San Diego Kayaker

Sunday, January 31, 2010

WhaleQuest


This morning, Jane Hardy rallied 11 SD paddlers at the La Jolla Shores Boat Launch in hopes of viewing Grey Whales on their southern migration. Those in attendance were Jane, Teresa, Mike B, John and Lori, Curt, Jim A, John O, John B, Steve H, and me. Recently, Greys have been spotted from both boats and the cliffs of Point Loma.

The normally docile launching area at the foot of Avenida De La Playa was complicated today because of a pushing 7'4" high tide that had shut off vehicle access, flooded the area, and piled up a ton of slippery seaweed and other nasty stuffl. Boats were staged on the promenade and had to be lifted over the seawall to whatever uncovered areas could be found. Although the surf was relatively small, the high tide could quickly turn you sideways as you launch.



The paddle itself was uneventful. We went out a couple miles, headed north, peeled our eyes, and paddled back. No greys were spotted but we almost saw some. We did see a lot of dolphins and some chose to buzz us as we headed back. By the time we returned, the tide had receded and there was more than enough beach to land on. Rather than the normal process of leaving boats at the launch and walking back to retrieve cars from the LJS parking, most chose to gang carry a long line of kayaks past a number of amused tourists and park users. A debriefing was held at Squires Coffee Shop in La Jolla. 


Photos courtesy of John B.

Labels: , ,

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Free Digital Back Issues

Back issues of Adventure Kayak magazine are now free in digital format.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Saturday Practice Mission Bay

Mike Brown, Dennis Hyndman, Ken Frye, myself, and others will be practicing a variety of rescue and towing skills outside the Mission Bay Breakwater, this Saturday morning, the 16th. We will meet at 8:30 in Aqua Adventure's parking lot and launch at 9:00. Jen has OK'd us to launch from the dock. You are welcome to join us if you are comfortable practicing in a range of open water conditions.

The plan is to paddle about 1.4nm to a spot outside the north jetty to practice in conditions created by the jetty, swell, and wind. Participants are free to select what they want to work on. A menu of skills to practice includes T rescues (between the boats as well as over the side), anchor tows while doing a T rescue, scoop rescues, rolls and re-entry rolls, scramble/cowboy recoveries, half paddle rolls, Hand of God, and towing practice. Dressing for full immersion is a must and helmets are recommended in addition to the normal safety gear (PFD, spray skirt, pump, paddle float, tow belt...)

Monday, January 11, 2010

Dana Point to Treasure Island

13 of us left Mother's Beach in Dana Point under warm and clear conditions. Several other San Diego paddlers made the trek northward to join their OC brethren. We cruised up the coast enjoying the sunshine. Two of the paddlers decided to turn back after Three Arch Bay, the rest continued.

I am happy to report that everyone landed safely at Treasure Island even though Dumpy was also enjoy the weather. I missed the group photo as I was using the four star bathrooms at the resort.

The paddle back to Dana Point was uneventful. The worst part is the fact you have to paddle the entire length of the jetty, then back again to reach the beach. We cleaned up the boats and headed over to grab some food and drink. Although I missed the New Year's Day Paddle, this was a fine way to kick off 2010!

Labels: ,