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PADDLING THE PACIFIC COAST AND BEYOND
JANUARY–MARCH 2008
WaveLength
MAGAZINE
CRUISING WITH KAYAKS
Drury Inlet Dreamscapes
Why Offshore Cruisers Love Their Kayaks
PM 40010049
Choosing a Mothership
PLUS KAYAK FISHING • TRAK KAYAK REVIEW
KAKAKING RITUALS • THE 3 GOLDEN RULES
FREE
AT SELECT OUTLETS
OR BY SUBSCRIPTION
www.wavelengthmagazine.com
Sean Morley piloting the Rush
2007 World Surf Champion
Valley
Surf Kayak
Centre
8
Rush
7’6” x 24”
Pro Kevlar and Ultra Kevlar
Storm
7’10” x 24.5”
Linear Polyethylene
2
Half page 2008 - Valley Surf.ind1 1
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
00
in 2
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Ne
Rip
Ecomarine
in Vancouver
604-689-7575
ecomarine.com
30/11/2007 12:21:38 PM
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© 2007 Arkema Inc. All rights reserved.
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
3
Crease Island anchorage, Broughton Archipelago – photo by Ron Mumford
Contents
8
18
Mothership Kayaking Is Not Always Black and White
With the ink barely dry on
new vessel sewage regulations
which were introduced in 2007
under the Canada Shipping
Act, there is now some talk of
the federal government looking
into grey water regulation.
by Mike Richards
This summer we spent five
days aboard the MV Sea Foam
exploring the nooks and crannies in the wilderness of Drury
Inlet, where low lying islands
hug the water and great heaves
of mountain thrust their peaks
heavenward.
by Carol-Ann Giroday
12
20
Different Strokes
I was Robinson Crusoe with
an entire island to myself. I explored trails through the towering Douglas fir forest and sat
on rocky points.
by Hans Tammemagi
Cruising around Martinique
this year, I met a slew of cruisers with kayaks, and every one
had a different take.
by Barbara Gail Warden
14
22
But before the selection process
begins, potential buyers will
likely have established a set of
criteria that will help narrow
down their choices.
by Ron Mumford
4
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Kayaking in Paradise
Kayaking Rituals for the New Year
Since we’re close to the turn of
the year, it’s time to offer some
new paddling “traditions.”
by Neil Schulman
24
26
28
30
32
34
40
42
44
Editorial
REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS
Exercising the Angling Option
Fishing Angles
by Dan Armitage
Dan Armitage is a boating, fishing
and travel writer based in the Midwest. He is a licensed (USCG Master)
captain, hosts a syndicated radio
show, and presents kayak fishing and
photography seminars at boat shows.
Bahamian Fishing
by Ben Mumford
Trak T-1600 Sea Kayak
28
Kayak Review
by Alex Matthews
Adam Bolonsky is a kayak fishing
guide and fitness expert, based near
Gloucester, Massachusetts.
WindPaddle Kayak Sail
You can read Adam’s lively blog at
paddlingtravelers.blogspot.com
Product Review
by Adam Bolonsky
The 3 Golden Rules
Skillset
by Alex Matthews
34
Alex Matthews is WaveLength’s
gear reviewer and writes our paddling
skills columns. He has authored and coauthored several kayaking skills books
and has been involved in the design
and development of kayaks.
[email protected]
Mothership Options
Navigating the Materials Maze
Getting Started
by Alex Matthews
Ceviche
Paddle Meals
by Hilary Masson
Hilary Masson, our Paddle Meals
contributor, is a guide and part owner
of Baja Kayak Adventure Tours Ltd.
www.bajakayakadventures.com
40
Endless Love:
The Water Cycle for Kayakers
Bryan Nichols is a marine biologist
and science writer from Vancouver
Island who is currently working on
a PhD and a tan in Tampa. He’d
probably get done quicker if he wasn’t
trying to kayak around all of Florida’s
Gulf Coast barrier islands.
by Bryan Nichols
48
Book and DVD Reviews
50
WaveLength Bookstore
53
Events
54
Coastal News
56
The Marketplace
60
Loafer’s Log
by Diana Mumford
44
Neil Schulman’s writing and photography have appeared in numerous
magazines and publications. He also
does environmental work in Portland,
Oregon.
© Wade Norton photo
6
by Ron Mumford
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
5
editorial
WaveLength
MAGAZINE
January–March 2008
Volume 18, Number 1
PM No. 40010049
Editor – Diana Mumford
[email protected]
Publisher – Ron Mumford
RMumford@PacificEdgePublishing.com
Copy Editing – Jenni Gehlbach
Marketing – Ben Mumford
Ben@PacificEdgePublishing.com
Webmaster – Paul Rudyk
Writing not otherwise credited is by WL staff.
Cover: Rick LeBlanc photo - Fury Cove, Penrose
Island, just north of Rivers Inlet.
SAFE PADDLING is an individual responsibility. We
recommend that inexperienced paddlers seek expert
instruction and advice about local conditions, have all the
required gear and know how to use it. The publishers of this
magazine and its contributors are not responsible for how
the information in these pages is used by others.
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I
t’s early January as I write this—the beginning of a new year—and with fresh
calendar pages hanging expectantly on the wall, come dreams for new endeavors, resolutions for change and the promise of more paddling!
We have focused on “cruising with kayaks” for part of this issue of WaveLength,
with possibilities for exploring new territory aboard a guided mothership or with
kayaks on the deck of your own boat. Alex Matthews reviews a folding kayak that
might be the perfect solution if bagging a kayak makes more sense that storing one
on deck, and explains the pros and cons of kayak construction materials for those who
are considering a new kayak this year. If you’re ready to expand your horizons in a
different way—by adding sailing to your repertoire—Adam Bolonsky has tried out a
new kayak sail that will really get you moving (downwind at least). Neil Schulman has
some suggestions for new traditions for your paddling group to build skills and have
fun at the same time.
To help you enjoy your kayak in another way that will be new to some readers at
least, I am delighted to welcome Dan Armitage as a WaveLength columnist. Dan has
agreed to share his expertise in a column dedicated to kayak fishing. Dan brings his
experience as a freelance outdoors writer, syndicated radio program host, magazine
editor and keen paddler and angler to our new “Fishing Angles” column. Dan is also
a popular speaker at sport and boat shows throughout the US, where he conducts
“Kids’ Fishing Fun” seminars for children and their parents. He was recently honored by the National Water Safety Congress with a regional award in recognition of
his accomplishments and contributions to water safety, was named Ohio’s “Safe Boating Educator of the Year” for his “Don’t Blame the Boat” brochure and video, and he
designed the “Hey, PWC Riders!” launch ramp signage that is distributed by the Safe
Boating Council. We are very happy that Dan has decided to join the WaveLength
team. (Speaking of columnists, Dan Lewis and Alan Wilson are taking a break, and
hopefully will be back in the next issue.)
As you can see, there is lots of potential for new paddling experiences included in
this first issue of WaveLength for the new year, and I hope that it inspires your plans
for adventures in 2008.
PS If supporting a marine environmental organization is one of your New Year’s
Resolutions, please visit WaveLengthMagazine.com and click on the Associations link
under the Resources heading. Scroll down for a list of organizations that work to
protect west coast waterways. If your favorite organization is not listed, please send
us a note.
Printed on recycled ancient rainforest-free paper.
6
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
7
Story by Carol-Ann Giroday
Photos by Rick LeBlanc
F
or Rick and I, mothership kayaking offers all the joys of paddling
without the discomfort that can be
associated with kayak expeditions—like
rain, wet gear and loaded kayaks. Our
boat, the MV Sea Foam, a 40 ft. pilot
house trawler, is a comfortable home to
us year round, and a great vessel in which
to explore our coastal waters. We have a
substantial tender that we use as a scuba
dive platform, and two 12.5 ft. Necky
Santa Cruise kayaks. We also carry fishing equipment, crab and prawn traps
to satisfy our seafood cravings, a small
freezer, an excellent reference library
and first-rate satellite music for lazy days
and quiet evenings. Our mothership acts
as a mobile, floating base where a hot
meal and a dry bed await at the end of
the paddling day. We nudge the noses of
our kayaks into intimate passages during
the day, and by late afternoon meet up
with the Sea Foam for hot showers, a glass
of wine and splendid meals cooked in
the small but efficient galley. Nights are
cozy in the glow of the saloon lamps as
we relax around the table.
This summer we spent five days
aboard the MV Sea Foam exploring the
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
nooks and crannies in the wilderness
of Drury Inlet, on BC’s Central Coast,
where low lying islands hug the water
and great heaves of mountain thrust their
peaks heavenward. While the Broughton
Archipelago is a popular cruising and
paddling destination during the summer
months, Drury Inlet is among the least
traveled in the region. Unlike most mainland inlets, Drury’s head is northwest of
its mouth, and although most inlets are
steep-shored, Drury’s terrain is relatively
flat, allowing the prevailing westerlies to
whip down-inlet. Southeast winds can
make travel unpleasant here as well.
Tidal rapids guard Drury’s mouth, and
the current in Stuart Narrows can reach
seven knots on large tides. Navigation
can be challenging once past Jennis Bay,
but it is well worth the effort to explore
this inlet. Scenery, excellent anchorages
and diversion abound here for those with
an adventurous spirit.
We arrived at Stuart Narrows, west
of Wells Passage at slack tide. With the
help of guidebooks, we navigated past
the hazards at the narrowest part of Stuart Narrows and proceeded west up the
inlet, finding it to be a considerable body
of water. The low surrounding land was
forested with second growth timber and
had obviously been heavily logged over
the years. Beyond the narrows, the most
popular anchorages are Richmond Bay,
Jennis Bay and Sutherland Bay. They all
have reasonable all-weather protection
and good holding.
As we negotiated past Welde Rock, we
approached Richmond Bay to port and
proceeded to the eastern side of the bay
and anchored where we had a view up
the inlet to Ligar Islet and beyond. The
winds for the night were predicted to be
variable so we weren’t worried about a
strong westerly blowing in on us. It was
a quiet night with a striking sunset, and
the morning sky the next day was equally
beautiful. The plan for our first full day
in Drury was to paddle west up the inlet
about three miles and visit the marina at
Jennis Bay.
Allyson and Tom Allo are the new
owner occupants of the marina property
at Jennis Bay, once owned by Allyson’s father many years ago. When the property
(including the docks, house and some
shore-front land) again became available,
Allyson and one of her brothers bought
it and secured provincial permission to
establish an eco-resort. They have lived
there for two years, and enthusiastic, eager, and very welcoming, they have big
plans for a four-chalet resort that can accommodate up to sixteen guests.
Six boats were tied to the dock as we
approached and were met by Allyson and
Tom and their two young children. The
marina, with its cookhouse and gift shop,
has become a popular spot for boaters
since it started in the summer of 2006.
Many logging roads surround this area
and Tom will happily take adventurers in
his truck to nearby Huaskin Lake to fish,
kayak or just explore.
They are proposing to expand their
seasonal services and activities in coming years to include three and four-day
adventure packages with “historic logging camp style” accommodations and
dining, advanced geo-cache treasure
hunts, cold water diving and freshwater
and saltwater fishing with local contractors. They are getting geared up to have
accommodations available for visitors in
2008. Tenting is an option as well.
Allyson mentioned there was a memorial in Helen Bay near Welde Rock for a
tug boat captain and crew member who
lost their lives when their tug and barge
lost control in the tidal water. The next
day we searched the north shoreline two
miles east of our anchorage and found
the memorial on the rocks on the southwest side of Helen Bay.
As we paddled back to the Sea Foam,
we met another boater fishing from his
tender at Leche Rocks. He told us there
was good ling cod fishing in the Richmond Bay area and that he had caught a
45 inch cod the week before in this spot.
Around Leche Islet was his favorite place
to fish as the underwater rocky terrain is
perfect habitat for ling cod.
The next morning we motored up to
the Muirhead Islands and dropped anchor in a small notch behind an islet at
the northeast end of the group. We were
in the midst of a cluster of rocks and
islets—exactly the sort of formation in
which we love to paddle. Once anchored
and secure, we took the kayaks off the
roof of the pilot house and prepared for
another adventure. We had a gorgeous
paddle in the lagoon-like hidden channels among evergreen encrusted rocky
islets, tree limbs draped in lichens and
shores thick with moss.
Next morning we pulled up anchor
and headed out into Drury Inlet and
north into Actress Passage. This passage
requires close attention to the charts and
the helm, and should be transited only
at slack according to our guidebooks. We
found Peter Vassilopoulos’ North of Desolation Sound (ISBN 0919317324) with its
vibrant photographs to be particularly
helpful for this area, which is narrow and
rock strewn. We were glad we didn’t have
to deal with strong current our first time
through.
We anchored in Skeene Bay and were
pleased to find that it was out of the current and the prevailing winds. Skeene
Bay is a lovely anchorage with a spectacular view of Mount Bullock to the northeast. Unless the winds are coming from
the east, the small anchorage is tranquil
and still.
Once anchored, we packed a picnic
lunch and prepared to depart on a ten
mile round trip into Actaeon Sound.
The current would be in our favor until
1800 and then would switch and push us
homeward. At 1400 we paddled out into
the current in the narrows just outside
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
9
Boaters enjoying pot-luck at Jennis Bay Marina.
our anchorage. We had only to steer the
kayaks, as the flood current was pushing
us along at a good clip.
We paddled up to Bond Lagoon that
is only passable for larger vessels at high
tide because of the rocks at its entrance.
As this was the middle of the rising tide,
the water was rushing through the narrow opening into the lagoon. We paddled as close as we dared, being careful
not to get sucked in, knowing we’d have
no hope of getting out for several hours.
We continued on along Actaeon
Sound and next came to Creasy Bay on
our port side. It is a large bay and the
wind was funneling through Actaeon
Sound over the treetops into the bay. We
paddled along the western shoreline and
explored some old logging debris inside
a boom breakwater. Along this shore are
decade-old ruins from past logging days
as well as new equipment from operations underway along the hillside up to
Creasy Lake. At the end of the bay was a
steam donkey on a rotting barge, further
evidence of past logging activity.
By now we were getting hungry and
were looking for a place to get out and
stretch our legs. The area had little in
the way of landing beaches, and trees
grew right along the water line. There
were two small islets on the east side of
Creasy Bay where we could have enjoyed
our lunch and the sun if the wind hadn’t
been blowing so hard. We paddled into a
mud flat bay just south of England Point
and found an old barge beached at the
back of the bay.
We climbed out of our kayaks a short
distance from England Point on a small
outcropping of rocks. Around the corner
was a building that we thought was ei10
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
ther a fish farm or logging quarters. Just
beyond that was Tsibass Lagoon where,
when it is emptying, there is such a rush
of water flowing that the sound is covered with foam.
As we ate our lunch, a tug, the Fraser
Yarder, was heading toward the lagoon
pulling a small log boom. Within about
twenty minutes she was coming back
down empty and the skipper slowed
down so his wake would not bang our
kayaks against the shoreline. Rick called
him on our handheld VHF to thank him
for his courtesy and they had a chat before signing off.
When we climbed into our kayaks for
the return trip to the Sea Foam, the clouds
had rolled in and the wind had picked up.
We were pushing against a one foot chop
so I paddled closer to shore in an attempt
to find calmer water. It was at its worst at
Creasy Bay where it was more open and
the wind slid down off the rocks and out
from the opening of Bond Lagoon.
When we turned the corner at Bond
Lagoon and headed west, the wind
was there to greet us and the ebb current was not helping as much as we had
hoped. It wasn’t until we were almost at
our anchorage that the current gave us
a welcome lift. Just as when we left, the
current was really only noticeable at the
bend at Skeene Bay where Actress Passage turned into Actaeon Sound.
After breakfast the following day we
wanted to depart Skeene Bay. It is recommended to travel through the narrows only at high water slack, but high
slack would not be until late afternoon
and we didn’t want to wait that long. The
current was still ebbing when Rick took
our tender through the area to check the
strength and condition of the current
flow. He decided that it would be fine to
go, and added he would rather see the
rock “alligators” at low tide as long as the
current was not too much of a hazard.
