Introduction to Currents (Level 3)

This class is limited to OOPS members who are WEC.  Registration will occur at the DP Event HQ campsite.

Reminder: Registration for every trip is always conditional upon final approval by the Trip Organizer.  The TO may contact you to assess whether your skills & equipment are appropriate for the trip.

Narrative: Come learn to paddle in currents. Meet at parking area on Whidbey Island side of the bridge at 0830. We will spend a bit of time looking at the water and then move to Cornet Bay for a “classroom” presentation.currents. After currents discussion, at about 1100, we will suit up and practice some skills in Cornet Bay prior to heading to canoe pass on a decaying ebb. We will practice on the decaying ebb and the building flood. We will work on getting into and out of eddies, crossing currents, and eddy hopping.  

Bring lunch, snacks, water, pen and paper, and coffee if you like with you.
Meeting Time: 9:00:00 AM
Launch Time: 11:15:00 AM
Type of activity: Class
Put in: Cornet Bay
Take out: Cornet Bay
Route Alternative for bad weather: none
Required equipment: Helmet
Minimum Immersion protection: Drysuit
Primary Organizer: Vern Brown
Assistant Organizer(s):  
Has organizer paddled here before? Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before? Yes
Organizer's first aid and CPR current? Yes
First Aid /CPR Person:  
Maximum number of paddlers: 6 students; 5 instructors
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature: 70
Estimated Water Temperature: 50
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch): 3.5 hours
Tide times & heights:  
Current information: 4.0 knots is fastest water we will paddle in
Hazards: Shipping traffic
Wind strength: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves
Sea state: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents: Level 3: Up to 4 knots: paddlers must sprint to move forward
Total distance: Level 1: Up to 6 miles
Open crossing: Level 2: Less than 1 mile
Paddling Environment:  
Overall rating: Level 3
Rating Comments:  
Location (Optional):  
Photos (optional):