course and be proficient in performing a wet exit, paddle float reentry and carry a pump. Kayaks without bulkheads should have floatation installed. (Always carry extra dry clothes, food and water) Paddlers are expected to show a sense of awareness as far as staying with the group.

Trip Ratings

Paddler knows how to get in and out of their boat without falling in, do a wet exit, paddle in a straight line,and understand channel markers.

On ConnYak trips, novice paddlers are expected to be able to keep up with the leisurely group pace or will be turned back.

Fully capable of self rescue, confident paddling stroke, can turn 360 degrees in a 15 knot beam wind and is capable and comfortable doing high and low braces in seas, up to 3 ft.

A dependable roll, able to rescue others, able to land and launch in a 3 foot surf, paddle in a 30 knot beam wind, able to hold a straight course and turn 360 degrees, can sustain a 3 knot (3 1/2 miles per hour) speed for a period of three hours with minimal rest periods and understands paddling in various sea and wind conditions.