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Branches :: Seattle :: Sea Kayaking :: Trips :: Sea Kayaking Essentials


Sea Kayaking Essentials


The Mountaineer “10 essentials”:



1.

Chart (map): We don’t expect new paddlers to be proficient at map reading right away. Feel free to ask the trip leader about the chart, route or symbols.



2.

Compass



3.

Flashlight or Headlamp: A waterproof headlamp for evening paddles; carry extra batteries. A chemical light stick can be used for kayaking but is not preferred.


*

4.

Extra food: Have a lunch for day paddles but also carry an energy bar, nuts or fruit in case you are stuck overnight. Carry at least 2 liters of water on day trips, more on hot days.



5.

Waterproof matches: A quantity of wooden matches in a watertight container, in addition to a small lighter.


*

6.

Extra clothes: Carry an extra fleece, pair of socks and gloves. A pair of dry tennis shoes or sandals is often comfortable for on the beach.



7.

Sunglasses



8.

First-aid kit



9.

Pocket knife



10.

Fire starter


The following 7 essentials are required on all sea kayaking trips:

§

*

1.

Flotation in both ends of the kayak

§

*

2.

PFD (USCG approved)

§

*

3.

Paddle

§

*

4.

Spray skirt

§

*

5.

Bilge pump with flotation

§

*

6.

Self-rescue paddle float


*

7.

Waterproof whistle or air horn


The following 17 items are recommended for all sea kayaking trips and may be required for some:



1.

Spare paddle



2.

Wetsuit or dry suit (required on some trips; strongly suggested on all trips)



3.

Rescue sling



4.

Flares



5.

Paddle tether



6.

50 feet of floating tow rope



7.

Repair kit (minimally, duct tape)



8.

Waterproof case for chart or map (unless your chart or map is laminated)



9.

Waterproof wrist watch



10.

Waterproof jacket



11.

Hat with visor



12.

Pogies or gloves



13.

Neck strap for eye/sunglasses



14.

Sunscreen (water resistant with SPF 25 or higher)



15.

Sponge



16.

Waterproof bag for extra clothing



17.

VHF radio and/or cell phone


§ Items provided with boat rentals

* Student will not be allowed to paddle on a trip without these items

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