What we’re about
The Sarasota Paddle Club is sponsored by SURFit USA, a Sarasota based kayaking, stand up paddleboard, surfing and kayaking company. Our goal is to get people outside and participating in water sports.
If you are looking for regular events related to paddling--this is the place to be!
We can provide rental equipment for a small fee with a reservation. We also do charge for our events (even with your own equipment) for a couple of reasons. We have found that people are likely to show up for events that they have financially committed to and we want you to show up. We also want to be able to compensate our amazing guides for their time. They spend a lot of time planning and hosting events and we feel this is a thing of value.
You can find our events listed here on the Meet-Up Group or on our Sarasota Paddle Club Facebook Page. Events are also listed on the SURFit website at www.surfitusa.com
DISCLAIMER
Each member is responsible for their own safety while on the water or traveling to and from the water way. It is highly recommended by the group organizers that members wear a PFD (personal flotation device). Be sure that you are physically prepared for the challenges that may arise on any event. The group organizers assume no responsibility for your safety or liability in the event of an incident during an event. Know your limitations and make your own decisions. By becoming a member of Sarasota Paddle Club you are also agreeing to indemnify and hold Sarasota Paddle Club, their organizers and or Meet Up harmless from and against any claim, damage, loss, cost, expense, or other liability (including, without limitation any attorney’s fees and costs of defense) in the event a claim is made against Sarasota Paddle Club, their organizers and or Meet Up as a result on your participation in any activity or event.
The Organizers have the right and sole discretion to accept, decline or remove any members at any time from an individual event or from the group entirely.
A Paddleboard is considered a Vessel
All applicable laws and regulations will apply to the use of a 'stand up paddleboard/paddleboard' that pertain to vessels under the U.S.C.G, such as wearing the appropriate USCG approved 'type' of lifejacket pursuant to the waterway being operated under, and not limited to other regulations. The Chief of Boating Safety for the U.S.C.G. has officially recognized a paddleboard as a vessel.
These laws will apply to enforcement of the boating safety regulations for paddleboard specific use. The USCG considers a "paddleboard" to be a vessel upon research and the criteria used and guidance provided in previous legal opinions regarding whether or not it is specified as a vessel under 1 U.S.C.&3. Based upon the information available, the USCG determined when beyond the narrow limits of swimming, surfing or bathing area, the device known as a "paddleboard" is a vessel under 46 U.S.C.&2101, and therefore subject to applicable regulations administered by the US Coast Guard and its Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety, unless specifically exempted.
SHORE POLICY
As a courtesy to others be on time, avoid the risk of being left behind. If you are not going to make it on time, please call or text 941-952-8245 so that we don’t worry.
THE NECESSARY
You will need to bring your own water, sunscreen, bug spray, towel, hat, water cannon, money, snacks and any other item you think you might need for a day trip. Remember to hydrate before you hit the water. It is your responsibility to have all of the required safety equipment aboard your vessel.
