What we’re about
WELCOME ABOARD!
This group is for organizing social events on the water. Primarily using inflatable watercraft.
If you are just considering getting an inflatable - this group might serve you well too. We might lend you a kayak/spot in one for an outing and share our experience. Any watercraft is welcomed if you believe you will keep up/not be bored with our pace.
• Events are tiered: \
Tier0 - for completely novice paddlers. Often not even touching the water. All are welcome \
Tier1 - easy paddles a couple of hours in length open to anyone \
Tier2 - more involved, longer or technical paddles where organizers will be much more selective of participants. \
Tier3 - overnight events. All the participants will be selected from the wait-list by the organizer(s)
To get accepted into Tier2&3 events we expect you to attend Tier0-1 events and establish yourself as a dependable, active and fun participant who shares our values (primary one of which is inclusion and acceptance of people regardless of their gender, age, views, religion, etc). Wait-lists for those events are not lines, organizers will be selecting people from waitlists based on their judgement of participants being the right fit for event. We strive to not be sexists, racist etc, and acknowledge that our biases will be affecting our decisions, while working to minimize that impact. \
Important note: this is not the right group if your primary focus is seeking romantic relationships. There are better places for that.
It sure is possible to meet people here, but please don't use it for prawling. Read the vibe, both verbal and non-verbal communication, respect people's boundaries. Don't even consider writing probing messages to members you haven't met in real life or haven't even had a conversation with in real life. You'll be banned and reported to Meetup for any predatory behaviors. Safe environment for our members is a very high priority. If you encounter any questionable behavior - please report to organizers.
Check out this video for guidance on buying a kayak:
https://youtu.be/5U8u_rkNTSY
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Our vision is to have peaceful 1-3 hr outings, larger trips, and kayak camping. This group is not for competitive paddling, our goal is to have nice time on the water together, bond and share our passion for enjoying water and nature in the most accessible way.
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Disclaimers:
-This group's name is intentionally silly. Results have been surprising.
-We don't discriminate against any watercraft. Hoping that one day someone brings a bathtub to one of our paddles. Yet if you are paddling an inflatable/folding kayak you might fit the best into this group by speed and and the amount of fun to be had. There are plenty of groups for hard-shell kayaks. This one was the response for the niche to serve inflatable kayak enthusiasts, but don't worry if you want to join us with any other craft. Ideally reach out to event organizer first though.
-Your safety is your responsibility. We are making our best effort to ensure we aren't putting people in harm's way, however you should assess your skills and comfort level and not participate in activities that entail unreasonable risks for you. \
-We are not affiliated with any commercial enterprises, so any gear judgments are our personal ones.
Upcoming events (3)
See all- Tier 3: Kayak Camping at Devil's Lake State ParkDevil's Lake State Recreation Area, Lincoln City, OR
IMPORTANT: Once you are on the going list, you need to pay your $20 camping fee (instructions below) within 48 hours, otherwise you will be moved back to the waitlist. Please do NOT pay if you are on the waitlist.
Please note that this is an adults-only event.
Last year was our first time camping and paddling at Devil's Lake, and we really liked the location. In addition to kayaking there are many other possible activities in Lincoln City.
Please follow this link for more info about the park:
Devil's Lake SPATTENDEES:
This is a Tier 3 event, which is meant for experienced kayakers with dependable equipment and a solid history of attending events with our group. The lake can get very choppy when it's windy, which makes it unsuitable for beginners. Everyone goes on the waitlist to start with, and the organizers will evaluate each person's kayaking abilities before moving them to the going list. Please only sign up if you are serious about going, and keep your RSVP updated if something changes. If you want to bring a non-member guest, please contact the organizer. We have 3 sites reserved close to the boat dock. Please let me know if you are carpooling and sharing a tent; this will allow me to increase the number of attendees.NO-SHOWS and LAST MINUTE CANCELATIONS:
If you do this, make sure to provide a very good explanation to the organizer, otherwise you risk being banned from future camping events. Camping fee is non-refundable unless I manage to replace you with another paying member.TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:
Friday, Sept 5th: Check-in begins at 3PM. Arrive anytime after that and register for your assigned campsite. You will need to pay $10 daily parking fee directly to the camp; this is NOT included in your $20 camping fee. Consider carpooling to save money and avoid parking issues. Set up camp and spend the rest of the day socializing with the group.Saturday, Sept 6th: We will have breakfast, then get the kayaks ready and go paddling on the lake (weather permitting). Other possible activities: Walk on the beach, explore Lincoln City. In the evening we will gather around a bonfire for dinner and social activities.
Sunday, Sept 7th: Have breakfast and start packing up. Check-out time is 1PM. Possible other activities TBD.
CAMPING INFO:
-Please pack everything you would need for a weekend camping trip. REI has a good list on their website. Camping listPAYMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
Your $20 camping fee is due within 48 hours of being moved to the Going list. Please do NOT pay if you are on the waitlist. This covers camping only. You will need to pay additional $10/night parking fee directly to the camp when you check in, even if you are parked at the camp site. Please pay via Venmo to:
@Martin-Simer (if it asks for last 4 digits of phone number, use 7262)
If you don't use Venmo, please message Martin for an alternate payment method (PayPal, Zelle, and cash are all accepted).DISCLAIMER:
Meetup leaders are unpaid volunteers and claim no special expertise or knowledge. By attending this meetup, you agree that you are responsible for your own health, safety, and decision making and that the organizer(s)/host(s) will not be held liable for any injury or health issue you sustain while in attendance. We will participate as a group but ultimately YOU are responsible for your own experience, safety, and decision-making.
