Blue Moon Paddle Without the Alien Encounter

So on Friday the aliens will visit Biscayne Bay and light up the night under the blue August moon. By Saturday, they will be gone and the calm bay waters will be ours again. Also, it's technically September but it is the second night of the August blue moon so what the heck, let's paddle.

Make sue you bring your lights, they are required. You must have a bright white signal light as per USCG regulations (not a strobe). I will have inexpensive water resistant lights in the shop in a week ($8 a piece, not too bad). Waterproof lights are available now. Reflective marking spots for paddles will also be in soon. No lights, no paddle. Sorry. The lights also allow other boaters to see us on the water. Visibility is good. Getting run over is not. PFD's are required at all paddles.

Depending on the group and conditions we will paddle towards the Grove or towards Vizcaya. Bring your camera, snacks and plenty to drink.

Rentals: Rentals are available for those in need at the special rate of $25/single and $35/tandem kayaks. Reservations and prepayment are required to guarantee you will have a boat. Stop by or call The Paddle House (http://www.thepaddlehouse.com), 2753 SW 27th Ave., Miami, on the corner of SW 27th Ave and 28th Lane (between Shell Lumber and US 1) or call us at (786) 307 - 3816 to reserve your ride!

Launch Fee: There is a $5 launch fee if you bring your own kayak. Please bring cash for Shake-A-Leg Miami. Well worth it since parking in Coconut Grove is included.

Parking: Pull a ticket at the Shake A Leg lot. Be sure to get your parking validated or you will pay upward of $12 cash at the exit. Parking is free with Shake A Leg validation.

What to bring: Camera, drinks, snack, your boat, your paddle, your PFD (which you will wear). Don't forget your bug spray, just in case. Wear appropriate clothing (avoid cotton and open toe shoes/flip flops).

The oh so fine print:

By participating in any of our paddles you assume all risks and responsibilities for your personal health and safety and for your equipment; as well as the safety and equipment of your guests. It is important for everyone that each participant be prepared for the trip. Please use your discretion and best judgment when joining an outing. Be sure you are up to the paddle -- physically, mentally and that your equipment is appropriate for the intended trip. All night paddles require lights; even for rentals or borrowed boats. PFD and whistles are required. Intermediate to Advanced Paddles are for those who have substantial experience, skill, and solid knowledge of boat handling and self-rescues. Kayaking has inherent risks. Often, we are the smallest boats on the water. We each individually assume these risks each time we go out on the water. With all that being said, we all look forward to yet another great day on the water.