We passed through Actress Passage
without incident and as we entered
Drury Inlet we noticed another yacht
enjoying the anchorage we had left in
the Muirhead Islands. We pointed the
Sea Foam eastward and carried on out
to Wells Passage to further explore the
beauty of the Broughton Archipelago.
As we motored away I thought of two
of Kenneth Grahame’s characters from
the Wind in the Willows—cautious Mole
and boat-loving Water Rat. Emerging
from his home at Mole End one spring,
Mole’s whole world changed when he
hooked up with the good-natured Water
Rat and was told, “Believe me, my young
friend, there is NOTHING—absolute
nothing—half so much worth doing as
simply messing about in boats.”
We agree with Ratty!
•••••
Getting There
Without A Mothership
Air Service: Pacific Eagle Aviation in Port McNeill,
Vancouver Island, has two daily scheduled flights
to Jennis Bay. Approximately $126 per person with
25 lbs. luggage allowance, length of flight is approximately 15 minutes. 250-956-3339.
Water Taxi Service: Shawl Bay Water Taxi from Port
McNeill to Jennis Bay has two vessels. The smaller
vessel is $275 one-way and can carry 3 people and
gear, including kayaks/bikes, etc. It takes approximately 1 hr. 30 min. from Port McNeill to Jennis Bay.
Their large boat can carry 6 people and gear for $375
one-way. 250-483-4169. 
affix to inner hull
sprayskirts | tow lines | sponges | drain plugs | mec.ca
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
11
Why Offshore Cruisers Love Their Kayaks
by Barbara Gail Warden
O
ffshore cruisers have pretty
similar tastes in kayaks: light
(to stow aboard without adding
weight), sit-on-top (to avoid swamping,
and to let waves on deck wash through
those little holes), space for two if possible. I’ve seen seat #2 filled by child, dog,
charcoal, groceries and dog-eared books
in Ziploc bags.
But cruisers definitely don’t have the
same reasons for loving their kayaks.
Rationales I’ve heard for toting another
boat along: stress relief, boat “bikes,” the
bug that wouldn’t get out of William’s
head, a second car. Cruising around
Martinique this year, I met a slew of
cruisers with kayaks, and every one had
a different take.
Michele and Michelle Nalide from
Toulon, France, have had their Lagoon
380 catamaran Pinaki six years, but just
added two kayaks last year. The Ms keep
their kayaks secured to lifelines in port
for easy launching, but quickly learned
to lash them tightly on the forward deck
for passages, as kayaks are notoriously
prone to washing over the side in big
waves—common in the steady 25 to 30
knot trade winds and 10 foot seas off
Martinique! Asked what they like best
12
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
about the kayaks, Michelle says “Maintenant, comme nous avons deux voitures.”
Now, it’s like we have two cars.
“When you start cruising, sailing
keeps you busy, but now I can’t imagine
how we did without them,” says Debbie
from Sea U Manana. “Getting kayaks was
like getting bikes for the kids. We anchor
close in (easy on their Prout 50 catamaran, with about a two-foot draft), the kids
push the kayaks over the bow and take
them to the beach. They get freedom, we
get privacy, and we can see them from
the boat.” Chatty Debbie and strong
silent Peter Verstoep from Manitoba,
Canada, found kayak number one on
the beach in the Exuma Islands in the
Bahamas. While Debbie was picking up
shells, she glanced down the beach and
spotted what looked like a body bag—
long, dark green, almost covered in sand
and seaweed. “She sent me to investigate the corpse,” says Peter dryly. What
he uncovered was a Wilderness Systems
kayak in pristine condition. With no apparent owners—indeed, they saw no one
for miles, or days—the kayak had a new
home. “And the boys loved it so much,
we had to buy another one, which we did
in St Maarten, the first place we saw sitJANUARY–MARCH 2008
on-top kayaks. It’s another Wilderness
Systems, because it’s nice to have matching ones,” says Debbie cheerfully. But the
real value of the kayaks for Debbie and
Peter lies in the atmosphere they bring to
family exploration. “In a dinghy, you’re
hurrying, buzzing along with the engine
going. On a kayak, it’s peaceful. Beautiful, silent...” The Verstoeps have paddled
their kayaks through still sunset waters in
the British Virgin Islands, in the erratic
coves of the Dominican Republic, and
up hushed and remote rivers in Dominica. “Some islands just speak to you,”
says Peter. “Kayaks let you explore them
without intruding.”
“I see you’re looking at my stress reliever,” says a husky voice as I gaze at
the first ride-inside kayak I’ve seen on
a cruising boat. I look around, behind,
then finally down, to see Jane Baum eyeing me from the dinghy lashed alongside
37 foot Cheetah II in the busy marina.
Jane is cleaning the hull of the growth
that appears within days in the Caribbean, while watching me study their innovative upside-down over-the-stern kayak
framework. Deeply tanned Dick and
Jane (really) Baum have been cruisers
for almost eight years, initially with their
dog Spot (really), who has since gone to
Dalmatian heaven but whose memory
lives on aboard Cheetah II. Avid kayakers before becoming cruisers, Dick and
Jane had his-and-hers Infinity kayaks for
years. “Some of the old ones,” says Jane,
“just like our boat.” They left “his” at
home (mostly for space).
“Most cruisers prefer sit-on-tops—do
you find this kind swamps?” I ask.
“No, I never swamp it,” says Jane immediately.
“But she tries,” adds Dick.
“Well, once I did.”
“You’re really kayakers though,” I
say, “so if you flip, can you just roll up?”
Debbie looks amused.
“Well, no. But I can swim out,” she
adds, grinning. “And it really is my stress
reliever. Whenever the boat gets too
close, you know,” with a sidelong look
at her husband, “I just jump in and take
off ! I’ve kayaked from the boat all over
the Gulf coast, the Bahamas...”
“Several times,” adds Dick. Next up
for Dick and Jane: Kayaking off Trinidad, Tobago, then around and up to the
beautiful San Blas Islands off the coast
of Panama.
I meet up with another French couple
cruising with kayaks after recapturing
more high school French: Patrick and
Catherine Dannion on their 41 foot
steel Voilier, Cap Eol, with dog and kayak
aboard. Sailing through the Caribbean,
Patrick and Catherine kayaked most
recently in St. Martin (Anse Marse),
and St. Bart, and when I dinghy up to
Cap Eol to ask about their kayak habits,
they’re about to launch their kayaks in
Martinique. They say they’re intentionally favoring French ports, but not for
the food—it’s because they only speak
French!
After visiting kayaking friends in
Maine shortly before taking off in 2005
on Alouette (a Shannon 43), Sue, John,
and kids Katie and William DeLong
really wanted a kayak. Especially William. So that year, Santa brought an
inflatable, stowable Savenor with plastic
skeg to enable it to track. Guess what.
It didn’t. The Savenor, while fun for
play (my nephews happily use theirs
river rafting in upstate Vermont), wasn’t
what William had in mind. Friends had
shown them stroke techniques, and how
to back, and the inflatable didn’t cut it.
Fortunately, near Isla Caja de Muertos
off Salinas, Puerto Rico, what did they
spy but a kayak, adrift in the water with
no boats in sight. (If this seems oddly
common, remember big waves love to
wash things off decks.) They sailed into
Salinas and asked around, but found no
claimers. Thus, they gained a kayak, and
boy, have they used it. They started in
Puerto Rico, continued around Virgin
Gorda, the Dominican Republic, and
St. Lucia, where they use the kayak to
get to the beach without launching their
pristine dinghy with its fabulous one-pull
outboard. As Sue and John reorganize
their canned goods—an all-important
cruising occupation—I watch the kids
handily maneuver the kayak in a choppy harbor with 25 knot winds. Cruising
skills pay off in kayaking.
And kayaks pay off in cruising. In privacy, peace, togetherness, solitude, and
good healthy exercise, kayaks more than
repay their initial investment.
Barbara Gail Warden, a former marketing exec
turned freelance writer, divides her time between
New England and the Caribbean. 
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
13
by Ron Mumford
W
hen attending the West Coast
Sea Kayak Symposium at
Port Townsend and Paddlefest
on Vancouver Island, we have watched
people coming to kick the tires, so to
speak, of the array of kayaks stretched
out along the beach. When you look at
the variety—long, short, narrow, wide,
single, double, fiberglass, plastic, wood,
folding, inflatable—you wonder how
anyone could possibly choose.
But before the selection process begins, potential buyers will likely have established a set of criteria that will help
narrow down their choices. If they plan
to paddle with a partner, they may be
looking at doubles; if they have aspirations for multi-day expeditions, they will
be looking at boats with longer waterlines
and the capacity to carry lots of gear; or
if they want to carry a kayak on a mothership, they will look at the smaller recreational kayaks that are light and stable
and easy to stow on a power or sail boat.
Kayak symposiums are the ideal opportunity to “try before you buy” and to take
advantage of the helpful advice of many
experienced paddlers all assembled in
one place.
You will be faced with at least as much
diversity to choose from if, at some point,
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you come to the realization that purchasing a mothership makes sense for you. It
may come from your desire to extend the
range and variety of your kayaking experiences, or you may want more comfortable accommodation while kayaking
the coast. Finding a suitable boat is even
more daunting than selecting your first
kayak when you consider the complexity
of power and sail boats and the financial
investment they require.
After years of cruising the coast on
various vessels, we became boatless for
a number of reasons. We borrowed
friends’ boats for a few years, in exchange
for helping with maintenance, and then
moved to kayaks as a simpler alternative to owning a boat. The year we got
our first kayaks, 14 foot Necky Zoars, we
carried them on the top of a tent trailer
to Bamfield. We had a great time that
summer paddling in and around Bamfield and Grappler Inlets and the Deer
Group, but having the kayaks rekindled
our desire to have a big boat again so we
could explore our old cruising haunts
by kayak. Finding a suitable boat this
time was more complicated than previous searches because this time the boat
had to function as a mothership to our
kayaks.
But, like selecting a kayak, having answers to some questions and a clearly defined set of criteria helps to narrow the
field of possibilities and focus the search.
When you know what features are most
important to you, you can go to the Internet to see what is available, then walk
some docks and “kick some tires.” Here
are some questions that helped us choose
our mothership.
How much do we have to spend?
As with any major purchase, your
budget will influence what you look at.
More money will allow you the luxury
to consider better quality construction, a
newer or bigger boat and more or better
accessories.
Power or Sail?
Sailboats win hands down for being
the most economical and environmentally friendly means of marine transportation. Nothing (except maybe paddling)
beats cruising along at hull speed under
full sail, making no noise and burning no
fuel. Also, having two modes of propulsion is reassuring for safety reasons.
Nevertheless, we were looking for
a powerboat this time. We started our
cruising experiences on sailboats, and
even though we still love to sail, we found
that for cruising this coast, especially
northern Vancouver Island and Central
Coast, with its long, narrow inlets, tidal
currents and cooler temperatures, power
makes better sense for us. Our cruising
time is limited and we like to get a fair
distance from home, so the power option allows us to get where we want to
go more quickly, and we can travel more
comfortably in rain and low temperatures. Also, we like to see out when we’re
down below, and powerboats generally
have bigger windows and better visibility
when you’re inside.
How big does the boat need to be?
With three of us in the family, we figured a boat in the mid thirty foot range
would provide the type of accommodation we were looking for: enclosed head,
comfortable sleeping, functional galley,
a big enough dinette, outdoor seating
space and adequate storage.
A number of popular trawler style
boats have this kind of accommodation
(e.g., Grand Banks, CHB, Albin and
Marine Trader). They have the added
benefit of three separate living areas—
an aft cabin, which usually contains an
enclosed head and sleeping area; a midship space with a galley, dinette and settee; and a forward cabin with a second
head and sleeping berths. This tri-cabin
configuration is very popular with families and couples who like to cruise with
guests. With the long waterline of a 34
– 38 foot boat, you can expect to cruise
at an economical 8 knots and have the
stability to comfortably handle most sea
conditions you encounter.
How easy will it be to enter and exit
the kayaks?
A swim grid was one of our main
boat-search criteria, because of how simple it is to get in and out of a kayak when
you are down near water level. A high
freeboard hull with no swim grid would
make life pretty difficult.
How/where will the kayaks be carried?
This question pretty much eliminated
or admitted boats to our short list right
away. If there was no place to carry three
kayaks without causing safety and convenience issues, we moved on. We also
wanted ease of loading and unloading
the kayaks. After cruising one year on
a boat with very high freeboard, which
meant a long haul up and down every
time we launched or picked up the kayaks, a lower hull seemed appealing.
Wood or Glass?
Like kayaks, boats are constructed
from various materials. Fiberglass and
wood are the most common for pleasure
boats; work boats are often built of durable and maintenance free aluminum.
I’ve always preferred wood boats—I like
the feel, the look and the smell of wood,
and I much prefer working on wood
boats (which is a good thing because
they require constant maintenance) so
we looked for a wood boat in good condition. If you’re considering fiberglass,
watch for compression cracks around
deck fittings and blistering below the waterline. These symptoms could be signs
of serious underlying problems.
Gas or Diesel?
There is no doubt in my mind—diesel
engines are the preferred source of power for both sail and powerboats. They are
safer (less chance of fire or explosion),
less troublesome and usually more fuel
efficient. Gas engines are quieter and
cheaper to repair and replace however,
and gas is cleaner burning—no black
soot on your transom or dinghy. Given
the choice, I would choose a diesel engine, but they cost more, so if budget is
a factor, as it was for us, you should keep
that in mind. The price of diesel has recently exceeded that of gas, so the differ>>
ence in economics is narrowing.
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
15
What gear do we need?
Other important considerations we
looked for were good ground tackle for
anchoring, electronics for navigation and
communications, reasonable fuel and
water capacity and holding tanks (now
mandatory for anchoring in some harbors).
Don’t forget the beauty!
Boats are one of life’s pleasures that
appeal to their owners in unique and
unpredictable ways. You will fall in love
with one boat and not give another a
second glance. Because she will demand
your time and money, you really need to
feel a special connection to her—you will
likely know what this feels like even before you step aboard.
Our Final Choice
After months of Internet and on-theground searches, we purchased Loafer
II, a 35 foot, wooden Chris Craft, built
in 1968. She is a Picnic style boat—a
style that is seeing a resurgence in the
new boat market. They characteristically
have a single, covered steering station,
which means only one set of electronics to purchase and maintain, unlike
boats with a flying bridge which generally have two of everything. The deck
over the wheelhouse is ideal for carrying
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
our three kayaks. We can get our son’s
9 foot Lightspeed Enigma and our two
12.10 Deltas, both very light kayaks, up
and down easily. The boat’s low freeboard makes it perfect for retrieving and
launching the kayaks over the rails, and
the swim grid makes it easy to enter and
exit our kayaks.
She has an inflatable dinghy on davits,
which is a big plus in terms of ease of
docking, creating less drag when we’re
running, and safety—the dinghy is ready
to be launched quickly if need be, with
engine and fuel already on board.
Down below, she has an enclosed
head, a raised dinette, a settee that dou-
bles as a bunk, V-berth up forward, and a convenient galley to
port, out of the passageway.
Loafer II has gas engines. Twin gas! A far cry from the
single diesel I had first envisioned buying, but we didn’t find
a diesel engine boat that met our other criteria in our price
range. However, this is the first twin engine boat I have owned,
and I find that I really like the maneuverability and the confidence an extra engine gives when we’re upcoast and isolated.
Also, the two engines don’t have to work as hard as one to run
at our desired speed. We tend to cruise at half the speed she is
capable of to burn less fuel, but knowing the power is available
should we need it is also reassuring. She has bilge blowers and
sniffers, which help reduce the risks associated with gas.
Best of all, due to the love of the previous owner, she was
beautifully maintained and equipped—all we had to do was
move our personal gear aboard and cast off. The great condition of the boat was a definite factor in our final choice, especially because our scheduled holiday time was very soon, and
we didn’t have time to renovate or refurbish.
