To Yerba Buena Island and back - Rated Level 3 (explained below)
Details
To join C&KP Meetup trips after December 1, 2025, there is no fee, however please ensure that you’ve signed the Western Sea Kayakers annual liability release that’s available online at https://form.jotform.com/JLAagency/western-sea-kayakers-waiver
We will launch from Encinal beach next to the boat ramp.
Meet time: 9:45 am, on the water 10:30 am
Nearest street address: 190 Central Ave., Alameda, CA. 94501
No inflatables, folding boats or SUP's. Minimum boat length 13 feet in SF Bay. Limited to 8 paddlers.
After launching we will paddle north into SF Bay heading to Yerba Buena Island. Once on the island, we will stop for lunch at Clipper Cove beach. After lunch we will return to launch location.
This trip is rated DIFFICULT, suitable for kayakers with open SF Bay experience, and boats prepared for open water rescues. Total distance about 12 miles. On this route is about 4 miles each way of open SF Bay paddling.
Launching and our lunch stop will be at the beach. Restroom is available at Encinal. Pack lunch and water. If you have wheels, bring them. Adjustments may be made to the route, based on current conditions and experience of the paddlers.
PLEASE READ THIS: The organizers of this trip are not experts, not professional paddlers and do not necessarily have safety training or carry any safety equipment. Each paddler must have the training, experience and equipment required to complete this paddle safely, and must assume all personal risks. A Coast Guard approved life jacket or Personal Flotation Device must be worn by everyone while on the water.
Rain or strong winds will cancel. Be sure to check your email for updates and information regarding this trip.
This trip is sponsored by Western Sea Kayakers
Trip Rating L3 explained
This trip is good for Intermediate paddlers. Expect waves to 2.5 ft, wind near 20 mph. Steering and forward progress requires good boat-handling skills, edging, balancing and bracing skills. We will stay within 1.5 miles of a shore line, where currents may be about 3 mph. Total distance 12 to 18 miles with a short break(s) for snacks or lunch.
Recommended skills are forward, reverse, sweep strokes; bow rudder, draw and bracing strokes. Paddlers can perform deep water rescue as swimmer or rescuer (in waves to 2.5 ft), maintain a 3.4 mph pace for up to 2 hours, and understand basic chart reading and compass use.