Sea Kayak Carolina

Delphin 150 Surf Test

2011-09-15T23:01:00.004-04:00

William and I took the chance to test two new P&H Delphin 150s that arrived in the shop this week. We headed to the south end of Folly and beach launched in ~5-10 knots of wind with 3-4 foot surf rolling in: Overall, optimal conditions for us to see what this kayak could do.

We shot some photos which may not be the greatest action shots...but should give a sense of the day and the conditions.

First William’s impressions —

“I found that the Delphin 150 performed nearly identically to its bigger sibling, the Delphin 155. For me at 5' 9'' and 155 pounds, it fit — I didn’t feel like I was sitting in a “Sherman tank.”as I have in the larger boat. I have loved paddling the 155 and feel it is an awesome rough water play boat. My problem has been that it has just a little too much volume for me. I sit too low in the cockpit and feel somewhat swallowed-up by it.

“The new Delphin 150 has a significantly tighter cockpit, lower front deck, and less volume. It feels much livelier to me. I was stable in the waves and really felt one with the kayak. It still had the classic edging, planning, maneuverability and stability of the larger boat. But I felt much more comfortable sitting in it.

“I was also impressed with how well it punched through the waves and the way its high rockered, high volume nose split the water and basically refused to nose dive. I came straight off the edge of several 4-footers and the nose hit the bottom and simply planed out instead of burying. The maneuverability it provides on the wave is unmatched in any other long boat I have been in before.

“I rolled it several times both on purpose and after being knocked over. It comes right over and was much easier for me to roll than the bigger boat. I really can’t say enough good things about it and if I decide to add a rough water play boat to my kayak stable this would hands down be the one. Great job P&H!!”

For myself, I generally agree with all that William had to say. I've also enjoyed the larger Delphin 155, and found it to be a great boat to surf, and develop surf skills in. But I've always preferred lower volume and tighter fitting kayaks — and the Delphin 150 delivers. P&H brought their white-water seat and cockpit outfitting into the Delphins, and it gives the boats great comfort, a secure feel, and surprising versatility when it comes to paddler size — we've had shop folk 5' 8'' to 6' 2'' in the original Delphin and I won't be surprised if a similarly wide range of smaller folks can make good use of the Delphin 150.

I spent less time in the boat and more time with a camera pointed at William, but my most notable impressions were of liveliness, of confident maneuverability and responsive edging on and off the face of the waves, and supremely buoyant action when punching out thru the surf, or when you felt another boat might have buried itself. This will be a great confidence builder for students (or anyone) developing their surf skills, and William won't be the only skilled paddler who chooses a Delphin-that-fits as their first choice when they go out to chase the waves.

Stay tuned for impressions form more paddlers and in a wider variety of conditions.

Cheers!

New Kayaks Galore

2011-09-14T13:48:00.015-04:00

Some of you may have been following and admiring P&H's awesome surf boat the Delphin 155. The only downside of this boat is it was designed for larger paddlers. We just received the new Delphin 150, which has less cockpit volume and is specifically designed for smaller paddlers. Be sure to stay tuned as Steve and I plan to sea test it tomorrow.

We also have a new Aries 155, the composite brethren to the Delphin, and a new highly sought after Cetus HV .

Be sure to come by the shop soon and check out these great new boats.

-- William

New Emergency Shelters have Arrived!

2011-09-02T12:25:00.016-04:00

I know it's been a long hot summer but winter is right around the corner and now is the time to start thinking about your winter paddling gear. Sea Kayak Carolina is ready to assist you with all your winter paddling needs.

Speaking of winter paddling, I wanted to let you all know about an awesome new piece of gear we just got in. The Tera Nova Bothy. It is an extremely lightweight and packable emergency shelter.

They are indispensable if you participate in any outdoor activity. Originally designed in response to the need for an inexpensive, lightweight shelter, Bothy bags are increasingly used by mountain rescue teams, outdoor centres and youth groups as emergency shelters. They can be a lifesaver if you have a cold wet hypothermic paddler that you need to warm up in a hurry.

Check out this review from PaddlingLight.com

They also can also provide a simple shelter for lunch stops.

Bothy bags are made from ripstop nylon and are windproof, highly water resistant and very strong.

- Creates a warm internal microclimate
- Durable waterproof seats
- 'UV - clear' windows to view the weather outside!
- Roof attachment for walking pole
- Two, four, eight and twelve person models available

Lots of exciting new gear/programs at SKC

2011-03-28T16:43:00.002-04:00

Spring is finally here and our paddling season is off to an exciting fast paced start. We are heartened by the amount of interest our paddling community has been showing in our kayaking programs and events.

I wanted to take this opportunity to let everyone know of a few new happenings here at Sea Kayak Carolina. First, we are excited to have added Astral Buoyancy Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) to our PFD stock. Please stop by the shop to see some of their revolutionary new designs.

We have also added the kayak NAV-AID, a device developed by Dr. Charles Sutherland, which allows mariners in small open boats to easily accurately determine course bearings from charts in spite of weather and sea conditions. It even includes an instruction booklet on how to use it.

Finally, we have just started a new demo program for our high end Werner paddles. If you are thinking about upgrading your paddle please consider coming by and signing out one or two of our Werner paddles. There is no obligation to buy; we just want you to see the value of using a lightweight performance paddle for yourself.

Happy paddling and I hope to see you on the water soon.

-- William

What is the big “O”?

2011-01-12T12:48:00.003-05:00

Lots of folks have asked what the big “O” means on the Maelstrom kayaks. Mary Ross has decided to get started on her big (4-0) birthday early (it’s not until September 2011!) with the help of her Vital! But don’t tell her I gave away a Southern lady’s age, or I’ll be Yankee mince-meat!

Winter Paddling

2011-01-09T11:52:00.020-05:00

This time of year most people put their kayaks up for the winter and start waiting and hoping for warmer weather. For me it's one of my favorite times to paddle. There is very little boat traffic, the water is clear and its invigorating to paddle on a cold crisp day. My girlfriend Debbie and I went out just a couple of days ago and saw dolphins, scores of birds and nobody else except for one lone crab boat making its rounds. What a terrific day!

This doesn't mean you should be unprepared, however, with the water temperature hovering between 45 and 48 degrees, and the air temperature in the 40 to 50 degree range, it can be dangerous — even life threatening. Check out this cold water effects chart for more information.

Please make sure you dress appropriately with synthetic clothing. I use a three-layer approach with a tight fitting breathable base layer, a mid-weight insulating layer and a breathable weatherproof outer shell.

So don't let the cold weather stop your fun: dress correctly, take a warm drink, and extra clothes, then get out there and enjoy this awesome time of the year. See you on the water soon

—William

Day 3 — Morning Update

2010-11-21T10:04:00.001-05:00

In the morning light our paddlers decided that your CAN go home again. They will be paddling back to the Folly landing, delaying just enough for the outgoing tide in the Stono inlet to let up.