So, if the idea of purchasing a big boat to act as a mothership to your kayaks has occurred to you, decide first what
features and qualities are most important, then start looking.
There are so many boats of such diverse character on this
coast, you are sure to find one that will be your home away
from home and that will let you paddle in new places not previously so accessible. 
“We know our stuff”
getting you out there since 1981
A Proud “on water” Delta Kayaks dealer
1824 STORE STREET VICTORIA, BC. PH 250.381.4233 • TOLL FREE 1 800 909 4233
WWW.OCEANRIVER.COM
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
17
by Mike Richards
W
ith the ink barely dry on new vessel sewage regulations which were introduced in 2007 under the
Canada Shipping Act, there is now some talk of the
federal government looking into grey water regulation. With
BC boaters—including some of us with motherships—still
coming to terms with black-water (sewage) discharge restrictions, the rumours about new grey water regulation are already
raising some eyebrows. Notwithstanding the bureaucratic ability to complicate what should be common sense, there is some
confusion as to what exactly is grey water and what impacts it
can have on our kayaking and cruising waters.
Nothing’s black and white.
Although it may seem harmless, grey water, which is introduced into the marine environment via our galley sinks, showers and basins in the head, can pose a threat to the marine and
aquatic environments. That is because it can contain toxins like
phosphates, chlorine, inorganic salts and metals, and includes
soaps and detergents from boat showers, dishwashing and laun-
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
dry facilities. It’s also made up of the water and products we use
to clean our boats.
These products, even those labeled “biodegradable,” can
contain substances that are harmful to marine life in a variety
of ways. For example, many of them introduce excess nutrients,
and some coat the gills of fish and other marine organisms, essentially causing suffocation. In larger vessels, grey water can
also include ground-up vegetable matter from garbarators,
which introduces even more nutrients into the ecosystem. Because boats are not connected to a sanitary sewer system, grey
water flows untreated into our local waterways and oceans—
potentially knocking the marine ecosystem out of balance.
During my travels this past summer, I noticed a number of
areas where there seemed to be unusual algae blooms, possibly
related to increased nutrient levels. As more and more boats
use our favorite kayaking areas, it’s possible we might see more
blooms, unless we manage to reduce the impacts of grey water
and other pollutants.
photo by Ron Mumford
Mothership Kayaking Is Not Always Black and White
Fill up the tank please.
What are some of the options available to us to ensure our
grey water is doing the least amount of harm to our kayaking
waters? Well, the most definitive solution is to install a grey water holding tank to collect all the water from showers and sinks
in our galleys and heads. This water could then be discharged
at an appropriate reception facility (pump-out) that would send
it to a municipal treatment system before being discharged
back into the ocean.
Sadly, reception facilities that would take grey water are few
and far between in BC, so another alternative is to dump the
collected water as far away from land as possible. This still introduces a sudden surge of pollutants into the marine environment, but at least it’s away from enclosed waters. Regardless
of how the collected waters are dealt with, there are still the
challenges of installing a holding tank, including where to put
one with enough capacity and the associated cost.
Down the drain.
Another option is source control, which is ensuring that
harmful pollutants and/or excess nutrients don’t go down our
sinks and showers in the first place. On a small boat this is
sometimes easier said than done. Nonetheless, paying just a bit
more attention can result in huge reductions in the amount of
our personal pollutant discharges.
For instance, what detergent product are you using to wash
your dishes? Is it one that has surfactants made from petrochemicals or is it made from natural vegetable oils? What shampoo
do you use in the shower? Conditioner? Soap? What cleaning
products do you use inside and outside of your boat? We need
to avoid phosphates, chlorinated compounds (like bleach), petroleum distillates, phenols and formaldehyde, amongst a growing list of harmful chemicals.
All these products have pretty safe alternatives, including
ones you can mix yourself from readily available natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice
and olive oil. The recipes for the different jobs
can be found in Georgia Strait Alliance’s Guide to
Green Boating, which can be downloaded free of
charge at www.GeorgiaStrait.org.
For those who don’t want to mix their own
concoctions, there are a number of commercially available products to do the job with reduced
environmental harm. The best way to identify
which ones to use is to look for the term “Non
Toxic” and even better, that it has been acknowledged as safe under Environment Canada’s Environmental Choice Ecologo program, distinctive with its three doves in a maple leaf design.
Following the advice in the Guide to Green Boating is very helpful, because labelling on products
can be confusing. For example, many products use the term “biodegradable” which can
sometimes be deceiving, just like the term ”recyclable.” Being biodegradable just means that
the product will break down into its individual
components over time and return to nature. The
trick question is how long will it take and how
environmentally harmful are the process and
the end products? Sometimes what the product
breaks down into is worse than the initial product! This information is not normally readily available, so it’s buyer (and marine ecosystems) beware!
What does “clean” really mean?
Another way to reduce the potential harm of grey water
discharges is to look even further than what we put down our
drains to how much we put down them. Often the recommended amounts of product to use are excessive and a much smaller
amount will do the job just fine. For example, for many people,
only one wash with shampoo is necessary and the term “repeat”
can be ignored, especially if you are using “soft” water. It is also
worth noting that all surfactants (the ingredients that make the
bubbles) can harm fish and other marine life no matter what
their source, so using only what is necessary is critical.
Another question to ask ourselves: how often does the job
need to be done? Cleaning product advertisers have managed
to perpetuate a myth that bright, white and totally sanitized is
always best, therefore we must clean things regularly whether
they need it or not. Perhaps it’s worth taking the time to appreciate what is around us out on the water and take less time
cleaning something that just may not need it.
When it comes to cleaning our motherships, it’s worth asking the question “What does clean really mean?” Do I want
just a clean mothership or a clean and healthy ocean to kayak
in too? Sometimes the answer to this is not black and white but
quite grey as well.
Mike Richards is a lifelong, avid boater and paddler and is a Program Coordinator
with the Georgia Strait Alliance. [email protected]
Marine Pump Out Station Locations
British Columbia: www.sanidumps.com/marinepumpout_cdn_bc.php
California: www.pumpoutstations.com
Oregon: www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/library/docs/CVA-Pumpouts.pdf
Washington: http://dcm2.enr.state.nc.us/Marinas/pumplist.htm 
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
19
Kayaking in Paradise
GULF ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK RESERVE
by Hans Tammemagi
I
was Robinson Crusoe with an entire island to myself. I explored trails through the towering Douglas fir forest and
sat on rocky points. I listened to birds chirping and waves
splashing, took photographs and lazed on a sun-warmed rock
by the beacon watching huge ocean freighters plow through
Haro Strait. I was on Rum Island in the middle of a three-day
solo kayak trip, luxuriating in solitude and immersed in the soft
beauty of the southern Gulf Islands.
Earlier that morning I had launched at Otter Bay, Pender
Island, as part of my on-going quest to explore the recently
created (2003) Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. My first
stop, Roesland on North Pender, a former resort site for over
70 years, took only a few minutes to reach. I lingered in the
museum, gazed at an eagle’s nest balanced high on a Douglas fir and strolled a path amongst the twisted, colorful arbutus
trees on Roe Islet, a strong candidate for the prettiest walk in
the islands.
Then I started the long crossing of Swanson Channel with
one stroke following another in a gentle hypnotic rhythm. A
snort sounded and a seal’s smooth head popped out of the water to monitor my progress. I was happy to be one with the
watery domain, enjoying this unique and fragile ecosystem
formed by Canada’s only Mediterranean climate.
On the privately owned Moresby Island, “No Trespassing”
signs glared down from the shore and I was thankful for the National Park Reserve, which allows kayakers and boaters to enjoy
a paradise of 15 islands and over 65 islets in one of the most
beautiful and accessible archipelagos in the world. I entered
Prevost Passage. Slowly Rum Island (also known as Isle de Lis)
grew larger, and soon I was hauling my kayak up on the beach,
the solitary human on the island. I pitched my tent on a designated spot in the small camping area, for this terrain is fragile
and is one of the most ecologically at risk areas in Canada.
As the day closed, I sat on a knoll and watched the fading
light shimmer on the water. Four seals frolicked in the darkening bay. A distant lighthouse started to wink.
I awoke to a light mist hanging over the water and islands
adorned with clouds. Wetness gleamed on the smooth orange
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
bark of an arbutus tree, raindrops hung like pearls from pine
branches, pools of water caught in rock depressions reflected
tall trees and a cloudy sky. I felt an exhilarating connection with
nature.
When the tidal currents turned to flood, I set off, careful
to pack out everything I had packed in. Paddling toward the
northwest, a gentle zephyr caressed my back and the water was
silvery and calm. I paddled lazily past several islands, a blue
heron flapped its ungainly wings and a lighthouse was mirrored
upside down in the water.
Emerging from behind an island, the kayak suddenly veered,
and the once smooth water was full of eddies and swirls. It was
a lesson. Even on these seemingly quiet, protected waters, tidal
currents, especially where channels narrow, have significant
power. I tried to picture the immense rivers of water flowing
below the surface, connected globally and governed by that celestial body, the moon. I was humbled to think how small we
humans are in the face of these large and mysterious cosmic
forces.
I paddled on, floating sensually with the waves and the spirit
of the ocean. I passed Reay and Imrie Islets where seals were
hauled out and mingled with cormorants, gulls, murrelets and
other seabirds. My map indicated that these islets are Special
Preservation Areas within the park and that boaters and kayakers should remain 100 metres/yards off shore.
I arrived at Portland Island and coasted onto a dazzling white
beach formed by broken clam shells, the remains of thousands
of years of habitation by Coast Salish First Nations.
Once again I was Crusoe, alone to explore. I followed a path
around the island, passing coves with jumbles of bleached driftwood pushed high up on rocky beaches. Little meadows were
resplendent with fresh dewy grass, tiny purple and yellow wildflowers and rocks capped by dark green mosses. I passed an
old apple orchard, its gnarled, moss-covered trees a reminder
that Portland was settled in the 1880s by Kanaka (Hawaiian)
immigrants.
In the evening I watched the purple and blue hues above the
horizon. To the northwest I could discern Russell Island, also
part of the Park Reserve, which contains the remnants of a Hawaiian homestead occupied from 1902 to 1936, and I silently
made plans to visit it.
Next morning I loaded up and pushed off the perfect white
beach. Three otters, their long tails snaking through the water,
swam beside me for a short stretch, bidding me farewell. All too
soon I was back at Pender Island.
It was not long before a friend and I pushed off again, this
time heading northeast to explore Saturna Island, over 40%
of which is National Park Reserve. We were lured by Taylor
Point, accessible only from the water, where beauty and history mingle. Near the point the sandstone cliffs have been lovingly sculpted by wind and sea into delicate lacework whorls of
beige and yellow. Capping this artwork is a magnificent stand
of Garry oaks, which are found only in southwestern BC and
are the most threatened ecosystem in Canada. We turned into
the bay where George and Anne Taylor established a farm and
a sandstone quarry in 1892. The ruins of their stone house
remain, the thick walls highlighted by yellow leaves and green
hills. Ghosts walked beside us as we explored overgrown rocks
in the silent forest and found drill holes in rock faces, rusting
iron works and other traces of a once busy quarry.
Another day, my friend and I paddled from Pender Island to
Prevost Island. Although we timed our crossing to avoid the big
BC ferries that ply the waters between Victoria and Vancouver,
a smaller Gulf Islands ferry steaming out of Navy Channel
surprised us. We stopped to let it pass and were lifted high in
its wake.
Circling the island clockwise, we wandered amongst Prevost’s long, narrow bays, then lunched at James Bay with its
camping area and surrounding orchards. At Hawkins Islet, an
eagle posed nobly, high on a tall fir, while below on the reefs
dozens of seals lolled in the late afternoon sun.
Paddling homeward we planned trips to other places in the
Park Reserve. I was intrigued by D’Arcy Island, where from
1891, Chinese lepers lived in isolation with supplies dropped
off four times a year. Another unique place, Sidney Spit, with
its long, narrow hook spit and inner lagoon, is a cornucopia of
shorebirds during spring and fall migrations. Beaumont Park
on our own Pender Island beckoned with its nearby hike up
Mount Norman. My friend was drawn by Narvaez Bay on Saturna Island and the adjacent Tumbo Island, which has seen fur
farming, timbering and coal mining, and is also an important
Native spiritual place.
With the horizon behind us turning into fiery oranges and
vermilions we drifted into the bay, weary but already looking
forward to our next outing.
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve Information
Kayak trips: Specific trips are not listed here because there are too many
options. Good departure points for single or multi-day trips are (be sure to
consult detailed maps):
1) Swartz Bay ferry terminal. From near the terminal you can paddle to
Portland and Russell Islands. Go south of Sidney to launch for Sidney
Spit, D’Arcy and Rum Islands.
2) Otter Bay ferry terminal on Pender Island. Roesland is nearby. Drive to
different beach accesses to launch for Beaumont or to cross to Prevost
or Saturna Islands.
3) Lyall Harbour terminal, Saturna Island. Go from the terminal (or drive to
closer beach accesses) to Taylor Point, Tumbo and Cabbage Islands or
Georgina Point on Mayne Island. Note: at present there is no camping
on Saturna.
Basic camping areas: Beaumont, Pender Island; D’Arcy Island; Portland
Island; James Bay, Prevost Island; Rum Island.
Moorage, mooring buoys and/or dinghy dock: Sidney Spit; Beaumont,
Pender Island; Cabbage Island; Arbutus Point and Princess Bay, Portland
Island.
Protect the Park: No campfires are permitted. Do not disturb or feed
wildlife. Camp only in designated spots. Keep 100 metres from islets. Leave
no trace of your visit.
Information: Get brochures, maps and information from Parks Canada
offices in Sidney, Pender Island, Saturna Island. Call 250-654-4000 or
866-944-1744. www.pc.gc.ca/gulf
Emergencies: Within the park reserve call 877-852-3100. 
Gulf Islands
national park reserve of canada
réserve de parc national du canada des
Îles-Gulf
Easy to get there...impossible to forget
Facile d'accès...mémorable à souhait
www.pc.gc.ca
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
21
Kayaking Rituals
for the New Year
by Neil Schulman
I
n the Grand Canyon, rafters kiss a rock called Vulcan’s
Anvil to ensure a safe run through Lava Falls. Since we’re
close to the turn of the year, it’s time to offer some new
paddling “traditions.” Here are new ways to appreciate the sea,
keep your group together, build your paddling skills and have
fun.
Play Weatherman
You’re out on a multi-day trip. Instead of hovering over the
VHF forecast, spend the day watching the weather—cloud and
fog patterns, wind direction, sea state—and guess what will
happen the next day. Then listen to the forecast for the next
day, and watch the conditions. See if you’re right or wrong.
This will help you understand the clues, so you can interpret
the weather and know what’s coming while you’re on the water. Whoever’s guess is closest doesn’t have to wash dishes that
night.
Blessed Are the Swimmers
Some old Scottish whitewater buddies had a rule that if you
swam a rapid, you had to buy the first round of beer afterwards.
Unfortunately, this heaped shame on the swimmers—those
who had pushed their limits. So, I propose the reverse tradition.
If you swim, you get free beer (or whatever your post-paddle reward may be). This way there’s another incentive to explore the
edges of your comfort zone, see what happens, and not worry
so much about staying upright or blowing the occasional roll.
And it gives the rest of your group a chance to practice rescue
skills—something we all need to do more often.
Swim In The Surf
At the beginning of a surf class, a friend of mine got the
whole group to swim around in the surf. It helped everyone get
a feel for the behavior of waves, but more importantly, it got us
all over the shock of the first wave blasting cold saltwater in our
faces. Inaugurate your ’08 surf sessions with a dunking—sans
boat.
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The Post-Lunch Huddle
Afternoon is usually when problems happen on the water.
Conditions often worsen, people are tired, and there’s often a
“horse smelling the barn” phenomenon. I’ve seen many groups
that are very cohesive in the morning, only to break down after
lunch. The usual reasons are getting spread out, failure to communicate a plan, and splitting into small subgroups. From here
things can deteriorate quickly: a rescue is needed, but the group
is separated, so help isn’t available. Or a part of the group goes
astray and has to be chased down.
