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 (4+)
See all- Tier 1: Nighttime dance on the beach outing. Christmas light practice runSellwood Riverfront Park, Portland, OR
UPDATE: link to add to your Google calendar
This is a first of it's kind event: let's go to an island at sunset, have some fun, snack, swim, watch the sunset and Dance!
This time not ecstatic dance. Just dance.
And on the way back we paddle with the lights. Can be a good test for upcoming Christmas in July setup. Easy safe waterways without much (or any, really) boat traffic.The vision involves being a no/low alcohol event.
Easy 1 mile paddle.
What to pack:
- Kayak (SUP, canoe, bathtub) and all the accessories (seats, skeg, paddles, pump, PFD)
-Lights (try to be visible from all sides)
- Water
- Snacks
- Charcoal (if you happen to have some, write in the comment you are bringing it)
- Wearing a bathing suit might be nice in case we swim
- Towel
- Any fun having things like musical instruments or gamesIf you need a watercraft or have any questions feel free to message Jack.
As of posting of this event I have one spot in my kayak and more watercraft I can lend.Supporting this group:
We are happily accept donations for running of this group. All the money goes towards the (speaker purchase from this event) meetup fees and loaner gear. To donate, please give cash to the event host, or send it via Venmo to @JackBaikov (if it asks for last 4 digits of phone number, they are 7191).
Thank you
Meetup organizers are unpaid volunteers and claim no special expertise or knowledge. We paddle as a group but ultimately you are responsible for your own experience, safety and decision-making. - Tier 3: Camping and Paddling at Cove Palisades State Park (Lake Billy Chinook)Deschutes River Campground, A, B & C Loops, Culver, OR
Please note that this is an adults-only event.
Time to paddle around Lake Billy Chinook/Deschutes River/Crooked River and camp in The Cove Palisades State Park. Read more about the area in this article.
ArticleLOCATION:
IMPORTANT: There is no cell service at the campground. Make sure to look at directions before you start going down the hill. We will be camping in Cove Palisades State Park in the Deschutes Campground! The drive is a little under 3 hours from Portland. We have three tent sites reserved and paid for next to each other in loop B (exact site numbers will be communicated prior to the event). Depending on the total number of people signed up, we will have 2-4 people sharing each site. Please note that campers or camping trailers are not allowed in the tent sites, so if you want to bring a camper, you will have to make your own reservations.
MapATTENDEES:
This is a Tier 3 event, which is meant for experienced kayakers over 21 years of age with a solid history of attending events with our group. Everyone goes on the waitlist to start with, and the organizer will evaluate each person's kayaking abilities before moving them to the going list. We are limiting the total number at the 3 reserved sites to 12. If you are bringing a camper and making your own reservations, please message the organizer. Please only sign up if you are serious about going, and keep your RSVP updated if something changes. If you would like to bring a non-member guest (+1), please contact the organizer.COST:
If we get all 12 people, each person's share of the camping cost will be $16 for the 2 nights, payable to Martin. First vehicle at each site is free; there will be a $7 daily parking charge for a second vehicle, payable to the park. We encourage carpooling to avoid the extra parking fee; please arrange among yourselves. Any cars beyond the 2 allowed at each site will have to park in overflow parking.PAYMENT:
Please pay only if you are on the going list. Do NOT pay if you are on the waitlist.- Venmo to @Martin-Simer (if it asks for last 4 digits of phone number, use 7262). Do NOT mark the payment as 'goods and services'.
- PayPal to martinsimer@gmail.com (please use a bank account or PayPal balance; if you use a credit card, it will subtract a fee from what I receive)
- Cash if you see me at another event
Refunds will be issued up to 2 weeks prior to the event, so 4PM on July 18. Sorry, no refunds after that time.
SCHEDULE:
Friday: Check in time starts at 4PM on Friday, August 1st. Set up camp. Socialize.Saturday: Wake up early, have breakfast, head to the boat ramp, and hit the water! We will be getting some amazing views of towering cliffs and beautiful wildlife! Pack a lunch to eat somewhere on the shore. There will be a bonfire and more socializing in the evening.
Sunday: If you’re an early-bird, please join us on a morning hiking trip near the campsite! Then we pack the cars and check out at 1PM. Feel free to leave anytime you're ready on Sunday, but please leave no trace and pack out what you packed in, including trash.
CAMPING/PADDLING:
-Make sure to have a Waterway Access Permit if your vessel is 10' or more (FAQ) We had our permits checked by the rangers at this location in the past.-Please pack everything you would need for a multi-day camping trip. REI has a good list on their website. Camping list You won't necessarily need everything on this list, but it is a good place to start. Please remember to pack clothes and a sleeping setup based on the weather and bring a headlamp!
-There is access to a toilet, shower, and extra parking for additional vehicles. There will be a fire ring, a picnic table, and access to water nearby.
-Firewood should be available for purchase at the campground.
-The paddle on Saturday will be multiple hours, please plan to bring enough hydration and sunscreen (or sun protective clothing) to keep yourself safe on the water. Also don’t forget your PFD and whistle (and your actual watercraft too).
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.