A MeetUp paddle has been scheduled for those who might like to meet them near Bird Key and escort them home.

I'll be there!

-Steve

Day 2 — Part 2: Groundhog Day?

2010-11-20T16:58:00.000-05:00

It’s Not the Destination…It’s the Journey.

Back to where they once belonged. If you were following our paddlers on the GPS Spot, you may have noticed an unusual...U-turn.

That double track shows our intrepid adventurers returning to their Friday night campsite (and it bears mentioning again that this is a privately arranged camping spot not generally open to the public).

A phone call from Scott explains the situation: after a fine paddle south across Edisto’s beaches — complete with some play in the surf — our group found that their intended Saturday night camping spot was 1) a long [150+ yards] portage away from the beach, and 2) a hard-packed gravel strewn campsite between two RVs. Feeling fresh, and with fond memories of their first night’s camping experience, the group took a vote (reportedly Paul Bryan lost) and decided to make the return paddle and spend another night at their first pleasantly water-side campsite.

And what will Sunday bring? Plans are a bit up in the air. Our plucky paddlers with either enjoy some Deveaux-area surf play and arrange to take out at Cherry Point… Or they will tackle the longer haul back across Kiawah and into their starting spot on the Folly River.

Which will they choose?

How will it end?

Tune in again tomorrow for the ongoing story. And be sure to drink your Ovaltine.

-Steve

Folly to Hunting Island: Day 2 — Part 1

2010-11-20T11:29:00.001-05:00

For paddlers who regularly set out on multi-day expeditions, a jaunt down the SC coast from Folly to Hunting Island might be fairly routine — but for a bunch of sea kayakers who aren’t used to packing their boats OR paddling 20 miles at a stretch... Well, let’s just say that this trip has generated a little excitement on and off the water.

Are you following our group’s progress online with Paul Shaw’s Spot GPS [no longer available] live tracking?

If you’re surprised that the Edisto Island route seems to have taken an unplanned inland path—

—rest assured that they are, in fact, just sticking to the front beach. To get a better view of things, click on the satellite view on the Spot/Google map:

From the start, day two has been planned as the shortest paddling day. William’s best guess was that folks would use some of the leisure time built into the schedule to indulge in some surf play along Edisto’s front beach.

They certainly have a great day for it weather-wise. Stay tuned for more photos and updates — if the battery in Scott’s iPhone holds up.

-Steve

Folly to Hunting Island: Day 1

2010-11-19T21:41:00.000-05:00

So. This morning, promptly at 10 a.m., five boats with six paddlers — William Seabrook, Scott Szczepaniak, Mary Ross McQuage, Joe Salmonowicz, Paul Shaw and Paul Bryan — set off from the Folly boat landing. This is day one of a three day trip which will take them some 46 nautical miles south to Hunting Island:

See the trip plan at Google maps.

Seeing the group off were friends and family — Will Hewett (who launched his own kayak and escorted them down the river,) Sue Kershaw, Susan Sanders, Steve Bleezarde, Kerri _______, Joe’s wife Kim and daughter Hanna, and Paul Bryan’s daughter.

Anyone interested can track the group’s progress thanks to the wonders of the internet, GPS, and a handy service at findmespot.com. Paul Shaw’s GPS is reporting the group’s location in real time:

Scott phoned in some notes after the group landed at their campsite about 4 p.m.: He reports that the trip down the Folly River was uneventful, but followed by the group breaking through 2-3 foot breaking waves along the sandbars as they rounded Bird Key Island. Fair winds and following seas sped the group to the sands of Beachwalker Park where they put in for a break. Mary Ross was reportedly disappointed to find that the restrooms are locked during the off-season. The winds were picking-up as they launched after snacks, again through 2-3 foot breaking waves, and “flew” down to the mouth of the North Edisto and across the inlet to set-up their "undisclosed, high-end, private campsite.

More technological marvels, Scott was able to email a few Day One photos:

William: the fearless leader.

Kayaks are bigger than backpacks.

Shiny, happy people.

Wish them a warm night! More details tomorrow.

-Steve

Folly Beach to Rockville: Birding Along the Way

2010-11-18T09:46:00.000-05:00

So, yes: It was a long day. Seven hours from put-in to take-out and six hours of paddling.

Shorter to paddle than to drive... if you measure, and don't watch the clock.

And yes: I was one of the first to start griping about aches and pains. Some folks are cut out for the long haul, and while I enjoy the sense of accomplishment from completing this long paddle, I've never been one for marathons... So, while we paddled on, I kept looking for shorter-term objectives. And the birds helped.

Mixed gatherings were common on the water, on bars, and on the beach.

From rafts of floating birds, to flyovers and sightings along the beaches and sandbars, it was a good day for birding. Highlights included Scott's first sighting of Northern Pintails among the Hooded Mergansers and Lesser Scaup, Osprey and Bald Eagles in flight, a good assortment of shorebirds, terns and gulls, and marsh favorites including the usual suspects – Great Blue Heron, Great and Snowy Egret – as well as lone Wood Stork and Northern Harrier.

With all the good birding available in the Lowcountry, it is worth remembering that getting off the beaten track can be a first step to some really great birding. Whether you're willing to take to a kayak for six hours or not is up to you. I'm glad I did: I just wish I'd packed my binoculars!

- Steve

Folly Beach to Rockville: A Rewarding Day

2010-11-11T16:07:00.004-05:00

I was part of a group of seven hardy sea kayakers who decided it would be fun to see what it would be like to paddle 18.5 nautical ocean miles in one day.

So on Tuesday Nov. 9 we launched from Folly Beach, S.C. and laid in a course southwest to Rockville, S.C.

The weather was perfect and the ocean was glassy with basically no swell at all. This was a tune-up paddle for a multi-day trip we’re planning for later this month. So the group was eager to see what kind of time we could make and how our bodies held up.

We made good time but as the miles wore on we gained a new appreciation for those expedition kayakers who consider a 20 mile day to be routine or even easy.

I don’t think any of us ever thought we couldn’t make it but our muscles and joints were definitely letting us know we aren’t as young as we like to think we are – and that we don’t do this every day.

While we were glad to see Cherry Point Boat Landing in Rockville – after six hours at sea – I think most of us were happy with our accomplishment and thinking about our next ocean voyage.

Stay tuned for more of our fall adventures…

- William

ECCKF 2010

2010-04-26T14:39:00.007-04:00

We all had a blast at the 2010 East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival on April 16, 17 and 18. It was an exhausting weekend for everyone who works at the shop, but well worth the effort and we can’t wait until next year.

We got to reconnect with old acquaintances such as Wayne Horodowich, from the University of Sea Kayaking in Mill Creek, WA.

One of the other things we got to do beside work in our compound was to test paddle boats!! Mary Ross and Matt in particular had loads of fun rolling the NDK Triton double kayak with a butterfly roll! This kayak is available at Sea Kayak Carolina for $2499.