Don’t let it happen to you. Most groups have a pre-paddle
huddle to discuss plans and contingencies, but few do so again
after lunch. Make it a habit and avoid the afternoon snafus
before they happen.
The Tow Game
An old paddling group used to play a game in which we’d
try to attach our towlines to the bow or stern of someone else’s
kayak—entitling you to a tow—while also trying to avoid someone else attaching to you. This exercise keeps you on your toes,
and provides some fun mayhem and boat control practice. It
also provides practice of a key skill: attaching a tow system
quickly. This is essential when moving a rescue that is running
out of sea room, and where seconds spent fumbling with your
tow system can be costly. With this game you’ll hone the skill
and have fun doing it.
Trade Boats and Paddles
We spend hours outfitting our cockpits until they fit us well,
and we calibrate our paddles to our preferred length, grip and
feather angle. This is a great process, since fit helps us control
our kayaks and prevent injuries. But if we take it too far, we
short-circuit learning. Paddling the same boat with the same
paddle all the time can generate great performance in carefully
controlled circumstances. But it also creates ineffectiveness as
soon as something new is introduced. This is closed-loop learning. By contrast, open-loop learning is the ability to adjust to
different circumstances, different gear, and still paddle well. So
swap boats and paddles. Can you move your boat around with
half a paddle? Try and find out.
Dawn Patrol
There’s no better feeling than being afloat for the sunrise. It’s
a ritual best done alone, if conditions permit. You can start the
day with your own thoughts, and with the rhythm of smooth
paddle strokes. Summer’s warmer, but late winter sunrises give
you more shut-eye. You may grumble
when the alarm goes off, but you’ll be delighted once the morning is underway.
Bioluminescence
Some of my most mind-blowing paddling experiences involve paddling at night
through a sea exploding with green sparkling bioluminescence. Bioluminescence
or seasparkle, is caused by the tiny dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans. When moving water disturbs them they emit flashes
of light. When millions of the little critters are present, the result is glowing green
whirlpools following each paddle stroke,
the paths of schools of fish or a breaking
wave. Wait for a moonless night, and head
out, hoping for some glowing plankton.
Rolling with a dive mask will be astounding. Jimi Hendrix optional.
Thank the Sea
Every time my paddle hits water, I am
thankful that I live in a world still inhabited by eagles, salmon, whales and countless other living things. Being thankful is
one thing, and acting on that thanks is the
next step. For each time you paddle, dedicate some time—an hour a paddle—to
doing something that protects the areas
you play in. Connect with conservation
groups, contribute money and write letters to folks who make the key decisions.
In fact, that’s how we got protected places
to begin with.
Loreto-Sea of Cortez Kayak Tours
low cost, 6,7 & 10 day trips.
See our website for dates and itineraries
ADVENTURE OUTFITTERS
[email protected]
Come paddle
with us in
beautiful Baja
Think Like A River Otter
Anyone who’s watched river otters in
the wild knows that they seem to spend
most of their time playing. They splash
around madly in the water, slide down
muddy banks, and frolic through their
daily routine of catching fish. While surviving in the wild is no picnic, otters somehow remember to have fun. We kayakers,
absorbed in our gear, technique and trip
planning, can sometimes forget that. So
remember to goof off, wear absurd hats,
horse around, and don’t take kayaking too
seriously.
See you on the water in 2008.
Neil Schulman lives in Oregon, where he strives to
combine the playfulness of a river otter with the writing, photography and paddling skills of a human.

WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
23
fishing angles
by Dan Armitage
Exercising
the
Angling Option
T
his is a new column for WaveLength, and I hope to do
justice to the space that Diana and Ron have dedicated
to the subject of fishing from kayaks. The numbers certainly justify it: the popularity of fishing from paddle-powered
watercraft, and kayaks in particular, is a phenomenon that even
industry experts did not anticipate, and the activity now represents one of the fastest growing segments of sport fishing across
North America.
If you’re aboard, and already combine fishing and kayaking,
you likely “get” it and understand the fever that’s spreading
from coast to coast. Chances are, the information I will be sharing in this column might be a bit basic to those of you already
wetting a line from your cockpit on a regular basis. Bear with
me; I’ll try to share tips each issue that may even benefit the veteran angler. But if you find that I am speaking to a level you’ve
left in your wake, please peruse the web sites I share below;
you’ll find plenty of advanced kayak angling information for
the fishing fanatic in you!
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Likewise, I’ll not be dedicating many words to tactics for taking specific gamefish species in specific places. There are plenty
of resources available—both in print and online—that share
regional techniques and specialized tackle for catching a particular species of fish. Most will work just as well from the cockpit
of a kayak as from the deck of a traditional fishing boat.
And that leads me to one of the keys to kayak fishing’s popularity: any fish that you can catch from boat or shore can be
caught from a kayak. That goes for everything from inland
perch to pelagic billfish.
To use the words of offshore kayak fishing aficionado Ric
Hawthorne, So Cal angler and marketing rep for Okuma Fishing Tackle, “The beauty of fishing from a kayak is its inherent
simplicity. It can be as basic as simply taking a rod and reel
along with your paddle.”
On the other hand, if gadgets and gear are what “float your
boat,” you certainly won’t be disappointed by all the angling
accessories now available for custom rigging kayaks for fishing. From floating fishing rods to PFDs that double as tackle
vests, there are even lines of angling attire—both technical and
trendy—designed for ’yakers who seek to fool fish.
Getting back to the basics: any kayak you currently own can
be used for fishing. That includes sit-in as well as sit-on-top
(SOT) models. The latter is the style-of-choice for most kayak
anglers, but sit-in designs have their following as well, especially
in areas where the angling may take place in cold, inclement
weather.
Some of the common arguments in favor of sit-on-tops include: easier boarding and off-loading from beach, shore, dock,
water or mothership; no swamping—and the resulting pumpout—when tipped over; more surface area for mounting accessories; more available storage space; and more maneuverability aboard, allowing the angler to move forward or backward,
reach accessories, and sit side-saddle while fishing.
But again, any kayak can be used for fishing.
Ditto the tackle you may already have on hand. Granted, fly
fishermen may face a learning curve until they learn to get a
little more air under their back-casts from the low-to-the-water
platform, but the under-the-radar approach offered by the lowprofile craft compensates for the shorter casts that may, or may
not, result.
If you already own traditional spinning, spin-casting or baitcasting tackle—and the basic skills to use it—you’re good to
go. The tactics you may already employ to catch fish from traditional boat, dock, beach or bank will work from a paddledriven plastic (or canvas, or wood) platform. In fact, that’s just
what the experts suggest that neophyte ’yak anglers do: go to
the same places you catch fish from shore or conventional watercraft, use the same tackle, baits and tactics, but do it from the
deck or cockpit of your kayak.
Yes, it will take some adapting, and no, you might not be as
successful as when you fish using your conventional approach,
at least at first. But just as you learned to be comfortable atop
the water in your kayak, you will eventually find the same comfort zone when fishing from our favorite style of watercraft.
And that’s when the fun begins.
Four Excellent Kayak Fishing Web Sites*
Plasticnavy.com
Texaskayakfisherman.com
Kayaksportfishing.com
Kayakfishingstuff.com
*There are dozens of other good web sites on the subject, many regional
in nature, but these are a start. Following links available at each of the
above will lead you anywhere you care to paddle angling-wise.
Next Issue: Basic Fishing Tackle and Tactics 
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
25
Bahamian Fishing
SOUTH ANDROS ISLAND
by Ben Mumford
S
outh Andros is a wonderfully pristine island with white
sand beaches and clear, turquoise water. Located the furthest south and east in the Bahamian group, it is scarcely
populated with only 1800 people, most living on the northeast
side of the island. The southern part of South Andros is made
up of cays and shallow estuaries. There are miles of canals and
creeks that could provide weeks of swimming, snorkeling, sun
worshipping and exploring by kayak. However, we took a look
at South Andros from the kayak angler’s perspective.
There are two completely different kinds of fishing experiences possible on the island—deep-sea fishing near a vertical
reef unlike any in the world, and inshore fishing in the creeks
where lies the illusive bonefish (Albula vulpes).
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Although bonefish are not considered good to eat, and
catch-and-release is the usual practice, hooking one of these
translucent fish, known as the “white ghost,” will likely be the
ultimate thrill for most avid kayak anglers—and South Andros
is one of the best places on the planet to find them. Bonefish
grow up to 22 pounds in weight and 3.4 feet in length. They
spook very easily, but put up a fight to rival any sport fish. Anglers catch bonefish with a fly, however, you generally have to
spot the fish first and then place your fly directly over the fish to
be successful. This operation of placing your fly must be done
with utmost care, as the fish will detect any movement on your
part and quickly vacate. This game of cat and mouse can take
hours. If you have tried unsuccessfully to hook into a bonefish
from your kayak, guides will take you out in a very shallow skiff
and spot the fish for you. You sit and wait for the guide to quietly tell you where to place your fly—“30 yards and 10 o’clock
off the starboard bow”—then you try to place your fly exactly
there. This is a very intense fishing experience, and guaranteed
to make you focus your attention and forget anything else that’s
going on in your life.
The other type of amazing fishing available to the kayaker on
South Andros is deep-sea kayak fishing, made possible thanks
to the US military. The tongue of the sea, as it is called, is a
trench that splits the Bahamas. Between the Exuma group and
South Andros lies 60 miles of water. However, just a mile and
half off the beach, the depth is over 6000 feet. After World War
II, six military bases were set up along this trench to test subma-
rine warfare, and a buoy was installed two miles off Mangrove
Cay in 6000 feet of water. Over time, this installation created a
vertical, artificial reef. Coral adhered to the cable, encouraging
bait fish and deeper water fish up the water column to feed.
Predatory fish such as barracuda and tuna followed, making
this one of the very few places on Earth where you can jig for
tuna. So if the idea of hooking into a 30 pound fish from your
kayak excites you, this is the place.
We took a guide boat out to the buoy, as the two-mile paddle
wasn’t in our schedule, and because being towed around by a
40 pound fish for an hour also wasn’t on the agenda. Having
the guide boat to assist if such a thing were to happen adds a
certain amount of comfort to the operation. I spent 45 minutes
jigging for a fish with no luck. Fortunately, on the way out to the
buoy we had put out trolling gear behind the guide boat and
in the 20 minute trip we hooked a 50 pound Wahoo tuna and
a 15 pound barracuda—apparently my trolling skills are better
than my jigging skills.
Roggie, the guide boat operator who took us to all the cool
spots, is a great guide and provided an awesome experience.
He operates a 25 foot prowler cat with twin outboards, and he
was expecting a new 30 foot boat to arrive any day when we
were there—both great expedition boats to get you well into
the creeks to go after the fabulous bone fish. Roggie offers deepsea fishing packages as well as day trip expeditions for kayakers. Daily expeditions are very reasonably priced, and for the
amount of information you get out of the operator, it is worth
every penny. Roggie will load your kayaks aboard the boat, take
you to the best fishing spots on the island, unload your boats
and keep a watchful eye out for you. He anchors and waits as
you paddle through the shallows to the best fishing hole, and
when you’re ready for home or want to change locales, he is
there waiting.
Travel Information
Ripple Effect Charters (www.rippleeffectcharters.com) – did a great job of getting us to South Andros and setting up our tours
Andros Beach Club (www.androsbeachclub.com) – self sufficient accommodation in an historic fishing lodge
Emerald Palms Resort (www.emerald-palms.com) – wonderful pool, elegant
rooms, spa and restaurant
Reel Tight Charters (www.mwpr.com/reeltight.html) – great fishing guide 
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
27
kayak review
by Alex Matthews
photo by Rochelle Relyea
Trak T-1600 Sea Kayak
28
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
ing the frame inside its skin easy and also
opens up the stern quickly for loading
gear into the boat. Assembly time on the
first attempt was a leisurely 20 – 25 minutes and felt very intuitive. With practice,
the company’s claimed one-minute assembly seems quite attainable.
A
few weeks ago a large golf bag
was delivered to my front door.
“Strange,” I thought—I don’t
golf. On closer examination, the bag
contained no golf clubs at all. Instead,
a folding, skin-on-frame kayak lurked
within.
The boat in question is the T-1600–
the first offering from the new Calgarybased company: Trak Kayaks.
The aforementioned travel pack for
the kayak is very stylish, with sturdy
wheels on the bottom of the bag and a
well-positioned handle that makes wheeling the pack around easy.
Trak has also striven to deliver a complete package. As well as the kayak and
its nice travel pack, float bags and a wellmade spray skirt are also included, along
with comprehensive instructions and a
DVD on putting the boat together and
taking it apart again.
The T-1600 proved to be the fastest
and easiest folding boat to assemble that
I have yet encountered. Like a number
of other folders, the Trak is constructed
from a tubular aluminum frame that
slides into a fabric skin. A large zipperlike closure on the stern deck makes slid-
One big difference between the T1600 and other kayaks is that the design
incorporates three hydraulic jacks into
the frame. The jacks, located in front of
the seat, help to tension the skin during
assembly but also allow the basic shape
of the boat to be changed, generating
different handling characteristics. One
jack adjusts the length of the tubing of
the keel (centerline of the bottom of the
hull) and the other two adjust the length
of the tubing on the left and right sides
of the boat. The result is that the paddler can choose to introduce more rocker
(make the boat more banana shaped in
profile) for far greater maneuverability,
or keep it flatter for easier paddling in a
straight line. Or the boat can be hooked
to the left or right, in order to compensate for changing conditions like wind or
current. In theory, all this can be done
from the cockpit while underway.
So how did it paddle? Well, that depended entirely on how the hydraulics
were set. And that’s pretty cool. While it’s
great fun playing with the rocker—going
from a “tracky” kayak to one which will
turn very easily—trying to get the boat
feeling truly straight down the centerline
was a little more frustrating. I would have
loved to somehow have a couple of default settings that I could always return
to, like presets on a car radio. It’s also
pretty hard to access the side jacks while
underway because the paddler’s legs
rest against the jacks when gripping the
kayak. Generally, I found that I would
set the boat straight down the centerline,
and then simply edge and compensate
with paddle strokes for prevailing conditions just the way I would with any other
kayak. In fact, my prediction is that sooner or later Trak will offer a rudder as an
option.
The variable rocker aspect worked
much better for me. It is definitely fun to
play with, although I did tend to arrive
at a personal preferred setting and leave
things there until I hit surf or particularly
tights quarters that had me cranking the
rocker way up.
Stability of the Trak is moderate, and
experienced paddlers felt very comfort-
able while heavier novices felt a little
cautious. The fit is pretty good and I had
folks from 140 pounds to 230 pounds
paddling the boat. A pair of adjustable
thigh braces can be installed onto the
coaming, and once adjusted to my tastes,
these really transformed the kayak for
me. Initially I couldn’t get a good grip
on the boat with my legs, but with the
braces in place I could confidently edge,
brace and roll easily.
With limited rocker dialed in, the
Trak has decent speed and feels efficient
on the water.
While the Trak isn’t huge and can’t
swallow vast quantities of gear, it’s eminently suitable for day trips and shorter
multi-day outings. A sea-sock is an essential addition for anyone who plans to
venture into rough water.
With limited time to assess a product,
durability is always a tough issue to address. The added complexity of the hydraulic jacks does call into question the
system’s ability to stand up to longterm
exposure to the corrosive effects of salt
water. Only time will tell. The shell material itself is certainly tough: doubled
up along the keel line, it proved burly
enough to put up with all the scrapes
and scratches that I inflicted on it.
Trak has entered the market with an
innovative boat that assembles remarkably easily, and in record time. Paddling
performance is good and can be tweaked
on the fly, both for personal preference
or to better meet conditions. While
the price is high, the ease of assembly
and unique adjustable rocker make the
Trak a serious contender for anyone in
the market for a full-feature folding sea
kayak.
GEAR UP FOR THE WORLD’S LARGEST PLAYGROUND.
