Trip Classifications
(Ratings) |
Trips are classified under the following categories:
Pace/Endurance, describing the strength, endurance
and fitness required to comfortably complete the trip;
Skills Required, describing the paddling skills
and seamanship required to safely handle the situations that could
be encountered on the trip.
Special Cold Weather Classification: The Club
now paddles year round. Winter, late fall and early spring bring
their own challenges, not the least of which is the possibility
of very cold water, ice, and fog. We do not paddle far from shore,
nor in windy conditions. Paddlers should have wet and/or dry suits,
carry signalling lights and a cell phone, as well as have at least
one complete change of winter clothing in a dry bag in their hatch.
Pace/Endurance:
- Not Strenuous: Daily paddling typically less than 3 hours, with
distances of 10 kilometres or less.
- Moderately Strenuous: Daily paddling typically between 3 and
5 hours, with distances of 10 to 20 kilometres.
- Experienced: Requires advanced paddling, seamanship and rescue
skills. Ability to handle waves greater than one meter. Expect
exposed waters, open crossings, large waves, moderate to strong
winds, surf, fog, and potentially difficult landings. Sheltered
resting and landing spots could be few.
Skills Required:
- Novice: Requires basic paddling skills, practiced wet exits.
Expect protected waters, easy landings, and shelter for resting.
- Intermediate: Requires basic paddling skills including the ability
to brace, self rescue, and participate in assisted rescues, comfortable
in one meter waves, mostly protected waters, some difficult landings,
and some sheltered spots for resting. Paddlers must be comfortable
paddling at night time.
- Experienced: Requires advanced paddling, seamanship and rescue
skills. Ability to handle waves greater than one meter. Expect
exposed waters, open crossings, large waves, moderate to strong
winds, surf, fog, and potentially difficult landings. Sheltered
resting and landing spots could be few.
Note:
The term exploratory indicates the organizer has not been on the
planned route or in the area before. Therefore, trip conditions
cannot be predicted from past experience.
Trips are classified in advance. Weather conditions may make it
necessary to modify these classifications on the day of the event.
Should plans change due to weather conditions or other unforeseen
factors, the tour organizer will be in touch. If you change your
plans, a courtesy call would be appreciated.
Stated paddle times are start times. Please arrive 20-30 minutes
early to prepare for launching at appointed time.
Problems? Contact the Tour Director
It is important to confirm your participation with the tour organizer,
who is responsible for all tour details, e.g., meeting place, food
arrangements, car shuttle, car pool, etc.
Each tour organizer will provide particulars, through e-mail or
telephone, explaining each trip in full detail for all those who
have expressed an interest in attending a specific trip. |