Check out some more great pictures from the festival. Friday; Saturday; Sunday

Maelstrom Vaag and Vital Kayaks Come to Charleston

2010-04-25T17:00:00.001-04:00

Some will say “Vaag” and others will note that it is “Vaåg” — some will go with “Vital” while others stick with the official “Vitäl”. And Really, it doesn't much matter — no matter how you choose to spell or pronounce them, these Mælström Kayaks are two terrific boats that we’re excited to be adding to the Sea Kayak Carolina line-up.

The Vaag 174 is here now — 17-feet, 4-inches of performance kayak suitable for medium and larger paddlers. The smaller, 16-foot, 6-inch Vital 166 will be arriving in May. Designed by a team in Quebec, and manufactured in North America by the folks at BorealDesign, these two boats impressed all of us that had an opportunity to paddle them at the 2010 East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival.

Call now to schedule a test paddle — we’re looking forward to sharing our appreciation of these new kayaks with you!

Writer Examines Joys of Kayaking

2010-03-20T10:56:00.007-04:00

Local writer Leslee Johnson-Allen joined Sea Kayak Carolina's Introduction to Kayak class last weekend, and she's posted her impressions on the Examiner.com Charleston website.

Her observations are a pleasant reminder to those of us who may occasionally take our pastime for granted — and a fine recommendation for anyone who's thought about getting out on the water for the first time:

“As an art, a sport and a practice, sea kayaking opens up the wild world of waterways and reveals the mysteries water protects. The secrets barrier islands keep, glimpses of the swallow tailed kite, intimate encounters with dolphins: a hidden realm opens wide for those who know how to finesse a paddle and extend their bodies in such a way as to be able to sit on water.”
›› Read the rest of her article now

Dry Bags Galore

2010-02-10T14:09:00.007-05:00

Sea Kayak Carolina is carrying Sea to Summit products and currently has in-stock a great selection of Big River DrySacks and Lightweight DrySacks, ranging in size from 1 to 35 Liters.

The Big River DrySack is a heavy duty expedition capable bag that will withstand any abuse you might give it. The Lightweight DrySack is slightly lighter duty and somewhat more economical. However, don’t think they’re cheap though as they’re still plenty tough and a great value for your money.

I have been using a Big River 20 Liter bag for my hypothermia kit since September and it has been bombproof.

Remember due to a kayak’s shape it is always better to have several small dry bags than one big one. So come by today and get geared up for the spring season. It will get warm soon – I promise!!

Drysuits are the best!!

2010-02-01T16:22:00.008-05:00

Matt Faust and I decided to head out on the water Sunday against the better advice of everyone. It was sunny but in the low 40s with at least a wind chill of 32 degrees. This might be a beautiful kayaking day in Maine but no one kayaks in this weather in Charleston, South Carolina.

However, Matt and I had just received our new Immersion Research Double D drysuits and were eager to operationally check them out.

It turned out to be a beautiful day and we had the Folly River to ourselves except for the dolphin strand feeding and our feathered friends enjoying the day. Please understand if we had not been wearing the drysuits with the water temp being in the upper 40s and the air temp what it was it would have been foolish to go.

Some thoughts on the drysuits: I have last year’s model and it is awesome without a doubt, however, Matt has the new 2010 model. For me the biggest improvement this year is the zipper system. It opens wider which makes it easier to get into and out of the suit plus it’s easier to open and close. They’ve also gone back to reinforced fabric booties which seemed work as advertized.

If you would like more information on the drysuits visit Immerion Research.

Sea Kayak Carolina will be happy to take your order for your very own drysuit today.

Laguna paddles have arrived!

2010-01-30T13:55:00.009-05:00

Werner’s newest paddle blends heritage and advanced design at a new low price — and is now in stock at Sea Kayak Carolina. The Laguna features fiberglass reinforced nylon blades which offer light swing weight and great durability.

Visit Werner's website for more information on these paddles or drop by the shop to see them in person.

This awesome entry-level paddle is available now at an unbeatable price of $109.

Sea Kayak Carolina located in Charleston, South Carolina also stocks a huge selection of other Werner paddles.

Co-starring on Army Wives!

2010-01-14T16:48:00.003-05:00

P&H and Venture Kayaks will be co-starring in an upcoming episode of Army Wives, to be shot tomorrow at an undisclosed beach location somewhere in coastal South Carolina! Kayaks provided by Sea Kayak Carolina.

New East Coast Canoe and Kayak festival website

2010-01-08T13:10:00.005-05:00

I wanted to let everyone know about a new website, The East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival MeetUp Group, to promote the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission's East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival. The main event runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday April 16, 17, and 18, 2010.

Don't miss Sea Kayak Carolina's un-Official Festival Guide, and to register or for more information, check out the official Festival page.

Perhaps you can make some new kayaking friends on-line prior to the Festival. Perhaps connect with Charleston area paddlers for some fabulous local paddling before or after the Festival.

Kayak Anna visited the shop!

2009-12-20T10:09:00.003-05:00

After a busy morning yesterday with Christmas kayakers, the afternoon became quiet at the shop. Imagine my surprise when the door burst open, and there she was! Dr. Lina Lukashevich, in the flesh, walking into Sea Kayak Carolina!

"Who is Dr. Lina Lukashevich?" -- you may wonder. She is the author of the recent book Kayak Anna and the Palindrome Creek. It is "...a splashing eco-adventure for readers ages 9 - 13. Anna fights pollution in her neighborhood creek. Along the way she encounters bullies, leeches and alarmingly ravenous trolls!

Lina came to visit from her home town of Brookfield, Illinois! She was in Columbia with her Mom to visit her aunt. They came to tour Charleston and had a chance to drop off some copies of Kayak Anna. They are available here at the shop, or call (843) 225-7969 for a copy to be delivered to your door, or the door of a young reader/kayaker of your choosing. Lina is donating all of her profits to Living Water International, which helps provide clean, safe drinking water to children around the world. Copies of Kayak Anna are $12.99.

Lina may be back to Charleston in April for the East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival - as part of Sea Kayak Carolina's compound. Keep your fingers crossed!

"And what is a palindrome?" you may wonder. A word spelled that is spelled the same way forwards and backwards. The first to email me an example of a palindrome will win a free SKC Nalgene water bottle with their purchase of Kayak Anna!

Scott@SeaKayakCarolina.com

Great party - great plans for next year...

2009-12-13T13:25:00.003-05:00

We had a blast at the shop party last night. Check here for some additional photos.

We're already gearing up for a big year in 2010:

February 27 & 28, 2010 - ACA Advanced Open Water (L5) ICE led by Dale Williams.

Starting April 9 - ACA IDW / ICE led by Tom Nickels. This is a modular event from L1 - L4.

April 16, 17, 18 - East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival! Sea Kayak Carolina is the Gold Sponsor of this event.

April 19 & 20 - BCU 3 Star Sea Assessment led by Coach Tom Nickels.

And lots of rolling, navigation and other classes and events already on the calendar for 2010. Hope to see you at the shop or on the water soon!