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VANCOUVER ISLAND’S WIDEST
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& KAYAK REPAIR
PACIFICAPADDLE.COM
250.361.9365
PACIFICA ADVENTURE TOURS
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250.361.9881
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
575 PEMBROKE STREET
(AT GOVERNMENT)
VICTORIA, BC V8T 1H3
Trak Kayaks T-1600
Length: 16 ft / 4.88 m
Width: 22.50 in / 57.15 cm
Weight: 47 lbs / 21.32 kg
Cockpit size: 16.5 x31.75 in/41.91x80.65 cm
Weight in pack: 58 lbs/26.31 kg
Pack Size: 52x17x15 in/132.08x43.18x38.10 cm
Colors: Green Deck with White Hull or Gold
Deck with White Hull
Suggested Retail: $5,495 USD
Trak Kayaks
Phone: 1.888.35.KAYAK (355-2925)
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.rethinkkayak.com 
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
29
product review
by Adam Bolonsky
WindPaddle Kayak Sail
photos by Nick Wiltz
T
here are plenty of good reasons to rig a kayak with a
sail. The most obvious is speed. In winds of ten knots
or more, most kayakers would be hard pressed to keep
up with a kayak sailing downwind, even if the chasing paddler
is an accomplished chop hopper willing to soak up the sweat
that fast, downwind paddling requires. As he or she grunts and
accelerates off each wave, the kayak under sail scuds along, always one boat length ahead.
On longer trips and expeditions, a sail can be a valuable
addition for more reasons than speed. If bad weather delays
you and the next leg of the trip is downwind, you can rig the
sail and off you go, easily making up with speed the time you
lost. In this scenario, the advantages of a sail multiply because
you’ve got free hands—to make a VHF radio or satellite phone
call, run the GPS, read relative angles or angles-off-the-bow
to keep track of where you are and where you’re going, eat a
sandwich, run the desalinator, or set up the solar charger, etc.
There are lots of kayak sail rig options out there, ranging
from the complex to the simple. Some—most often affixed to
doubles owned by outfitters—have semi-permanent aluminum
masts stationed amidships with a sloop’s recognizable right triangle sail. Other sails are simple, free-floating affairs akin to
tarps, several metres square, often sent aloft by a lashed pod
of kayaks and with lines at each corner attached to paddles.
The sail hovers above the kayaks like a cloud, pulling the pod
along. (Here’s a link to a video of one of these sails in action:
http://paddlingtravelers.blogspot.com/2007/10/sailing-fourkayak-pod.html)
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Finally, there are single-kayak foredeck-rigged sails. These
are typically V-shaped, with wishbone masts holding a rigid sail
aloft—a sort of upside-down wedge, jutting up from the foredeck and resembling two fingers making a peace sign inside a
sandwich bag. Sometimes those masts, small as they might be
(about the length and stiffness of a two-piece paddle) are somewhat unwieldy. They have to be stored when not in use, tend to
clutter the deck, and need to be lashed down. (Here’s a link to
one of those sails in action: http://paddlingtravelers.blogspot.
com/2007/12/sailing-kayak-solo.html)
Rudder control on such sailed kayaks is optional; the majority require little more than a paddle deployed bow-rudder or
low-brace turn style for steering. Still another type uses fixed
rudders and larboards, and can be sailed both across and upwind, effectively turning the kayak into a sailboat, a style seen
mostly on folding kayaks like Folbots and Kleppers.
Nick Wiltz, who lives in the kiteboarding/sailboarding mecca of Hood River, Oregon, has come up with a new design,
the WindPaddle, that solves many of the problems associated
with kayak sails—the bulk, the hassles of foredeck storage, the
overbig presence—in a unique way. His sail, like any kayak sail
useful in wind ranging from moderate to fresh, requires mast
support. His take on the mast, though, is a circular loop, configured from stiff but flexible, virtually unbreakable plastic.
Having attached the packed WindPaddle to your foredeck
lines, when it’s time to sail, you slip the figure-eight-shaped rig
from its mesh bag, untie the questionably designed compression
strap (more on that later), and let go. The sail pops open like a
sapling released from a stake in the ground. That’s it. Grasp the
sail’s sheets, which double as stays, and you’re sailing.
Sailors have a couple of tactics for dealing with gusts: shift
weight to windward (not very easy in a kayak) or ease the sheets.
Because the WindPaddle’s mast is made of flexible plastic, it
has great tolerance for gusts. If the wind is strong, the mast
bends, spilling air so you never lose control of the sail. When
the gust subsides, the mast straightens. Nice.
In tests on a local lake well known here in Massachusetts for
its gustiness, the WindPaddle worked just fine. Running downwind, overall speed was impressive: about 5.5 knots, 6.0 in sustained gusts. When the wind topped out at about 18 knots and
thicker whitecaps leapt up around the kayak, the mast bent,
spilling the gust.
The WindPaddle is also unique in that it’s the only foredeck
sail I’ve seen that’s round rather than wedge or diamond shaped.
The result is a sail lower to the foredeck yet wider than most.
To deal with the inevitable visibility problems that arise from a
sail on the foredeck, the center of the WindPaddle is made of
the same clear plastic that speckles the luffs and feet of sailboat
racing sails. Overall construction is quite good: strong, durable
nylon stitches that encase the circular mast with fat seams, and
extra stitching at stress points. Nick comes from an area where
high performance Dacron and Mylar sails have been designed
for decades, and his attention to sail making shows: no loose
threads, extra fabric at stress points, rip-stop nylon, flat seams,
sedged edges. This is a sail that will last as long as its owner,
with the caveat that, like all sail fabrics, it will weaken if left
exposed to sunlight for too long.
The sail does have some quirks that will vex a new owner.
Although the sail is easy to deploy, thanks to its coiled mast, recoiling it is wholly counterintuitive. You want to bend the mast
but can’t. Instead, you twist it. Unfortunately Nick’s in-package
support materials are lacking: a few hard-to-follow photos and
some perfunctory text that does a poor job of explaining that
the trick to putting the sail back into the bag is to twist it. I had
to call Nick for instructions, watch the online video (www.windpaddle.com/stowing_sail.htm), then ask my girlfriend Yvonne,
who has a lot of experience dealing with biases in fabric, to
get the trick down. Turns out all it takes is a simple twist of
the wrists, like coiling a rope, but that twist isn’t easy to figure
out. Do it right, though, and you end up with a sail and mast
that fit neatly into a mesh bag about the size of a newspaper.
That trick of coiling, not bending, took me over two hours to
discover.
A final quirk is that the sail’s compression strap, a short nylon
cord, goes flying off into the air, and overboard, like a spring
from a broken capstan, as soon as you release it. And without
that compression strap, keeping the sail compressed while you
coil its mast is like trying to hold together two giant magnets
pointed the wrong way at each other.
Anyone who wants to improve their kayaking should give
kayak sailing a try, and perhaps for reasons more valuable than
fast downwind running. Sailing is a miles-burner, but it is also
a fine way to observe and anticipate the changes in wind speed
and direction that affect the waters we paddle. Wind exerts the
largest influence on sea conditions; it generates most of the
swell, waves and rough water we learn to savor or avoid. Learn
to sail your kayak and you’ll become that much more adept at
reading the wind’s power and its particular seasonal trends and
quirks in your paddling area. With Nick’s reasonably-priced sail
(under $200 US) standing in as tutor, you’ll learn how to assess,
read, and anticipate what those winds are up to, and thus too
the sea state you’re sure to encounter.
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www.windpaddle.com
Colors: Blue/White/Blue, Red/White/Red
MSRP: $165 (Adventure Mark II) 
Nick’s Note
The new model of our product (called the WindPaddle Adventure Mark
II) will be released in late January 2008. Adam tested the WindPaddle Adventure Mark I. There are several significant improvements to the design,
including the elimination of the detached compression strap and the attached paddle pocket/bag.
The WindPaddle Adventure Mark II comes with an attached strap that
won’t fly off, and which simply loops around the coiled sail rather than
compressing it. This design improvement is much easier and more convenient to use than the compression strap of the Mark I.
The WindPaddle Adventure Mark II also comes with a much larger window
with a new horizontal orientation for an increased wide-angle field of vision. Expanded color choices and a lighter overall weight are also new
improvements. We’ll retain the Mark I model for those who also want to
fly the sail like the “Sport” model from the blade of a paddle, but for most
users, the WindPaddle Adventure Mark II is clearly the model to own!
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
31
skillset
by Alex Matthews
The 3 Golden Rules
T
he “3 Golden Rules” are a set of rules that should be applied to your paddling mechanics regardless of what type of kayaking you intend to do. Adhering to these three basic concepts will give you a great advantage, especially when paddling in
tougher conditions. With good mechanics, you will always be in a strong, supple position, which will allow you to paddle
smoothly with power, and protect your shoulders too.
#1
Co-operative Division of the Body
The co-operative division of the body refers to the concept of letting your
upper and lower bodies work co-operatively yet independently from each
other. For example, your upper body may be actively driving your kayak
forward, while your lower body holds your boat on edge. Similarly, your boat
may rock from edge to edge in choppy water while your upper body stays
upright. This co-operative division of work is essential to edging, bracing,
rolling and all other advanced paddling techniques.
#2
Maintaining a Power Position with Your Arms
Sea kayaking can expose a paddler to the powerful forces of moving water, and unfortunately injuries can occur. The most common
injuries are relatively minor ones like blisters or mild tendinitis, but
shoulder dislocation is a serious injury that is all too common in the
surf zone. One of the best ways to prevent shoulder injury is to maintain a “power position” with your arms.
The power position simply involves keeping your hands in front of
your body. Another way to think of this is that your arms, chest and
paddle form a box when you hold your paddle out in front of you,
and you should maintain this box when taking any type of stroke.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t reach to the back of your boat to
take a stroke. But it does mean that in order to do so, you’ll need to
rotate your whole upper body so that your hand stays in front of you.
This act of rotating the upper body is fittingly named torso rotation.
Not only does this keep your shoulders safe, it also lets you harness the
most power for your strokes, which is why it’s the third Golden Rule.
#3
Torso Rotation
Your paddle strokes should use much more than just your arm and shoulder
muscles. You need to use the power of your whole body. Torso Rotation is the
way to get your front and side stomach muscles involved with your strokes. With
good rotation, you should be working your latissimus dorsi muscles, or “lats,”
too. Using these larger muscles will let you paddle harder, faster and for longer.

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33
mothership options
Alaska on the Home Shore
For people who would like to
paddle from the comfort of a
guided mothership, we offer this
information about some of the
ships operating on the Pacific
coast. These companies draw on
experience and local knowledge
to create unique experiences for
their guests.
Vessel: Home Shore
Length: 62 feet
Sale or Power: Power
Area(s): BC’s Inside Passage, Alaska’s Misty
Fjords, Glacier Bay, and all of northern Southeast Alaska.
Port(s) of Departure: Sitka, Juneau, Petersburg
Number of Guests: 6
Length of Trip: 8 days, 7 nights
Cost per Person: $2900 – $3800
Home Shore, a classic wooden commercial
vessel, is your base for fully-guided kayaking in wilderness lagoons, barrier islands, sea
arches, and secret passages. We have decades
of working experience in these waters. Experience whales, bears, calving glaciers, hotsprings.
Your tour includes private staterooms, unmatched cuisine, and a family ambience.
www.homeshore.com
[email protected]
800-287-7063(01)
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Vessel: Anvil Cove
Anvil Cove Charters
Length: 53 feet
Sail or Power: Both
Area(s): Haida Gwaii/Queen Charlotte Islands
Port(s) of Departure: Queen Charlotte
Number of Guests: 6
Length of Trip: 6 to 10 days
Cost per Person: $2200 – $3000
Kayak mothership tours of Haida Gwaii/
Queen Charlotte Islands. Great kayaking while
exploring these Islands renowned for their
rich and diverse cultural and natural history.
Visit ancient Haida villages and old-growth
temperature rainforests, watch for eagles,
bears, seabirds, whales and other wildlife in
this spectacular pristine archipelago.
www.queencharlottekayaking.com
[email protected]
250-559-8207
Vessel: Island Bay
Archipelago Ventures
Length: 42 feet
Sail or Power: Power
Area(s): Gwaii Haanas National Park
Port(s) of Departure: Fly with South
Moresby Air
Number of Guests: 5
Length of Trip: 6 days
Cost per Person: $1950
Nourish the body, mind and spirit with a sixday wilderness adventure aboard the Island
Bay – a 42 foot motor vessel, fully licensed
and equipped for touring and mothership
kayaking. Our trips focus on both learning and
fun! Experience spectacular old-growth forests,
riparian ecosystems, Haida cultural heritage,
wildlife viewing, natural hot springs and fabulous kayaking.
www.TourHaidaGwaii.com
[email protected]
250-882-4914
>>
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
35
Kayak Transport Company
Vessel: Abyssinia
Length: 65 feet
Sale or Power: Power
Area(s): Southeast Alaska
Port(s) of Departure: Sitka, Juneau, Petersburg, Ketchikan
Number of Guests: 4 – 6
Length of Trip: 8 days, 7 nights
Cost per Person: $2500 US
The dream week for experienced kayakers. Explore the beautiful waters and shores of Southeast Alaska, and return to the mothership for
hot showers and catch-of-the day meals. Most
of our customers come back for more.
www.kayaktransport.com
[email protected]
206-719-0976
Misty Isles Adventures
Vessel: Misty Isles
Length: 43 feet
Sail or Power: Both
Area(s): Desolation Sound and the Discovery
Islands
Port(s) of Departure: Cortes Island and
Lund
Number of Guests: 12 (day trips), 6 (multiday)
Length of Trip: 1 – 6 days
Cost per Person: $1130 (4 day trip)
This trip has it all! Kayaking, sailing and hiking in one of the most spectacular wilderness
areas on the whole BC coast. With our kayaks
loaded onboard Misty Isles, we set off to explore Desolation Sound, widely renowned for
its rugged beauty and warm water temperatures. You could also customize your own trip
and pricing by bringing your own food, kayaks,
etc. We can voyage anywhere on the inside
of Vancouver Island—where do you want to
explore?
www.mistyislesadventures.com
[email protected]
250-935-6756
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
>>
Solstua West – Rendezvous Islands
KAYAK with
COMFORT
Experience Nature in Comfort
RENDEZVOUS ISLAND, BC CANADA
www.solstuawest.com
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37
Mothership Adventures
Vessel: Columbia III
Length: 68 feet
Area(s): Great Bear Rainforest, Broughton
Archipelago, Johnstone Strait, Desolation
Sound
Port(s) of Departure: Campbell River, Port
McNeill, Bella Bella
Number of Guests: 10
Length of Trip: 4 – 10 days
Cost per Person: $300 – $475 per night
Explore the remote wilderness of coastal British Columbia in luxury aboard the elegant
heritage vessel Columbia III. Choose from
kayaking tours, or specialty cruises including
photography, cultural history, natural history,
painting and videography. Enjoy cozy staterooms, gourmet food, hot showers certified
guides and a hospitable crew!
www.mothershipadventures.com
[email protected]
250-202-3229
1-888-833-8887
Ursa Major Charters
Vessel: Ursa Major
Length: 65 feet
Area(s): Winter – Mexico’s Sea of Cortez.
Summer – Southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage.
Port(s) of Departure: Sitka Alaska, Petersburg Alaska, La Paz Mexico and Loreto Mexico
Number of Guests: 6 – 8
Length of Trip: 7 days
Cost per Person: $3750
Ursa Major is a classic trawler yacht kayaking
mothership spiriting you to the wilderness waters of Southeast Alaska and the marine sanctuaries of the Sea of Cortez. Quality kayaks,
comfortable staterooms, showers, gourmet
meals transport you to the finest kayaking areas for whale and bear watching and protected
paddling waters.
www.myursamajor.com
[email protected]
206-310-2309

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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Ocean River’s Jon LaCroix.
A Proud “on water” Necky dealer
WWW.OCEANRIVER.COM
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
39
getting started
by Alex Matthews
Navigating the Materials Maze
T
tenance and are extremely difficult to puncture, crack or otherwise destroy. The low price of polyethylene kayaks makes them
a real bargain and the perfect first boat for many paddlers.
