Paddle to Fort Sumter - Level 3

PLEASE READ ALL THE INFORMATION CAREFULLY!!! W**e want everyone to have an enjoyable experience - be sure you are signing up for an event you are prepared for.

This Meetup is free of charge for Coastal Kayak Club members!

Each event is listed on a skill level (1, 2 or 3) See the bottom of the page for a description of experience required.

This is LEVEL 3 EVENT: Suitable for the VERY EXPERIENCED SEA KAYAKER ONLY. The level three paddler MUST have a reliable self-recovery technique as well as training in assisting others in rescue situations. Open waters. Winds up to 15 knots and waves or swells less than 3 feet - consistent fast pace - distances in excess of 12 – 18 miles. Spray skirts and personal safety gear are a must. Sea kayaks of at least 14' with bow & stern bulkheads required.

This is NOT a guided trip - just a bunch of folks gathering to get out on the water. If you are unable to keep pace with the group you will be responsible for making your way back to the launch location on your own.

We would like to be ON THE WATER by 6pm. Please arrive with enough time to unload and park for a timely departure. Our safety briefing will be at 5:45pm and we will be on the water by 6pm. We will NOT be able to wait for late arrivals.

Plan to be on the water for about 3 hours.

*Please be aware there are no facilities at this location so please plan accordingly!

As always:
This is a MeetUp event and you are responsible for your own safety. Life jackets must be fitted properly and WORN at all times.

Part of this paddle will be in the dark so be sure to have the CORRECT LIGHTING!. According to SC boating regulations (rule 25) each kayaker is requires to carry a light and DNR is enforcing this and failure to comply may result in a fine of $250.

*LEVEL 1: Ideal for a less experienced kayaker (or a more experienced kayaker looking for a slower paced event). This is NOT for someone with no kayaking experience. Mostly calm waters - moderate pace - distances typically 4 - 6 total miles. Any type of kayak is appropriate but we will keep a consistent pace. Sit-On-Tops, inflatables, some small recreational kayaks and fold up kayaks may struggle to keep pace.

*LEVEL 2**:** PRIOR SEA KAYAKING EXPERIENCE REQUIRED. Prior safety training highly recommended. Semi-open or open waters - faster pace - distances typically 7 - 10 total miles. Some chop and waves. Most people will be in a sea kayak to be able to cover the distance with a consistent pace.

*LEVEL 3: Suitable for the VERY EXPERIENCED SEA KAYAKER ONLY. The level three paddler MUST have a reliable self-recovery technique as well as training in assisting others in rescue situations. Open waters. Winds up to 15 knots and waves or swells less than 3 feet - consistent fast pace - distances in excess of 12 – 18 miles. Spray skirts and personal safety gear are a must. Sea kayaks of at least 14' with bow & stern bulkheads required.