Scott

2009-12-10T10:52:00.003-05:00

Thanks to our recent 5 candidates, who are all now American Canoe Association Coastal Kayak Instructors. Sea Kayak Carolina hosted a 6-day, American Canoe Association Instructor Development Workshop and Certification Exam here in Charleston, South Carolina. The workshop was led by Tom Nickels.

Days 1 and 2 were on a nearby private pond, days 3 & 4 on the Folly River and Charleston Harbor, and Days 5 & 6 on the Atlantic Ocean in the vicinity of the Morris Island Lighthouse. Check here for more pictures.

It's not too early to sign up for a similar ACA CK IDW/ICE here in April 2010, again featuring Tom Nickels as the lead Instructor Trainer.

I’m a frayed knot!

2009-10-28T09:45:00.007-04:00

Bow & Stern Toggles... lifesavers or killers?

Well, even I admit that the lead sentence is a bit dramatic. But we have had a few incidents related to toggles that it seemed timely for a post.

Bow and stern toggles on sea kayaks can help us manage our boats. However, they should not be used to carry the boats... read on:

Deb and a student were test paddling my personal (and at the time, brand new) P&H Capella 167. They were walking the boat across the parking lot, a knot holding the toggle came undone, and crash went the boat, taking a chunk of fiberglass out of the keel. But it gets worse...

I previously reported that Sue broke her wrist in a freak kayak accident. She was standing on the bumper of her SueBaru, pulling a fiberglass boat by the stern toggle to reposition it in the cradles. The line holding the toggle in place was frayed, it broke un-expectantly, and Sue experienced a FWOSH! (Fall with an outstretched hand.) Sue, by the way, is just recovering from surgery and could use some good wishes... send them to sue@seakayakcarolina.com.

We all have our terrible toggle stories to tell. The moral of the story is to carry sea kayaks with a hand cradling the bow or stern, and inspect the toggles periodically to ensure that the lines are not showing signs of wear. One more related story...

The string went into the bar, hopped up on a barstool, and asked the bartender for a beer. The bartender shouted “Get out -- we don’t serve strings in here!” The string went into the alley next to the bar, and just went nuts: Thrashing against the wall, the ground, wiggling around in a crazed manner. Can you picture it? Then the string went back into the bar, hopped up on the very same stool, and asked for a beer. The bartender shouted “Didn’t I just tell you we don't serve strings in here?!” To which the string replied — “I’m a frayed knot.”

Surfing the Triangle!

2009-10-14T15:54:00.011-04:00

I had a blast Monday playing in the "triangle" between Tybee Island and Little Tybee Island, GA. Scott and I had driven down to see off our Paddle Georgia scout team. While there we hooked up with sea kayaking legends Dale Williams and Nigel Law and had an awesome time playing in four foot breakers while battling a 15 knot east wind. It was great paddling with two world class sea kayakers and improving my personal skills as I continue my paddling journey.

-- William

Tom's Back? Gnarly!

2009-09-11T11:16:00.002-04:00

How many of you remember Tom Nickels? When I arrived in Charleston in the Fall of 2001, the Charleston Audubon was the first group I got involved with on a trip out to Capers Island. Being on the water was great, and got me thinking...

In the Spring of '02 Melissa and I took the three day Kayaking Fundamentals class being offered at the James Island park, and Tom was our instructor. I mentioned I did freelance web work, he mentioned he was running a kayak tour and instruction business from his home on Folly Beach, and so it began. Through Tom I met Scott, and because of Tom's web site (be sure to look at his new one too) I got the nod to come on board when SKC was getting started.

That Fundamentals Class marked the second time I ever sat in a kayak, and for six years it would be the only formal paddling training I'd had. I really did enjoy that class, but somehow I hadn't learned the training lesson -- classes would improve not only my paddling, but my enjoyment of paddling. It's 2009. Lesson learned.

Lately I've had the pleasure of frequent paddles with great and generous paddling instructors. And I've been able to attend two tree-day Instructor Development Workshops. I'm a better kayaker than I was the last time I went out with Tom, and I am a much, much more enthusiastic paddler.

Currently my enthusiasm is focused on Tom's trip back to the Charleston area and his collaboration with our shop, teaching a modular ACA (Levels 1-4) IDW/ICE in December (and again in April, 2010), two days of open water "Gnarling with Nickels," and a multi-day BCU training paddle on the Georgia Coast. I'm not sure how much I'll get to be on the water, but it will be good to have him around. A bunch of paddlers are going to have some great times while he's here. Will you be one of them?

Cheers!

My First Roll Student

2009-08-10T16:18:00.007-04:00

A routine tour Saturday turned into one of those milestone days in my growth as a kayaking instructor — I was the guide for a shop trip to Sandy Point on Kiawah Island. This is a favorite of mine; it has some distance, and we get to cross the Stono Inlet which can make for some fun kayaking on a windy day.

I had a great group, including new Sea Kayak Carolina students Keith and Samantha. In a class the previous weekend, Scott had told Samantha that he believed she was a natural rolling candidate. She really was enthusiastic to learn and asked if I could help her.

I'm an ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayaking Instructor but I don't have a rolling endorsement in my instructor profile yet, so I agreed to give her some "unofficial" pointers on the beach during our lunch break. She was a natural and absorbed my instruction like a sponge — and remarkably I had my first solo rolling instructional success just 35 minutes later.

It's a great feeling to see that look on someone's face when they figure how effortless a complex maneuver like rolling a kayak can be when executed correctly.

Samantha is a natural roller and will probably soon be performing better rolls than I can, but that's alright because I can still say I taught her how to roll.

- William

Waterspout on the Cooper

2009-06-25T12:09:00.003-04:00

For Charleston area folks who like to get out on the water, Waterspouts are more than just a technical note... On June 6th a very real waterspout formed over the Cooper River and wound its way into Charleston Harbor. You may have seen the photos which have been circulating via email — but if you've not seen them yet, here they are:

While the spout received some media coverage, we think it is worth taking an extra moment to appreciate just what sort of conditions can sneak up on us during our frequent summer thunderstorms. So be sure to keep one eye on the weather, check the radar before you head out, and paddle safe!

First Sign of Spring

2009-03-25T17:39:00.004-04:00

Is it the earliest azalea blossoms? Or the birds signing? Or the local paddlers heading out without their dry suits? Maybe. But for this blog post that's not what I'm talking about.

The sign I want you all to appreciate is the new shop sign we installed today. Gone is the heritage kayak and the vinyl banner -- replaced with a bright, crisp, new Sea Kayak Carolina sign:

And while we all like the new sign outside the store very much, it gives only a hint of the changes that are taking place inside.

Inside is where the action is. If you haven't been in to see us lately, it's worth a visit: We're saying goodbye to much of our old inventory (the March Madness sale continues,) and we've been stocking-up with new gear and a whole selection of new clothing. Spring and summer paddling will be more comfortable than ever with innovative shorts and tops from Reed and Immersion Research and Kokatat. And more is on the way.