To recognize a poly boat, look for a duller, less glossy finish,
a heavier overall weight, and for the deck and hull colors to
be the same—the deck and hull are not two separate parts in
a poly boat. Instead the entire shell is one continuous molded
piece of plastic. This means that there is no seam in the material and no opportunity to have different colors between the
deck and hull. Looking inside a poly boat will usually reveal the
same basic color as the exterior, although some manufacturers
use a “3 ply” process to increase stiffness and often features an
interior color that is different from the outer one.
Polyethylene
For polyethylene, think “Tupperware”–it’s basically the
same plastic. Polyethylene or “poly” boats are very affordable,
and have amazing durability. Nothing else even comes close to
a poly boat when it comes to absorbing big impacts or standing
up to serious abuse. Poly kayaks are a little soft, and do deform
over time, especially when exposed to heat (like the hot sun).
They are also significantly heavier than most kayaks built from
other materials, but poly kayaks require the minimum of main40
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
photo by Alex Matthews
raditionally, kayaks were made from sealskin stretched
over a wooden frame, but now most commercially
available kayaks are built from a variety of plasticbased materials.
The different materials and their respective qualities can be
confusing to a prospective buyer, but the most common materials currently used are generally divided into three basic
groups:
•
Polyethylene
•
Composites (like fiberglass, Kevlar® and carbon)
•
Thermoformed acrylic-capped ABS
Composites
Composite boats are stiffer, lighter and shinier than polyethylene ones. They are also about twice the price! Kevlar® (a
gold colored cloth made from aramid fiber) or Carbon (a black
woven cloth made from carbon fiber) kayaks are lighter (typically by 5 – 10 lbs) than fiberglass ones, but are more expensive
still. Composite kayaks yield the best performance on the water
and are stiffer and lighter than poly. While composite kayaks are
definitely subject to more damage from heavy collisions than
polyethylene kayaks, composites will last for a great many years
if treated carefully, and are actually far more durable than most
people suspect. All composite constructions are a sandwich of
different fabrics that are wetted out and bonded together by
resin. Different “cores” (usually made from urethane) are sometimes included in the laminate to further increase the stiffness
of a part. The outermost layer of a composite kayak is usually an eggshell-thin layer of pigmented resin called gelcoat.
“Clearcoat” finishes, which allow the underlying fabric to show
through, are also popular on carbon and Kevlar® kayaks.
To recognize a composite kayak, look for a high gloss finish,
a seam between the deck and hull (although the hull and deck
may be the same color), and a different color on the inside of
the boat. The interior finish will usually display the woven fabric of the laminate or may occasionally be painted.
Your Mothership Repair Specialists
Thermoformed
A newer construction technique for kayak manufacture is
thermoforming. This process uses a vacuum to draw heated
plastic sheet material over a mold to create parts. The sheet
material used is a clever mix of two different plastics: acrylic and ABS. Acrylic-capped ABS consists of a thin sheet of
acrylic permanently bonded to a thicker sheet of ABS. The
resulting material displays the desirable properties of both plastics: ABS vacuum forms beautifully but doesn’t have a great
finish; acrylic won’t vacuum form but has an excellent glossy
finish. Combined in one sheet material, the two plastics produce crisply molded high gloss parts that rival composites in visual appeal. Although more prone to flex than composites, and
somewhat heavier, thermoformed boats seem to be on par with
composites relative to resistance to impact, although long-term
durability remains to be seen. Overall thermoformed kayaks
provide a good compromise between the greater affordability
of polyethylene boats and the beauty and lightness of composite ones.
To recognize a thermoformed boat, look for a finish rivaling
that of a composite kayak, but expect to find more flex. The
real visual clue, however, is that the interior color will be the
same as the exterior, with a smooth finish unlike the more textured and different colored interior found within a composite
kayak. 
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
41
paddle meals
by Hilary Masson
Ceviche
I
n Baja Mexico, fishing from a kayak is often phenomenal. It
gets you hooked on fishing with a handline and can provide
the fresh fish for a traditional ceviche—a citrus marinated
seafood salad. Just about any fresh seafood can be used in the
making of ceviche, including shellfish. This easy and healthy
treat is typically served as an appetizer on crackers or crusty
bread, as a seafood cocktail or as a salad. Needing minimal prep
work, cerviche is the perfect way to enjoy a refreshing seafood
dish in a hot climate. It is delicious, so be sure to make lots!
It is hard to describe ceviche preparations without a few
words about the diversity of fishing opportunities in Mexico. In
these waters, paddling over a rocky shoal or reef and working
a handline can produce Cabria (a type of rock fish) or the tasty
white-fleshed Trigger Fish. A different strategy is casting from
shore where schools of Jack Fish often swim close by. I’m often
amazed at the abundance and variety of fish that will investigate any shiny lure. And swimming along the shore in snorkeling gear in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez can provide
more than aquatic vistas—when the conditions are right we
find smooth sandy bottoms where large, dark colored clams (locally called chocolate clams) are abundant. Unlike in the Pacific
Northwest, the Baja tidal height does not provide beaches for
digging clams, so it’s necessary to get in the water and search
for siphons sticking out of the sand. Free diving for clams is fun,
and you can definitely improve with practice. Some savvy locals
are able to get ten or more clams per breath.
Fishing being what it is, we’d likely go hungry if I was relying
on catching fish for a meal, but between fishing and snorkeling
for clams we are often able to provide a special treat for a group
lunch.
Ceviche is a hit anywhere, and with fresh seafood opportunities in British Columbia, I always plan for a ready supply of key
limes on my kayak trips there as well. The ultimate is salmon
ceviche. Salmon is an excellent base for this dish as it slices
so beautifully. The onion and cilantro combination is ideally
matched with the flavor of marinated salmon, and the color
combination is impressive. With salmon ceviche, try making a
sour cream and horseradish spread for the crackers. This will
be a big hit with your fellow paddlers!
Happy paddling, fishing and eating on the beach! All you
need is your snorkel or your fishing gear.
42
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Ceviche
The only tools necessary for making ceviche are a lime press, a big spoon
and a big bowl. Cleaning and rinsing the seafood prepares it for soaking
in lime juice. Clams or scallops must be shucked, prawn heads removed,
teeth removed from octopus, and it’s best if fish are carefully filleted. The
whole point of ceviche is to “cook” the seafood in a lime marinade. The
acidic nature of the limes will change the color of the fish, making it easy
to determine when the lime has soaked all the way through, effectively
cooking it. This can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour-and-a-half
depending on the type of fish and the size of pieces.
1
15
1
4
2
1
2
1/4
1/4
1/2
pound seafood of your choice, chopped in thin slices
key limes, juiced
onion, diced
tomatoes, diced
green chilies, finely chopped
bunch of cilantro, finely chopped
avocados, sliced
teaspoon salt
teaspoon pepper
teaspoon oregano
1. After rinsing, evenly chop seafood into thin pieces and collect in the
bowl.
2. Squeeze the juice of 15 limes into the bowl, and thoroughly mix the
seafood.
3. Add the diced onion (this needs to be in the lime juice for the same
length of time as the seafood).
4. While the fish is cooking in the lime marinade, prepare the other ingredients: chop cilantro, tomato, green chilies and avocado. Grated carrots
and finely chopped peppers of all colors can also be added if you want
to be creative and original.
5. Stir all of these ingredients in the bowl with the soaking limes, seafood
and onions.
6. A great addition is a topping of salsa, although some cooks prefer to add
something sweet like ketchup to balance the sour limes.
Ceviche is best served scooped on top of crackers or on tostadas. The corn
tortillas that are made into round, hard chips are ideal. 
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
43
ENDLESS LOVE
THE WATER CYCLE FOR KAYAKERS
E
arth? The third rock from the sun?
What kind of names are these?
I much prefer the Blue Planet,
which is less about my favorite color
than it is about how “Earth” really looks,
at least on the surface. Indoors, in cities
and inland, it’s easy to forget we live on a
planet that’s mostly covered in liquid water (over 70 percent). As kayakers, we’re
always on the lookout for interesting bits
of water to dip our paddles into. But how
much do you really know about H2O?
Are all 6 or 7 billion of us using it up,
or are rising sea levels going to submerge
us? Kayakers should know more about
water than landlubbers, so let’s take a
quick dip into the water cycle.
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44
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Water Water Everywhere...
We often hear about water shortages
and even water wars. How can we not
have enough water when we live on a
planet that’s mostly covered in it? The
ancient mariner provides us with a clue
after he makes the mistake of killing an
albatross. Apparently, pointlessly killing
seabirds is bad luck, and his ship gets becalmed. As everyone aboard slowly dies
of thirst, Coleridge treats us to those oftrepeated lines:
by Bryan Nichols
Water, water, every where,
And all the boards did shrink ;
Water, water, every where,
Nor any drop to drink.
The morbid (and poetic) irony of dying of thirst while floating on an ocean
of water is a lesson to consider, especially
since we are presently driving about
17 of the 24 species of albatross to extinction. To ensure a healthy supply of
drinking water, even on a planet covered
in water, we have to know something
about the water cycle. This is literally a
matter of life and death. Poorly managed water cycles result in more than
3 millions deaths a year, most of them
children. Unfortunately, we’re raising
generations, at least in North America,
who don’t know much more than “clean
water comes from a tap or bottle; dirty
water goes down a drain.” As kayakers,
boaters, voters, and as ecologically aware
citizens, we need to know more.
From Here to Eternity
The thing about water is, we don’t use
it up. It’s a renewable resource. A cycle.
Round and round that water goes, from
clouds to creeks to carrots to our kidneys,
and one way or another, it leaves us to >>
Paddle the Flat Tops
Silva Bay
GABRIOLA ISLAND, BC
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Silva Bay — Gabriola Island
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
45
join the cycle again. Water gets around
using those “tion” words that you might
remember from weather reports or high
school. Let’s start with a hot day at the
beach, appropriate conditions for sea
kayaking. As the sun warms the sea surface, we get—you guessed it—evaporation. The magic of the water cycle is that
when liquid water evaporates into water
vapor (a gas), it can defy gravity and rise
high up into the sky. Well, it’s not really
magic, it’s physics, and as the old saying
goes, what goes up must come down. Before it comes back down, it needs to become liquid again. So after evaporation
we get condensation, where water forms
tiny droplets or ice crystals that become
clouds. Our next “tion” is precipitation,
and down comes the water, falling as rain,
snow or something in between. If it falls
back into the ocean, we’re back where
we started. If it falls on land, things get
more complicated, much to the delight
of those kayakers who like rivers.
There are a couple other “tions” appropriate to water on land, including
percolation (when water sinks into the
ground) and transpiration (when plants
46
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
take up water through their roots and
emit it as water vapor). What’s important
though, is that water keeps going around
in the cycle over and over, powered by
the sun and gravity. When you drink a
glass of water you don’t use it up—you
merely turn clean, fresh water into dirty,
salty water. In this sense, we’re drinking
the same water molecules our ancestors
did, and the same ones the dinosaurs
did. It just keeps going around the water cycle. The tiny percentage of Earth’s
water that we can drink gets desalinated
(by evaporation perhaps) and cleaned
(by percolation, wetland filtration, etc.)
along the way.
Water and Weather
We hear about droughts and floods
all the time in the news, as the water on
our blue planet shifts around. Global climate change won’t change the amount
of water on earth—but it may change
where it falls, where it travels, and how
much of it is available. The water cycle
is powered by sunlight and gravity, but
the tilt of the earth is important to how
that water moves around. Things like
tropical evaporation rates, seasonal monsoons and deep sea currents all add to
those complicated weather patterns that
decide how much rain falls where, and
that rainfall has a profound effect on life.
Climate changes have caused societies
to collapse all over the world. We might
be getting better at predicting climate
change, but we seem to be getting better
at causing it as well. As the world warms,
the water cycle will continue—hopefully
we’ll be able to adapt to the changes.
Kayaking the Water Cycle
Kayaks roam the edges of the planet’s
giant water cycles because we move at
or near the interface of land and water.
The atmospheric sections of the cycle
are pretty much inaccessible to kayakers, as are the ocean depths. Up in the
sky, clouds and humidity contain only
a tiny fraction of the amount of water
on earth (.001 percent), but they’re critical to movement in the cycle. Kayakers
don’t take to the skies too much, and we
are rarely, if ever, completely submerged.
Both events, should they ever happen to
you, tend to be as memorable as they are
brief. Surf is typically involved. Kayaks
don’t often get into underground water
either, though I have paddled in numerous springs and floated through limestone caves in an inner tube.
Kayaking starts on top of the land
when precipitation either percolates into
the ground or becomes runoff. Runoff
starts small—sheet flow, drains, creeks
and streams. It doesn’t need to get much
wider than a kayak before intrepid river
kayakers are going with the flow. Unless
the geography cuts it off, gravity pulls
surface and ground water towards the
oceans. With occasional stops for ponds
and lakes, streams become rivers, rivers
flow into estuaries, and fresh water mixes into the oceans again. There’s great
kayaking in all of those places, sometimes by just following one river to the
sea. Speaking of oceans, there are about
860,000 kilometres worth of coastline on
so-called “Earth.” One of the best ways
to appreciate the Blue Planet’s ever flowing water cycle is to visit as many parts
of it as you can with a kayak. How many
have you paddled? 
Celebrating 36 Years
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
47
book and dvd reviews
by Diana Mumford
Oceanic Wilderness
Pacific Horizons:
exploring the northwest coast by kayak
by Roger Steene
Firefly Books, 2007
ISBN 978-1-55297-000-0
$59.95, 340 pp, hardcover
color photos
www.fireflybooks.com
filmed and directed by Bryan Smith
Reel Water Productions, 2007
$29.95, 60 minute DVD
www.pacifichorizonsfilm.blogspot.com
www.helipress.com
Oceanic Wilderness is a truly
breathtaking collection of over
600 well-captioned photos taken
by an accomplished underwater
photographer. The large (11 in.
x 12.75 in.) hardcover book of over 300 pages showcases spectacular
images of the brilliant, intricate, amazing creatures—some never previously photographed or named—that live in oceans around the world.
Roger Steene has explored coral reefs, tidepools and other marine
habitats in locations in the Caribbean, the Pacific and Indian Oceans,
and the waters along the coasts of Japan, Australia and Southeast Asia,
finding and photographing rare organisms. Using new technology, he
was able to work at great depths, capturing images of microscopic life.
The incredible beauty and bizarreness represented in the photographs
chosen for Oceanic Wilderness will never be seen first-hand by the vast
majority of people, which makes this volume a priceless tool adding to
our understanding of the marine environment and the importance of
protecting its fascinating bio-diversity. This is a book to place near a
comfortable chair to be explored and savored over time.
This DVD production is a compilation
of segments filmed in British Columbia and Oregon. Included is an introduction to Greenland Rolling featuring Dubside; footage of a 6 day
expedition to the Bunsby Islands on the west coast of Vancouver Island; kayak surfing on the Oregon coast; sea kayaking in tidal races in
the Skookumchuk near Egmont, BC and Surge Narrows off Quadra
Island; a short piece about a circumnavigation of Vancouver Island
by kayak; an introduction to the southern resident orcas in the San
Juan Islands by The Center for Whale Research; and some footage
of Justine Curgenven’s journey around Haida Gwaii with Shawna
Franklin and Leon Somme (more to come in a Cackle TV production
in 2008). Together, these segments showcase the variety of amazing
paddling experiences available in British Columbia and the Pacific
Northwest in the US. Each features athletic paddlers, pursuing adventurous experiences and serves as inspiration to get out and enjoy
the beauty of the Pacific coast by kayak.
