10,000 Islands, Shell Key, Brush Island w/Mango

Meet at 8AM and ON THE WATER by 8:30am!!!

The plan will be to head out from the Goodland Boat Park ramp, down Coon Key Pass and round Tripod Key, then head back up into the backwater towards Shell Key. Lots of little areas to explore along this coast line, especially at high tide. We will round the outer islands and do some open-water paddling in search of a good beach to stop for lunch and socialize or explore on the island for an hour or so before heading back to the Goodland Boat Park. This can also be a good time to practice kayak skills with other paddlers around, once you are done with your lunch. I’m sure the bugs will be prevalent so dress accordingly and bring bug spray if you choose. Make sure you have plenty of water and electrolytes!! Paddling distance will be approximately 10-11 miles round trip. Requirement list at bottom of this post..

Please read the entire text before joining. Participate at your own risk. By signing on to the trip you acknowledge that you are 100% responsible for the safety and security of yourself and your equipment and that the organizer of this trip is not responsible for any loss or injury you incur while participating in, or traveling to or from, this event.
This event is free, but there is a $5 launch fee from the marina per vehicle.

Tides: (Coon Key)
High - 9:50AM
Low - 5:26PM

Know your limits:
This is an intermediate level paddle and requires a minimum of a 14’ - 17’ sea kayak with bulkheads. A good portion of this is an open water paddle for portions so be comfortable in seas anywhere from flat to 3'. There is the potential for some wind exposure along the Gulf side but could be very light as well. Participants must be comfortable performing a Wet Exit and have the ability to perform a Self Rescue. Make sure you are able to cover a distance of around 8-10 miles and hold a pace of approx 3mph. The idea is to be as self sufficient as possible in your kayak.

Requirements:
14’ - 17’ sea kayak
Sprayskirt/PFD w/whistle(must be worn while paddling)
Snacks/water/lunch
Sun protective clothing/hat/sunscreen
Personal basic first aid kit
Bug spray
Launch fee at boat ramp $5

See you at the put-in!
- Mango