Stay tuned for more product news and reviews.

Happy Paddling,
-Steve

As the Kayak Rolls?

2009-03-16T08:37:00.011-04:00

Like sands thru the hourglass, these are the kayaks of our lives...

My old Explorer went off to Georgia with a nice kayaker named Christopher.

Sue's "old" Impex Force Cat 3 returned from a trip to Canada. The boat had some repairs to battle wounds that Sue had inflicted, and a keel strip and turtle were added.

Don't let her pretty looks fool you; the kayak is a working boat anxious to get banged around in the ocean, performing rescues, and generally doing what a sea kayak is built to do. Sue, too!

Hello from Key Largo!

2009-02-19T19:29:00.006-05:00

Here we are again! William and Jane are ACA Instructor Candidates, and Sue and I are helping teach the Level 1 - Level 3 IDW/ICE at Florida Bay Outfitters in Key Largo. We left James Island yesterday at 0530, stopped to get gas (and pee) twice, and pulled in to our rental house on Blackwater Sound at 3:45 p.m. We checked out the canal in our backyard, and were happy to see a momma and baby manatee! Momma gave each of us turns scratching her head!

The photo above was taken at the start of our adventure today. We launched mid-morning at Florida Bay Outfitters on Blackwater Sound, paddled to a sandy mangrove beach 3 miles away, and had a lunch break. We met Louie, a nice man from Miami, and did some great rescue practice. Click here for additional photos - viewer discretion advised - contains partial nudity.

We've got a busy day tomorrow - first day of the course. I'll try to take some pictures and keep the blog up to date. We're quite excited about the Post & Courier article William coordinated. We're looking forward to warm Springtime paddling with all of our Charleston friends!

Scott Szczepaniak, pictured at left, was recently disgraced and lost his Weightlifting Hall of Fame membership due to steroid use over 6 years ago.

Knot Class...

2009-02-06T11:41:00.005-05:00

Charton DuRant had us tongue tied...

Click here for more pictures of the knot class.

SOF Kayaks

2009-02-01T17:42:00.026-05:00

Recently I joined the Flatwater Paddlers, a community of kayakers in North Carolina, to learn the skills of building a skin on frame (SOF) kayak and to carve a Greenland paddle.

Mimi, the organizer for the class, convinced Brian Schultz of Cape Falcon kayaks, to make the journey to the East and teach not one, but two classes. Mimi met Brian last October at the Delmarva Gathering, were he taught a class on building SOF kayaks.

I was in Class II, and what a grand group of folks we were! We traveled through Raleigh rush-hour traffic and 4 inches of snow to arrive by 8:00 AM each morning. We worked as a team, pitching in to help each other through the long days. They often gave me a literal helping hand with aspects of the building process I couldn't manage due to my lingering hand injury. I couldn't have done it without them.

Camille, Mimi, and Lee built a variation of the F-1 SOF that Brian has designed: it has enough room to stow gear for overnight camping trips:

Ty built a SOF racing kayak. We couldn't decide on "Ty-ger"or "Ty-ak" for the name of this kayak:

Steve built a scaled up replica of a West Greenland kayak:

And I built a replica of the 1931 Disco Bay West Greenland kayak. And all in 8 days!

We were under the guidance and instruction of Brian Schulz, who earned the name "Saint Brian" during our class. Check out his website (CapeFalconKayak.com) to find a page he devoted to our class and to learn more about this unique individual.

And visit the Flatwater Paddlers website) to learn more about this NC kayaking community.

May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.

-Jane

It's All Relative...

2009-01-26T17:17:00.007-05:00

I've been a bit down lately, 'cause it's cold and gray more often than not in the past few weeks. However, we did have a nice time on the Stono River in the rain the other day. And the weekend is forecast to warm up... a good Charleston Sea Kayaking Meetup Pod is scheduled to head out to Deveaux Bank on Sunday.

Ask me about how I started sea kayaking sometime... To make a long story shorter I will tell you now that it was in the Spring of 1991, and it started at Billington Sea Watercraft, in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Doug Gray, the owner of Billington Sea Watercraft, just sent me some photos of the lake where I first sat in a sea kayak...

Yikes! Spring will be here sooner in Charleston, South Carolina than Plymouth, Massachusetts...

Scott Szczepaniak is the managing owner of Sea Kayak Carolina and a former poster child for Seasonal Affective Disorder. Contact him at Scott@SeaKayakCarolina.com with your story of how you first got started kayaking... he'll post it on the blog.

Navigation Rules for Kayakers

2009-01-25T15:40:00.007-05:00

By Scott Szczepaniak

At the last Lowcountry Paddlers meeting, there was some discussion about kayaks and the Rules of the Road. There was some discussion over a recent Sea Kayaker magazine about the same subject. The following is my perspective on the subject…

The “Navigation Rules” are published by the United States Coast Guard. Rule 18 is entitled “Responsibilities Between Vessels.” This rule is often referred to the “pecking order.” Power driven vessels shall give way to sailing vessels, sailing vessels shall keep out of the way of a vessel engaged in fishing (not hook and line recreational fishing but towing a net such as a South Carolina shrimp boat), etc.

There is no mention of kayaks, canoes, vessels under oars in Rule 18.

Rule 25 is entitled “Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels under Oars.” This is the closest that the Navigation Rules come to addressing kayaks. The Coast Guard Navigation Center has posted on-line a FAQ dealing with the issue:

Where do Kayaks and Canoes fit into the Navigation Rules? Neither the International nor Inland Navigation Rules address "kayaks" or "canoes," per se, except in regard to "vessels under oars" in Rule 25 regarding lights. One could infer that a "vessel under oars" should be treated as a "sailing vessel" since it is permitted to display the same lights as one, but, ultimately the issue of whom "gives way" would fall to what would be "required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the case" (Rule 2).”

The experienced kayaker often interprets Rule 2 as the “Big and Ugly Rule” also known as the “Rule of Gross Tonnage.” These unofficial, but eminently sensible rules mean that if it is bigger or uglier than you and your kayak, stay out of the way!

Some additional practical navigation rules for kayakers:

Avoid paddling in marked navigational channels.

When crossing channels, cross as a group, at right angles to the channel to minimize your time in the channel. Look both ways before crossing.

When navigating in windy tidal creeks, get quickly to one side or the other if you hear a boat engine. Better yet, try to keep to on side or the other at all times.

If you capsize in the path of a container ship in Charleston Harbor, it is proper nautical etiquette to pray. Especially when the ship sounds the danger signal – 5 or more short blasts on the horn.

I often ask the question during discussions of kayakers rights of way – “Do you want your tombstone to read: ‘But I had the right of way!’”

Scott is a former Coast Guardsman and commercial boat captain. He is the managing owner of Sea Kayak Carolina and an American Canoe Association Open Water Coastal Kayak Instructor. He considers himself an expert in Navigational Rules; what do you think? Email him at Scott@SeaKayakCarolina.com.