Whales & Dolphins
of the North
American Pacific
Digital Wildlife
Photography
by David Tipling
Firefly Books, 2007
$24.95, 112 pp, color photos, index
ISBN 978-1-55407-305-4
www.fireflybooks.com
Professional wildlife photographer
David Tipling shares his knowledge
and experience in this new guide to
digital photography, providing upto-date information on such topics
as choosing a digital camera and other equipment, storing images and
backing up files, enhancing photos with and without Photoshop, working with various file formats, printing and scanning images, and strategies for photographing animals. He explains the jargon that may seem
baffling to some, and for budding professional photographers, there
is a chapter on marketing your work. Fabulous photos on every page
illustrate a text written in a personal style, drawing on the author’s
experiences with photographing animals in the studio and the field.
This is a useful guide for anyone wanting to learn more about digital photography and how to take stunning wildlife photographs using
new technology and techniques. Even experienced photographers will
benefit from learning how Tipling approaches his work, and can apply
his techniques to their own way of working. Amateur photographers
can read and practice now, and be ready for encounters with wildlife
during the paddling season!
48
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
by Graeme Cresswell, Dylan
Walker, Todd Pusser
Harbour Publishing, 2007
$21.95 CAN/$19.95 US
216 pp, color photos and drawings, glossary, index
ISBN 978-1-55017-409-0
www.harbourpublishing.com
This concise but comprehensive guide to marine mammals is packed
with well-organized information, and lavishly illustrated with color
photographs, charts and illustrations. In addition to facts specific to
39 cetacean species, 6 species of seals and sea lions and the sea otter,
there is general information on how to identify the animal you are
seeing by observing behavior or characteristic features. Quick Reference Guides show the relative size of families of species, and color
coded maps show seasonal distribution, breeding areas and other key
information. This guide is a small enough to pack into your kayak and
has a place aboard any mothership whether you are on the water off
Mexico or Alaska or anywhere in between. It provides a huge amount
of fascinating information about marine mammals, and tips for responsible whale watching and photography. Proceeds from the sale of
each copy are donated to the American Cetacean Society.
Enchanted Isles: The
Southern Gulf Islands
Boat Green: 50 Steps
Boaters Can Take to Save
Our Waters
by David A.E. Spalding
photographs by Kevin Oke
Harbour Publishing, 2007
ISBN 978-1-55017-422-9
$34.95, 144 pp, hardcover
color photos, index
www.harbourpublishing.com
by Clyde W. Ford
New Society Publishers, 2008
$17.95, 224 pp
ISBN 978-0-865-71590-5
www.newsociety.com
Enchanted Isles provides an enticing
glimpse into the history and present
day culture of the Canadian southern Gulf Islands—the group of islands that lie just off the southeastern shore of Vancouver Island. The waters that surround these dozens
of islands from Gabriola in the north to D’Arcy in the south—some
large, some merely islets—are a mecca for boaters of every ilk. Plenty
of secure harbors provide protection for anchoring, marinas on the
larger islands offer dockside mooring and other amenities, the short
distances between destinations make for great day sailing, campsites
are within paddling distance of one another, and a variety of resort
and B&B accommodation provides an option for those who prefer to
do their exploring from a home base on land. Although they share
some commonalities by virtue of being islands, each Gulf Island has
a unique history, a distinct cultural flavor, and its own set of political
and social issues. The author and the photographer who collaborated
on the creation of this book live on one of the islands, and bring their
insider understanding to the text and images. Dazzling photos that
capture the physical beauty of the coastal landscape, as well as archival and contemporary photos of the people who settled here after
the first European explorers arrived, are set alongside text organized
into chapters, each dealing with one of the bigger islands or groups
of smaller islands. The book begins and ends with additional general
information about some of the qualities of Gulf Island living. A list of
titles for further reading is an excellent resource for those whose interest has been piqued by this introduction to the southern Gulf Islands.
WaveLength
MAGAZINE
No one can dispute the negative effect
of human activity on the ocean and its
shorelines and the lakes and rivers of
North America. Everywhere there is
evidence of pollution, habitat degradation and interference with the
natural life of marine plants and animals. The author maintains that
while boaters are not the main source of problems related to the declining health of our waterways (eutrophication, sedimentation, acidification, toxic contamination), as front-line users, we are important
advocates for solutions to these problems and we can adjust our behavior to minimize our impact on the environment. Boat Green outlines
some of the problems facing marine ecosystems, and straightforward
strategies that individuals can take to address these problems. The
pros and cons of biodiesel and ethanol fuels, 4-stroke and 2-stroke engines, diesel, gasoline and electric outboards, and the environmental
implications of their use are outlined. Issues around marine sewage
and sanitation are explored, including types of marine sanitation devices, maintenance of holding tanks, dry heads (a kind of composting
toilet), using pump-out facilities, and handling of grey water. Other
topics discussed in this comprehensive manual include: prevention
of onboard fires, the prudent use of radar, recycling while cruising,
opportunities for using solar and wind power, extending the life of
batteries, best practices in boatyards, handling of bilge water, environmentally friendly cleaning products, the welfare of wild animals and
pets, behavior ashore, and working with others to promote environmentally responsible boating. Boat Green would be a great resource for
yacht clubs and boating organizations to circulate among members
and perhaps use as a starting point for a committee dedicated to raising awareness and planning environmental boating events. 
SUBSCRIBE OR RENEW TODAY
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
49
WAVELENGTH BOOKSTORE
SKILLS
EasyKayaking Basics
Sea Kayak
By Gary Backlund & Paul Grey
168 pp, 5.5” x 8.5”, $16.95 CDN/US
By Mary Ann Snowden
160 pages, 5” x 7”, b/w, $16.95 CDN/US
New enthusiast faces a daunting array of questions and
choices. What kind of kayak is right for me, how big should
it be and how much will it cost? What do I wear? What kind
of food do I bring? And just how do I stay right side up?
Easykayaking answers these questions and many more.
Each of the 23 trips outlined are headed with important
information on tides, currents, safety considerations, charts
and launching. Included in each route description is practical information on the different land jurisdictions, parks,
campsites, suitable landings and paddling conditions.
A PADDLING HANDBOOK FOR THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
THE GULF ISLANDS
Sea Kayak Strokes
Sea Kayak
A GUIDE TO EFFICIENT PADDLING SKILLS
NOOTKA & KYUQUOT SOUNDS
By Doug Alderson
176 pages, 6” x 9”, b/w, $19.95 CDN/US
By Heather Harbord
160 pages, 5” x 7”, b/w, $16.95 CDN/US
Sea Kayak Strokes is a concise manual for learning and
improving paddling skills. Alderson’s tips will help you paddle faster and with less effort, turn your kayak with greater
ease, and keep your head above water using quick and effective bracing techniques.
Nootka and Kyuquot Sounds are the next step for sea kayakers who have enjoyed the Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast,
Desolation Sound and the Broken Islands. The book breaks
the area down into 49 trips. Once out there, wind and weather will dictate where you go depending on your skill level.
PADDLING GUIDES
The Wild Coast 1
A KAYAKING GUIDE FOR NORTH AND WEST VANCOUVER ISLAND
By John Kimantas
300 pp, 6” x 9”, color, $24.95 CDN/US
Sea Kayak
BARKLEY & CLAYOQUOT SOUNDS
This the ultimate guide to kayaking and exploring the stunning west coast of Vancouver Island. Each of the 11 chapters
describes a distinct area of the island, with attractions, amenities, ecology, Native and European history, place names,
landing sites, campsites, and trivia all included.
By Mary Ann Snowden
192 pages, 5” x 7”, b/w, $19.95 CDN/US
For the experienced and novice alike, this comprehensive
guide leads paddlers through the best kayaking waters on
the west coast of Vancouver Island. Twenty trips are outlined, covering prime paddling destinations within Barkley
and Clayoquot sounds, including the Deer Group, the Broken Group Islands, and Vargas, Flores and Meares islands.
The Wild Coast 2
A KAYAKING GUIDE FOR NORTH AND CENTRAL BC COAST
By John Kimantas
344 pp, 6” x 9”, color, $29.95 CDN/US
Sea Kayak
DESOLATION SOUND AND THE SUNSHINE COAST
By Heather Harbord
176 pages, 5” x 7”, b/w, $19.95 CDN/US
This paddling guide to Desolation Sound and the Strait of
Georgia provides historical and travel information about the
mainland coast north of Vancouver, BC.
Journey through the Inside and Outside Passages of BC from
north Vancouver Island to the Alaska border. Each chapter
explores a part of BC’s remote coastline and discusses the
region’s Native and European history, geography, weather,
ecology, attractions and services. Detailed maps show the major points of interest and the best campsites.
The Wild Coast 3
A KAYAKING GUIDE FOR BC’s SOUTH COAST AND EAST VANCOUVER ISLAND
Sea Kayak
AROUND VANCOUVER ISLAND
By Doug Alderson
160 pages, 5” x 7”, b/w, $16.95 CDN/US
Covers a full circumnavigation of Vancouver Island. Interested in a grand expedition, a week of summer touring, or a
weekend excursion? Each chapter in this guide book covers a
section of the island providing ample information on: points
of access, interesting sites, safe routes to travel, hazards to
avoid, and comfortable campsites.
By John Kimantas
344 pp, 6” x 9”, color, $29.95 CDN/US
Provides explorers with everything they need to know about
the south coast and east Vancouver Island, from Victoria to
Port McNeill. This point-by-point guide, designed for kayakers, describes the details, hazards, geography, ecology, history,
hikes and attractions of each location.
ORDER FORM PAGE 52
50
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
MAPS
Stikine River
A GUIDE TO PADDLING THE GREAT RIVER
By Jennifer Voss
224 pp, 5.5” x 8.5”, b/w, $19.95 CDN/US
BC Coastal Recreation Kayaking
and Small Boat Atlas
VOLUME 1, SOUTH B.C. COAST AND EAST VANCOUVER ISLAND
By John Kimantas
48 pages, 11” x 14”, full color, $39.95 CDN/US
The only available guide to the Stikine River, this book provides information for anyone planning a guided or self-guided paddling trip on the Stikine River by canoe, kayak or raft.
It includes general trip planning tips and specific information
on the route.
Volume One in this atlas series contains waterproof and
manageably sized, detailed maps of British Columbia’s
shorelines from Victoria to Port McNeill. Numerous landbased features are identified, including campsites and
launch locations. Ideal for kayakers who want a detailed
overview in an easy-to-use format.
The Broken Islands
By Douglas Brunt
112 pp, 5.5” x 8.5”, b/w, $19.95 CDN/US
This new edition of The Broken Islands guide has been updated with current access and contact information, and expanded to include maps, charts, graphs, natural and cultural
history chapters, and photographs of plants and animals.
This is a useful resource that will help to ensure a safe and
enjoyable trip to The Broken Islands.
BC Coastal Recreation Kayaking
and Small Boat Atlas
VOLUME 2, WEST COAST VANCOUVER ISLAND
By John Kimantas
48 pages, 11” x 14”, color, $39.95 CDN/US
Volume 2 provides maps of the west coast of British Columbia from Sooke to Port Hardy. Numerous land-based
features are identified, among them campsites and launch
locations. Ideal for kayakers who want a detailed overview
in an easy-to-use format.
Paddling Through History
SEA KAYAK VANCOUVER AND VICTORIA
By Aileen Stalker and Andrew Nolan
192 pages, 5” x 7”, b/w, $19.95 CDN/US
Experience inner-city paddling with a guide that tells the story
of BC’s biggest city from water level. Explore history with the
tales behind the people, bridges, lighthouses, museums and
watercraft that come to life in this guide, which also includes
a section on Victoria.
EasyKayaker
A GUIDE TO LAID-BACK VANCOUVER ISLAND PADDLING
192 pp, 6” x 9”, $24.95 CDN/US
Discover easy-to-paddle trips in thorough easy-to-read chapters and all the basic information you’ll need to get started—
with sections on buying a suitable kayak, camping, kayaking
with kids and how to choose an appropriate tour guide. Covers
eastern Vancouver Island and other paddling locations; Gulf
Islands, Broken Group and Nootka Sound.
COOKING
One-Pot Wonders
JAMES BARBER’S RECIPES FOR LAND AND SEA
By James Barber
192 pages, 9” x 6”, b/w, $24.95 CDN/US
One-Pot-Wonder features over one hundred mouthwatering, simple gourmet recipes from James Barber,
who was Canada’s most famous television chef and
author of more than fourteen best-selling cookbooks.
This is a perfect cookbook for people who are wet and cold and want dinner in a hurry.
WAVELENGTH BACK ISSUES
Kayaking Vancouver Island
TRIPS FROM PORT HARDY TO VICTORIA
Back issues of WaveLength Magazine
are available while quantities last. Go
to www.WaveLengthMagazine.com to
browse the content of previous issues.
$4.95 each (plus shipping)
295 pp, 6” x 9”, $24.95 CDN/US
Trips ranging from a lazy day excursion in Victoria’s historic
Gorge waterway to an exciting multi-day voyage around
Meares Island in Clayoquot Sound, the authors cover everything from launch sites to lunch sites, which currents to avoid
and which tides to ride. The book is rich in local mythology,
folklore and history. Writing with safety and (mostly) easy
paddling in mind, Backlund and Grey rate paddling skills required for each area.
ORDER FORM PAGE 52
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
51
PEOPLE
ENVIRONMENT
Beyond the Whales
Painter, Paddler
THE ART AND ADVENTURES OF STEWART MARSHALL
By Alexandra Morton
144 pp, 9” x 8”, color & b/w, $19.95 CDN/US
By Andrew Scott
144 pages, 10.5” x 9.5”, color & b/w, $44.95 CDN/US
Through a her stunning photographs, Alexandra Morton portrays life on the central BC coast and explains
what is going on beyond the beauty of the images:
“One of the joys of watching a place for 20 years is
being able to read the signs upon the sea. The ocean
feeds the rivers and the rivers feed the ocean.”
For much of the past two decades, Stewart Marshall has
travelled hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles in a
hand-built kayak, living off the land and the sea and
painting on some of British Columbia’s most remote shorelines. This insightful portrayal captures the highs and lows of a lifetime of painting and paddling.
Marine Mammals
Bill Mason
OF THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
WILDERNESS ARTIST
By Pieter Folkens
8 pp, 5.5” x 9” color pamphlet, $9.95 CDN/US
By Ken Buck
224 pages, 10” x 8”, color & b/w, $39.95 CDN/US
Convenient, concise and waterproof, this three-fold handy
pocket guide to fifty species of marine mammals features color
illustrations and photos of humpbacks, greys, orcas, bottlenose
dolphins and Dall’s porpoises, sea lions and five species of seals.
It also includes a habitat key and identification tips.
This is the story of Canada’s most famous canoeing
artist. The camera lens and the pallet knife were his
instruments. The wild places were his inspiration.
This book provides insight into a man driven by a
passion for nature.
A Field Guide
Around One More Point
TO THE IDENTIFICATION OF PEBBLES
A JOURNAL OF PADDLING ADVENTURES
By Eileen Van der Flier-Keller
2 pp, 37” x 9” color pamphlet, $7.95 CDN/US
By Mary Gazetas
96 pp, 9” x8”, color, $24.95 CDN/US
Have you ever been walking at the beach and wondered what
that pebble or rock is? The Field Guide to the Identification of
Pebbles, is a full color, laminated, accordion folded, easy to use
guide with over 80 beautiful photographs of pebbles from beaches
and rivers. Use the photos to identify over 28 different types of rocks
and minerals.
A journal “sketchbook” of writings, photographs
and drawings that capture the adventures of BC artist
and paddler Mary Gazetas, for almost 25 years. The
journeys include paddle trips in Barkley, Clayoquot,
Nootka and Kyuquot sounds, the Broughton Archipelago, the central coast and Haida
Gwaii (the Queen Charlotte Islands).
