Saugatuck River launch thru the Norwalk Islands!

Lets try this again: PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE POSTING BEFORE SIGNING UP!

Please arrive early to get yourself situated. We will launch promptly at 10:00 am. There will be a mandatory meeting at 9:45 am, waivers must be signed etc. Get there early to park, set up your boat and be ready. This is an Intermediate Paddle for experienced kayakers, not suitable for beginners. The river is tidal and we will not wait. Do not block the launch area, stage your boats on the side.

We will paddle past Peck's Ledge Light and thru the islands to enjoy the beauty of the LI sound. We'll have a lunch stop on an island. Then we will proceed to Sheffield Is. Total distance 14 miles.

There will also be a shorter paddle led by George of approximately 7 miles, in addition to the full 14 mile paddle. Please put in comments your preference of distance so we know how many on each. We will start out together as 1 group and will split up depending on conditions. We may have different lunch stops, please stay in the group you signed up for. The group continuing to Sheffield will be faster & conditions will determine the route. There may be an optional stop at Calf Pasture for ice cream so bring a little cash. We want to avoid the low tide sludge when we come back.

Sea kayaks only 14' minimum, NO canoes, SOT's SUP's, Inflatables, Rafts or pets allowed. Surfskis Ok.

Dress for immersion, pack sunscreen, lunch, water, meds anything you need for a day trip. Please put a change of clothes, in a dry bag and put it in your hatch. PFD'S MUST be worn & fastened at all times. No exceptions.

Keep in mind that swells, currents, wind, tides, and other natural factors not found in inland venues will require vigilance and an honest self-assessment of your skills and conditioning before you decide to venture out. This is a gathering of people enjoying a common interest, not a guided tour, so your personal safety is your responsibility alone. You should know how to assist/self rescue and keep a pace with the group. This is an intermediate paddle at a pace.

Low tide @ Saugatuck river is 4:35 pm, 1.08'; Hi tide is 10:33 am, 6.40', slack 11:30 am, ebb 2:02 pm - 0.3 kts. Sunset 8:31 pm, moon Waxing Gibbous.

The launch is on Elaine Rd past the Westport town sewage treatment plant, turn left under the hwy into the parking lot. There is a port o potty.
No guests on this paddle, everyone must sign up for themselves.

Check back the Friday before for a weather update.
my cell---if needed (845) 548-2198.