Stono River trip today!

2009-01-24T18:23:00.001-05:00

Too tired to post anything but photo link... but stay tuned for details on the Charleston Sea Kayaking Meetup Group trip on the Stono River from James Island / Battery Landing to Kiawah Island / Sandy Point. Click here for photo link.

http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=10r6auxz.2hidl9lv&x=0&y=-axi51q&localeid=en_US

Snow Kayaking in Charleston, S.C.!!

2009-01-20T17:13:00.003-05:00

Kayaking in the snow is unusual; kayaking in the snow in Charleston, S.C. may well be historic. The shop is closed on Tuesday’s during the winter so while it was cold outside I decided to go for a paddle. There was a possibility of snow in the forecast but the sun was trying to come out and I didn’t really expect to see any frozen precipitation. So I set out for a solo paddle because no one else was stupid enough to join me in the balmy 39 degree air.

Some people may not consider paddling alone in cold weather very smart but it’s a lot about preparation. I wore a micro-base layer, a wet suit over that, form fitting fleece and finally a semi-dry top and pants. A dry suit would have been best but still I felt confident in this gears ability to protect me. On top of that I didn’t paddle in water that would test my abilities; I have a fairly reliable role and advanced self-rescue training. Finally I had dry clothes with me in a watertight hatch.

Paddling on days like this when it’s just me, my boat, the water and the elements makes me feel close to our kayaking forefathers. I ran into a pod of dolphins that were playing (probably trying to stay warm) and they circled diving in and out of the water while making eye contact with me. They were probably trying to figure what I was doing out there.

Finally it was time to return home and amazingly snow flurries began about a mile from my take-out point. So realizing this was maybe my only chance to paddle in the snow here I told myself if it was still snowing when I got to the take-out I was going to roll my boat in the snow.

As fate would have it the snow continued and I had to decide if I was going to go upside down in 49 degree water. I decided it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. So I pulled on my rolling beanie, positioned my boat so if I missed I wouldn’t be but a couple of feet from the bank and went for it. It was like sticking my head in a bucket of ice but I made it and now I can say I’ve rolled my kayak in the snow in Charleston. I just wish I had a picture of it!!

All and all it was an amazing day and I reminds me of why I paddle. See you on the water soon.

William

Famous author caught by paparazzi!

2009-01-20T10:13:00.005-05:00

Best-selling local Author Ralph Earhart caught by the paparazzi at a Daniel Island hotspot! Ralph is the author of Kayak Charleston, the definitive guide to kayak trips in the Charleston area. And what is he wearing? A Sea Kayak Carolina t-shirt!

Ralph Earhart, author of best selling book Kayak Charleston, with an unidentified starlet at a Daniel Island hotspot. Trendsetting Ralph is sporting a Sea Kayak Carolina Turtle t-shirt!

On-line Charleston Sea Kayakers social networking...

2009-01-19T11:36:00.002-05:00

Good day! Lot's of opportunities for Charleston Kayakers to connect on-line. (I think this Internet thing might stick around; perhaps it is not just a fad.)

Charleston Sea Kayaking Meetup Group has been active even in the cooler Winter months. Check them out here:

http://www.meetup.com/The-Charleston-Sea-Kayaking-Meetup-Group/

Facebook users - check out the new Charleston Sea Kayakers Group.

Another community of Charleston Paddlers can be found at www.LowcountryPaddlers.net.

Finally, check out the goings on at www.SeaKayakCarolina.com.

But I'd rather see YOU on the water, or at the shop! Scott

2009-01-16T09:00:00.008-05:00

Yikes, it's cold out there! I'm just back from Folly Beach - just looking at the ocean from the heated car made me shiver. Good news is that it will be warming up next weekend for some good paddling...

Boys of Summer? Nope, the men of Sea Kayak Carolina! William, Steve and Scott buzzed some summer cuts in hopes of getting a jump on Spring! (Get it, jump on Spring?) Our motto? Hair care, or more time for kayaking!

Stop in this weekend for a free cup of coffee, watch a kayak video, and daydream about next weekend's kayak adventure. Sea Kayak Carolina is located on James Island, between downtown Charleston and Folly Beach in the great state of South Carolina.

Sea Kayak Carolina, a Community of Kayakers, a Place for Paddlers! Sea Kayak Carolina is the proud Gold Sponsor of the East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival!

Aaaahhh, ooowhoo, Werewolves of London!

2009-01-10T18:51:00.020-05:00

Werewolf? There wolf! (Alright, if I haven't scared you off already, please read on for information on today's Charleston Sea Kayaking Meetup Group trip, and a down and dirty lesson on the moon's impact on our tides.)

It's hard for me to see a full moon without thinking of the late, great Warren Zee Von. It was a full moon at perigee leaving the shop today on James Island headed over the Connector to West Ashley.

The Charleston Sea Kayaking Meetup Group left the shop this morning under the direction of William. About 20 paddlers rode the last of the ebb (outgoing) tide toward Bird Key with a break on the sandy beach on the river just short of the Bird Key/Folly Inlet. A reported great time was had by all; complete with dolphin strand feeding and a spectacular capsize and an equally impressive rescue by Lynn. Click here for a photo link of the trip.

The low tide today was 0.6 feet below the mean (average) low tide. This was due to two lunar factors today. The moon was full - in-line with the sun and earth. So the sun and moon were working together to exert a maximum gravitational pull. A spring tide, which happens twice every month at the times of the new moon and the full moon. But today... a perigean tide. The perigiean tide happens at the time of a new or full moon when the moon is closest to earth in its elliptical orbit. What will you do tonight in recognition of the full moon at perigee?

Sea Kayak Carolina is proud to sponsor the Charleston Sea Kayaking Meetup Group. Click here for more details about the group and to join.

Sea Kayak Carolina is a Community of Kayakers, a Place for Paddlers, in Charleston, South Carolina.

Surprise visit from a distinguished kayaker...

2009-01-08T12:37:00.007-05:00

Tom Nickels graced us with his first visit to Sea Kayak Carolina this week. I had the great pleasure to paddle with Tom, Charlton DuRant, and William Seabrook from the Folly River landing, out around Bird Key into the ocean, and back into the Folly River. It was a beautiful way to start the week! It was a paddle I had often done with Tom, and words cannot express how happy I was to be on the ocean with him, on our old stompin' grounds.

Tom is an American Canoe Association Open Water Instructor Trainer, and a British Canoe Union Sea Assessor, Coach Level 3 A-1. He trained with Nigel Dennis at the Centre in Anglessey, Wales a few years back.

Tom currently is the Sea Kayak Director at Potomac Paddlesports in Rockville, Maryland, just outside of Washington, DC. There is some talk about the new administration making Tom the national sea kayak czar, but for now Tom is happy at Potomac Paddlesports and as an occasional traveling kayak instructor.

The gang at Sea Kayak Carolina looks forward to collaborative efforts with Potomac Paddlesports and our good friend Tom Nickels. Contact Tom at bcucoach@comcast.net to say hello.