ORDER FORM
QUANTITY
WAVELENGTH BOOKSTORE TITLES (pages 50-52)
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52
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
events
January 24 – February 2
Seattle Boat Show
Adventure Tourism
Qwest Field, Seattle, WA
www.seattleboatshow.com
Programs
February 2 – 3
Sea Kayak and Canoe Winter Seminar
ificate
5-month cert
Washington Water Trails Association
Mercer Island, WA
www.wwta.org/seminar
oma
ear dipl
or 2-y
February 6 – 10
Vancouver International Boat Show
BC Place Stadium, Vancouver, BC
www.vancouverboatshow.ca
February 9 – 23
Patagonia Expedition Race
Chile, Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia
www.patagoniaexpeditionrace.com
March 5 – 9
Sacramento Boat Show
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Sacramento, CA
www.sacramentoboatshow.com
March 7 – 9
Canoecopia
Madison, WI
www.canoecopia.com
K AYA K & C A N O E
sales
rentals
March 14 – 16
22nd Annual Santa Cruz Kayak Surf Festival
Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz, CA
www.asudoit.com
BCU Instruction
March 27 – 30
Tacoma Boat Show
Visit our stores in Portland,
Bend and Hood River, OR
Racoma Dome, Tacoma, WA
www.otshows.com/TBS/tbs.htm
888 571.4545
shop.aldercreek.com
May 2 – 4
Georgian Bay Kayak & Canoe Festival & Concert
Nobel, ON
www.whitesquall.com/festival.php
May 9 – 11
20th Annual Alaska Sea Kayaking Symposium
Alaska Pacific University, Anchorage, AK
www.aksks.org
May 9 – 11
5th Annual Reno River Festival
Reno, NV
www.RenoRiverFestival.com
May 10 – 11
10th Annual Vancouver Island Paddlefest
Ladysmith, BC
www.Paddlefest.bc.ca
May 17 – 18
Puget Sound Sea Kayak Symposium
Owens Beach, Pt. Defiance Park, Tacoma, WA
www.metroparkstacoma.org
>>
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
53
coastal news
May 30 – 31
Columbia River Paddle Festival
North Howard Amon Park, Richland, WA
www.ColumbiaKayakAdventures.com/events.html
June 8
Round Bowen Challenge
Bowen Island, BC
www.roundbowenchallenge.com
June 20 – 22
Rossport Kayak Symposium
Lake Superior, Rossport ON
www.naturallysuperior.com
July 17 – 20
24th Annual Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium
Grand Marais, MI
www.glsks.com
August 21 – 24
Ladies of the Lake Sea Kayak Symposium
Drummond Island, MI
www.downwindsports.com
August 22 – 24
Greenland Style Paddling Symposium
Lake Superior, Wawa, ON
www.naturallysuperior.com
September 5 – 7
1st annual North East Canoe and Kayak
Symposium
Spruce Run Recreation Area, Clinton, NJ
Trade Association of Paddlesports
www.gopaddle.org
September 19 – 21
25th Anniversary West Coast Sea Kayak
Symposium
Port Townsend, WA
Trade Association of Paddlesports
www.gopaddle.org 
Paddlefest 2008 – Canada’s West Coast
Premier Paddlesports Event
The 10th annual Paddlefest will be
held at Transfer Beach, Ladysmith on
May 10 and 11, 2008. Come to celebrate
the 10th anniversary of Paddlefest, featuring a vendor/trade show, workshops
and demos. For more information about
this year’s event, visit the Paddlefest website: www.Paddlefest.bc.ca
Gerald Island – New Provincial Marine
Park
The BC government, working in partnership with The Land Conservancy of
BC, has reached an agreement to acquire
Gerald Island for future designation as a
provincial marine park. The 11.65 hectare (28.8 acre) island is located in the
Ballenas-Winchelsea Archipelago of 13
islands and numerous islets located near
Nanoose Bay. Gerald Island is a good
example of the rocky coastal bluff ecosystem rarely found undisturbed in the
Coastal Douglas-fir biogeoclimatic zone
in the southern Strait of Georgia. It is
home to northern and California sea
lions, bald eagles, and various bird and
marine species. The ministry is investigating the feasibility of establishing a
marine park in the Ballenas-Winchelsea
Archipelago. following consultations with
the Nanoose First Nation, Qualicum First
Nation and the Te’mexw Treaty Association, and federal and local governments,
if this park is established, Gerald Island
will be included.
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
seeks E.D.
(WWTA) in Seattle, Washington is recruiting a new Executive Director to begin work May, 2008.
In 2007 WWTA expanded the Cascadia Marine Trail to 56 campsites in
Puget Sound, and is actively involved
in water trail development across Washington State, forging important partnerships to help further WWTA’s mission.
These trails include the Lakes-To-Locks
Water Trail, Willapa Bay Water Trails,
Northwest Discovery Water Trail, Lower
Columbia River Water Trails, and the
Greater Columbia Water Trail.
WWTA’s mission is to promote advocacy, education, and stewardship of
public access to Washington’s waterways
for people in human and wind powered
beachable watercraft. WWTA is looking
for a strong leader with organizational
skills and management experience. It is
preferable this individual have experience working with a non-profit board of
directors. This person will be responsible
for the development of trails in cooperation with state and federal agencies, will
supervise outreach programs, public relations, fundraising and grant writing. A
passion for outdoor recreation is a plus.
Candidates should send cover letter
and resume via email to the executive
search committee at edsearch@wwta.
org
Chemicals Found in Young Orcas
Young Southern Resident Orcas,
which frequent the waters of Puget
Sound, Haro Strait, the Strait of Juan
de Fuca and lower Georgia Strait, have
more contaminants in their bodies than
older whales in the group, according to
a report published in the journal Marine
Pollution Bulletin in October 2007. “The
most unexpected finding from the study
was that, among whales sampled, the
highest levels of three toxic contaminant
groups—the flame retardant and two
pesticides—came from a three-year-old
male,” said Dr. Peggy Krahn, lead author of the paper. The findings of this
collaborative study by Canadian and US
researchers are causing concern because
it was previously believed that chemicals from food accumulate in orcas over
time, making older animals more at risk.
This contamination of young individuals
could well affect the health of future generations. The Southern Resident Orcas
were listed as endangered under the US
federal Endangered Species Act in 2005.
There are now 88 orcas in this group.
New Website for Wild Salmon
Supporters
The Coastal Alliance for Aquaculture Reform (CAAR) launched the Wild
Salmon Supporters Program in the
Fall of 2007 with a new website: www.
SalmonSupporters.com. The program
is dedicated to working with chefs, restaurants and retailers who are making a
commitment to rejecting farmed salmon
until the industry shifts to more sustainable production methods. The website
features profiles of businesses that are
Wild Salmon Supporters, downloadable
resources that answer questions about the
impacts of salmon farming, and food industry news on sustainability. Consumers
can access a list of restaurants that have
signed on as Wild Salmon Supporters.
Two New Films
Salmon Coast Research Station Part 3
Do lice kill young wild salmon? In this
short film, the third in a series, Twyla
Roscovich delves a little deeper into
some of the research happening at the
remote Salmon Coast Research Station,
located in the Broughton Archipelago
where researchers conduct experiments
on salmon and sea lice. In this episode,
the research team is amazed to discover
how much damage one louse has inflicted on a fish.
After the Spill in Robson Bight
Six weeks after a barge tipped, dumping a fuel tanker and logging equipment into the Robson Bight Ecological
Reserve, the equipment was still leaking
petroleum products in the orcas’ rubbing
beach sanctuary.
To watch these short films, visit www.
callingfromthecoast.com
BC Marine Trails Initiative
The Nanaimo Paddlers have formed a
committee in order to address concerns
about losing access to large parts of the
BC coastline for kayak touring. They are
hoping to compile a list of “safe havens”
with the idea of having them established
as Land Act Notations of Interest for
Use, Recreation and Enjoyment by the
Public (UREP-NOI) with the government. They want to network with other
paddling clubs and possibly form an umbrella group to deal with this issue. The
Marine Trails committee of the Nanaimo
Paddlers can be contacted through: mar
[email protected]
Puget Sound Partnership
The Puget Sound Partnership is mobilizing communities, agencies and organizations to work together to create a
comprehensive Action Agenda to restore
Puget Sound. The Action Agenda will
identify and set priorities for what work
needs to be done to achieve a healthy
Puget Sound. For more information or
to get involved, visit: www.psp.wa.gov
Definitive Sea Lice Study
A study appearing in the December
14 issue of the journal Science shows that
parasitic sea lice infestations caused by
salmon farms are driving nearby populations of wild salmon toward extinction.
The results show that the affected pink
salmon populations have been rapidly
declining for four years. The scientists
expect a 99% collapse in another four
years, or two salmon generations, if the
infestations continue. “The impact is so
severe that the viability of the wild salmon
populations is threatened,” says lead author Martin Krkosek, a fisheries ecologist
from the University of Alberta. Krkosek
and his co-authors calculate that sea lice
have killed more than 80% of the annual
pink salmon returns to BC’s Broughton
Archipelago. “If nothing changes, we
are going to lose these fish.” Previous
peer-reviewed papers by Krkosek and
others showed that sea lice from fish
farms can kill juvenile wild salmon. This,
however, is the first study to examine
the population-level effects on the wild
salmon stocks. “Salmon farming breaks
a natural law,” says co-author Alexandra Morton. “In the natural system, the
youngest salmon are not exposed to sea
lice because the adult salmon that carry
the parasite are offshore. But fish farms
cause a deadly collision between the vulnerable young salmon and sea lice. They
are not equipped to survive this, and
they don’t.” Salmon bring nutrients from
the ocean back to the coastal ecosystem.
Killer whales, bears, wolves, birds and
even trees depend on pink salmon. “If
you lose wild salmon there’s a lot you are
going to lose with them—including other
industries such as fishing and tourism,”
says Krkosek.
Round Bowen Island Kayak Race
There will some interesting changes
this year for the 9th Annual Kayak Race
around Bowen Island. Firstly, the race
will be held on a Sunday, June 8th, at 10
am. Secondly, the name will be changed
to the Round Bowen Challenge. Lastly,
two extra races will be run at the same
time as the traditional Round Bowen: a
relay race around the island for OC-1s
and 2s, and a short sprint course of 7 km.
The normal post race party will remain
the same with a salmon BBQ , wine and
beer, live music and prizes. www.roundbowenchallenge.com
Sewage Plan for Victoria
The Capital Regional District of Victoria has been given one year to finalize
a plan for sewage treatment in Greater
Victoria. The deadline and expectations
for the plan, which will cost billions to
implement, were delivered to the CRD
in a letter from BC Environment Minister Barry Penner on Dec. 14, 2007. 
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
55
the marketplace
COURSES
ASSOCIATIONS
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guide courses 2008
in tofino with dan lewis and bonny glambeck
may 3-11, may 17-25,
september 6-14.
call toll free
Madawaska Kanu Centre
located by Algonquin
Park, Ontario offers highly
personal instruction
from Beginner to Expert
levels. Weekend
and 5-Day Courses.
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WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
www.rainforestkayak.com
Sea Kayaking 613.594.5268
WWW.MKC.CA
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57
the marketplace
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59
loafer’s log
by Ron Mumford

Excerpts from the log of Loafer II, the
WaveLength crew’s mothership.
Clam Cove
Scarlett Point
Lighthouse
God’s Pocket
July 2007
Monday
Passing several cruise ships on the way, we headed
up to our favorite port of call this morning—Port
McNeill—to gas up, do the laundry (well equipped
laundromat a block up from the gas dock), shower
(clean showers and plenty of hot water in the
port office beside the ferry terminal), shop (for
groceries, gifts, fishing tackle, hardwear, etc.)
and to indulge in a restaurant lunch. After our
usual mad dash around town (“shop till you drop”
definitely applies) we moved out of our temporary
slip on the gas dock to make room for the next
shoppers.
When we left the Pearse Islands, we were planning
to head further north after refueling and taking
on provisions in McNeill, but with wind and rain
predicted, we decided to head over to Sointula on
Malcolm Island to weather out the incoming low
pressure system.
The calm at the small fishing village of Sointula
was a stark contrast to the crowded docks, seaplanes
and hustle and bustle of Port McNeill. The
municipal docks, well protected by a breakwater,
were quiet and had lots of space available. We
plugged in to shore power and noted the water hose
on the dock. Walking up to check in at the office, we
found showers, laundry machines and the Burger
Barn (fish & chips and burgers) at the head of the
dock.
60
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Tuesday
It was still raining and blowing this morning,
so we stayed put and explored Sointula on foot. A
twenty-minute walk along the waterfront road took
us downtown, to a community of fewer than 1000
residents with restaurants, co-op grocery store and
artisans’ studios and gift shops. We escaped the rain
by drinking coffee in the Wild Islands Foods Café
and Bakery, visiting Choyces Gifts & Gallery, and
chatting with Rebekah Parlee in her very cool Boathouse
Gallery.
Sointula was established by Finnish settlers in 1901
as a socialist commune, and residents today are proud
of the history of their village named “place of harmony”
in the Finnish language. We could have whiled away
time at the museum as well, but missed the open hours
(11 am to 3 pm daily in the summer).
Wednesday
After waiting out the wind and rain for two days, we
headed north, past Pulteney Point Lighthouse on the
northern tip of Malcolm Island, into Queen Charlotte
Strait and then Goletas Channel. Turning right,
we dropped in to visit Bill Weeks and Annie Ceschi
at God’s Pocket on Hurst Island. God’s Pocket is
primarily a diving resort with cabins nestled into an
idyllic, protected cove, but Bill and Annie have joined
forces with Terry and Nancy of Sea Kayak Adventures
to offer kayakers comfortable accommodation and
support to access this rugged part of Queen Charlotte
Strait.
Bill told us that at least one sea otter had been spotted
off Scarlett Point Lighthouse quite close to God’s
Pocket, but when we motored past the lighthouse later
and scanned the kelp beds, there was no sea otter
sighting for us today.
From Scarlett Point we headed up the east coast of
Balaclava Island to visit another diving/kayaking
destination in the Gordon Islands—Browning Pass
Hideaway—nestled in picturesque Clam Cove on Nigei
Island. To get to this well protected cove, we cruised
through a long, narrow channel before spotting a
group of float houses to starboard. Run by John
deBoeck, Browning Pass Hideaway Resort offers three
cozy guest cottages for small groups and individuals,
water taxi and kayak transport from Port Hardy, and
experienced guide services and advice for paddlers and
divers.
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
61
Thursday
We headed across the calm waters of Gordon
Channel for our next destination, a group of
islands located in the center of Queen Charlotte
Strait—the Walker Group—part of the larger
Deserters and Walker Group Conservation Area.
The Walkers provide a protected anchorage
located half way through the narrow channel
that separates the two biggest islands, Kent and
Staples Islands. On arrival, we tied up to a large
yellow buoy in the center of the bay, left by a
fish farm no longer in operation. This bay is a
perfect anchorage for pleasure boats looking for a
safe haven from which they can try their hand at
fishing for halibut (we spotted several carcasses
lying on the bottom below the boat) or as a layover before heading north across Queen Charlotte
Sound.
Friday
Despite gentle but persistent rain, we launched
the kayaks and headed off for a paddle. Thanks
to crystal clear water, we could see large spiny sea
urchins nibbling on the holdfasts of giant bull
kelp, colorful anemones clinging to rocky ledges
and schools of shiny feed fish. Above the water,
with the mist from the rising fog still hanging
in the trees, eagles chattered to each other from
lofty branches. In the distance and out of sight,
we could hear the blows of a humpback whale.
Due to the Walkers’ proximity to Queen Charlotte
Sound and the open Pacific, our kayaks rose and
fell in a gentle ocean swell as we paddled long
the east coast of Kent Island. Smaller rocks and
islets provided numerous channels, nooks and
crannies to poke our bows into. Perfect paddling
country!
At low tide, Kent Island is one island; incoming
tides flood shallow channels and lagoons to cut
the island into two at higher tides. This created a
circular route to explore, which ultimately led us
back to our anchorage and the comfort of Loafer II.
Next year we will explore the Deserter Group of
islands located across Shelter Passage just south
of the Walkers, but tomorrow we’ll head for Shelter
Bay on the mainland. 
62
WAVELENGTH MAGAZINE
Serving Vancouver Island. Comox Valley Kayaks
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Antonio de la Rosa in his Storm GT during the
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206.842.9229
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North Vancouver, BC
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It’s their life, it’s our life.....Make it yours.
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here - Wavelength Magazine

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