A New Year

2009-01-04T10:10:00.011-05:00

Happy New Year! I have a few resolutions for 2009:
#1 - blog more often!
#2 - never paddle without a digital camera!

I have a lot of reflections on 2008: My Father's death; opening Sea Kayak Carolina; hernia surgery and recovery; some spectacular local kayak adventures; a fantastic trip to Key Largo; lots of new friends; and the joy and love from the people around me.

What's in store for 2009? So much, I'm almost overwhelmed! A few upcoming highlights: I'm assisting Karen Knight with an American Canoe Association (ACA) Instructor Development Workshop/Instructor Certification Exam (IDW/ICE) in February at Florida Bay Outfitters in Key Largo. Sue will be going to help, and some other folks from Sea Kayak Carolina will be attending as candidates.

In April we will hold another IDW/ICE here in Charleston - with Dale Williams. Then, later in April... Sea Kayak Carolina is the Gold Sponsor of the 2009 East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival - held just down the road from the shop at the James Island County Park. Charleston becomes the center of the kayak universe every April - Sea Kayak Carolina is excited to be part of it!

Well, that's all for now. We hope to see you at the shop, better yet, in a kayak on the waters in and around Charleston, South Carolina! ~Scott

Scott Szczepaniak (pictured desperately trying to overcome his natural shyness) is the managing owner of Sea Kayak Carolina. The shop is located at 1731 Signal Point Road, Charleston, South Carolina (on James Island). The number at the shop is (843) 225-7969, web site www.seakayakcarolina.com. Sea Kayak Carolina is a full service kayak shop, offering kayak tours, kayak classes and retail sales for the Charleston kayaking community. Sea Kayak Carolina, a Place for Paddlers in Charleston!

First Ocean Paddle

2008-12-19T19:46:00.003-05:00

Today was one of those landmark days in my kayaking journey as I left the relative safety of the protected waterways and paddled out into the Atlantic Ocean. I will say, first off, I would have never attempted this without Scott and Mary Ross at my side, but it was still a day that opened exciting new paddling horizons.

I will always love paddling the quieter waterways of this awesome area, with their unique wildlife and natural beauty. However, I found that when you leave the safety of land and paddle straight out into the Atlantic on purpose it is a surreal experience like no other.

The waves were not huge today but they were challenging to me. I was able to practice paddling through breaking surf, bracing, and even a little surfing. I accomplished my first true combat roll after a wave knocked me over. I did have to swim once, when I missed my roll, but my winter paddling gear protected me while Scott helped with a rescue.

We finished the day with an ocean paddle back up the beach to our launch site. It’s hard for me to describe the feeling of being one-half mile offshore or so, in a sea kayak, but suffice to say it was humbling and awe inspiring at the same time. I truly felt at one with my boat as on no other paddle I have done.

While this is not an activity I would recommend for beginners, once your paddling skills develop -- to where you are comfortable bracing and have some knowledge of advanced rescue and paddling techniques -- it is some of the most fun you can have in a kayak. On top of that you will gain personal confidence in your abilities and an appreciation for the oceans natural beauty and raw power.

I’ll sign-off with thoughts of my next ocean paddle and I hope you can join me.

William

Holiday Howdy

2008-12-17T12:27:00.003-05:00

Howdy, Happy Paddlers! So much news, so little time to write about it! First of all, an overdue thank you to our students, customers and supporters as we approach our first year in business. We appreciate your enthusiasm as we share our love for kayaking with paddlers in, around and visiting Charleston, South Carolina.

We have been proud of our association with the Lowcountry Paddlers. President Todd Beach, Vice President Jim Miller, Secretary Leslie Maple, and Treasurer Michael Condon give freely of their valuable time and energy to share their love of the sport. Thanks to Todd and his gang for all they do for the paddlers of Charleston. Check out the Lowcountry Paddlers at http://lowcountrypaddlers.net/.

Sea Kayak Carolina is also pleased to be the sponsors of the Charleston Sea Kayakers Meetup Group. Check out this informal association of Charleston kayakers at the Charleston Sea Kayakers Meetup Group website.

We are very excited to be the Gold Sponsors of the 2009 East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival April 17, 18, 19, 2009. Sea Kayak Carolina will help bring you the latest news related to this world class kayak event in Charleston at the James Island County Park - right up the road from our shop!

On behalf of Deb, Sue and the rest of the gang at Sea Kayak Carolina,

Happy Hanuka, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Scott

Paddler to Be

2008-12-04T10:02:00.003-05:00

Welcome the newest kayaker! Our friends Kimberly and Matthew had their second child yesterday. Meet Benjamin Edward Faust. He arrived at 8 pounds, 11 ounces! Mom, Benjamin, Matt and Benjamin's big brother Jonah all are well.

Shop Notes from Scott

2008-12-03T09:06:00.004-05:00

Lots of stuff happening at Sea Kayak Carolina during our "slow" time of the year! We had a great day after the Turkey paddle. I'm looking forward to seeing the trip report on-line in our "Kayak in Charleston On-Line Guide" -- stay tuned. One nice bit of news is that Amy Sloane (pictured in her new P&H Capella) will be working around the shop and helping on trips. Amy is an enthusiastic new paddler with an engaging, effervescent personality. Hopefully you will have a chance to say hello to her soon. That's all for now -- I'll try to get some of my contributions to the Sea Kayak Carolina blog caught up soon. -Scott

Moooooovie Night

2008-11-07T10:02:00.003-05:00

We had a great turnout at our first of many movie nights at the shop yesterday. Susan and Susan and Todd and Todd, Sandie, Amy, Dan, Tom, Diana (who brought cheesecake that tasted like an ice cream sundae!), William, Deb and me.

This is the Sea 4 is a spectacular DVD. Incredible scenery and inspiring kayaking. Rock hopping on the Baja peninsula, white water seakayaking on the Ottawa River, balancing tricks in the freezing water of Norway. One of the coolest parts was watching Dubside rolling his folding kayak in rough tide-race waters. That guy is incredible. And I learned about some spectacular kayaking spots on Lake Superior amongst the Apostle Islands.

We were all amazed, terrified, inspired, energized, and just plain entertained by Justine and her film-making.

And it was such fun to view it all with fellow kayakers!

Thanks everyone for coming and experiencing this with me!

Sue

Howdy from Key Largo!

2008-11-06T21:03:00.005-05:00

You know how to whistle, don't you? Just pucker up your lips and blow.

After a long drive from Charleston, with a stop at the Miami Airport to pick up Karen Knight, I've arrived in Key Largo. We start our ACA IDW/ICE (up to level 3) here at Florida Bay Outfitters tomorrow.

Today I reviewed strokes and teaching strategies with Karen. My new friend Dallas, pictured here, and I paddled from Garden Cove to the wrecked barge, thru the "Meadow" between Rattlesnake Key and Sound Point. Then into Largo Sound, thru the Marvin D. Adams Waterway. Huge, colorful iguana on the seawall! Did I say "Hey, Buddy!" to him? Of course! Into Blackwater Sound, round Stellrecht Point, and landed at Florida Bay Outfitters in Sexton Cove. That's all for now, I've got a bit of a cold. More pictures here! -Scott

Wasn't that a mighty storm!

2008-10-25T11:54:00.006-04:00

Hello from the shop! I'm back from BCU Week at Tybee Island, Georgia. Not too battered, bruised or bloodied!

No 4 stars for this Sneech. Steve Maynard and Shawna Franklin cancelled the assessment at the beginning of the second day of the assessment. Not enough wind. We had a good day training, got good feedback, and had a ball surfing. It was a great 5 days, but I was glad to get home.

So far on this Saturday, a quiet day at the shop. We should have held a class out front today!

Some additional shots of the flood can be found by clicking here. That's all for now, hope to see you in the shop or on the water soon. -Scott

Tybee Day 2 — BCU '08

2008-10-18T18:29:00.011-04:00

Hello from Tybee on BCU Day 2! Yesterday we had some time in the classroom with Nigel Dennis leading a navigation class, and a short time on the Back River heading from Inlet Avenue to Little Tybee. Warm - almost near 80! Today we landed on the old Tybee Lighthouse for lunch.

A day with a lot of highlights - not the least of which was Nigel almost capsizing laughing at my "mucous joke." And it was great to share some laughs with, and at the expense of, my old friend Tom Nickels.

Tom taken from the top of the lighthouse:

Big day in Charleston, I understand. Deb Mitchum won a few ribbons in the Folly Surf competition, and she won a surf kayak from our friends at Savannah Canoe and Kayak in a raffle drawing! Click here if you would like to see some more photos from today.

Well, that's all for now. I'll check in when I have a chance. -Scott

BCU Week '08 at Tybee ISland

2008-10-16T18:37:00.008-04:00

BCU Week at Tybee Island, Georgia

Hello from Tybee! I arrived on Tybee Island after a 3 hour drive (or so) from Charleston. It's always great to see our old friends at Sea Kayak Georgia. I'm signed up as a student for coastal navigation on day 1 with Nigel Dennis, then 4 star sea training on days 2 and 3. I'll finish up the experience with a 4 star sea assessment on days 4 and 5. Whew! I'm a bit stressed out about leaving the shop (but it's in good hands) and the BCU experience. But I'm already running into old friends, and making new ones.

Coupla mugs above!

Pretty ladies below!

BCU, ACA, stars and levels

2008-10-16T11:07:00.005-04:00

Scott is going off to Georgia for some BCU training. BCU is the British Canoe Union, so you may be wondering why he is going to be trained by some Brits in paddling a canoe (After all, we're an American Sea KAYAK shop, right?)

When I first started paddling and looking for instruction I encountered all these various alphabet soup organizations and talk of stars and levels and it was all very confusing. Since many of you are likely new to the sport, I thought it might be helpful give a brief explanation of these organizations and what they do for us.

When you are looking for instruction in a sea kayak, you want to find someone that has accreditation and training in teaching people to kayak. That way you know you are learning safely and learning good technique. Here in the US there are two organizations that provide instructor training. The ACA (American Canoe Association) and the BCU (British Canoe Union). Don't be put off by the "canoe;" These organizations both focus on kayaking in addition to canoeing.

The ACA is a US based organization with an extensive curriculum of courses in kayaking. These courses are taught by ACA certified instructors. To become an ACA certified instructor, you must complete several days of Instructor Training, pass a multi-day Evaluation and be proficient as a paddler. The certifications come in different levels of proficiency (both as a paddler and as an instructor). To maintain certification, an instructor must continue to take updates. Scott, Deb and I all have ACA certifications. The courses we offer at the shop are based on the ACA curriculum.

The ACA has recently added a way to assess your individual proficiency in paddling. Sometimes we like to know where our skills stand, receive feedback for ongoing skills development, see how we match up to others, etc. The ACA has created a program of Level Assessments. If you want to 'earn' a Level Award, go to the ACA website to see the skills needed to earn a Level 1, 2, 3, or 4 Award, then sign up with an ACA instructor who is certified to asses your skill. At our shop, Scott is available to assess for Coastal Kayaking Levels 1–4.

So that's the ACA.

The BCU is not just for the British!
The BCU has an excellent cadre of coaches that travel around the world to raise the level of paddling skills – including here in the US. The BCU does not provide a curriculum of courses. In their system, you receive coaching from BCU certified Coaches. When you have received enough coaching and had enough practice, you can be assessed for a Star Award. A Star Award is an indication of your paddling proficiency, seamanship, and leadership (at the more advanced star levels).

Scott is off to get his 4* award. To make things more complicated, the BCU is currently changing their star requirements - Scott is going for the NEW 4*. He has his NEW 3*. Deb has an OLD 4*, Sue has an OLD 3*. Deb and I need to upgrade : )

The BCU puts aspiring coaches through a quite rigorous course of training. Coaches are rated as Level 1 - 5 Coaches. (These Levels are not to be confused with the ACA Level Assesments. Oy.)

See how simple?

Basically, if you are looking for someone to teach you kayaking skills, look for an ACA certified instructor or a BCU certified coach. If you want to have someone assess your individual paddling skills, either the ACA or the BCU will be happy to do that for you.

Good luck to Scott! He will be learning from and being assessed by some of the best sea kayakers in the world: Nigel Dennis and Steve Maynard.

Sue

Rainy Day Swap Meet

2008-10-15T11:30:00.007-04:00

The rain was an on-again, off-again sort of thing last Saturday for the first Lowcountry Paddler's Kayak & Gear Swap Meet hosted at the shop, but that didn't stop folks from swinging by, and it didn't stop us from keeping the doors open — we just moved under the awning as required! Inside the shop was a fine place to be too, with drinks and snacks, and a bunch of new stuff on the shelves, including the snazzy new Kavu Hats with the SKC turtle embroidery!

By the end of the day we'd seen some 75 folks – local paddlers and visitors attracted to the scene. Gear was swapped, from flashlights to paddle racks and boats: In fact, every boat brought to the swap meet was sold! And several demo and consignment boats from the shop found new homes as well. So lots of happy paddlers left with new gear that we hope will be used and enjoyed by the new owners.

It was a great day for mixing and milling about the shop, meeting new folks and old paddling mates. As something of a "new guy" in the wider paddling community, it was nice to realize I'd already enjoyed meeting and kayaking with quite a few of these paddlers before. Good company, snacks and music seemed to keep everyone happy – there were only a few times when there weren't at least 15 or 20 people around, catching up, story telling and comparing notes and opinions on boats and gear.

I have to admit, I also got a dog fix from our several k-9 visitors, and that's never a bad thing as far as I'm concerned.

Now I'm looking forward to the second swap...

Hooray for Hats!

2008-10-10T16:55:00.007-04:00

Sue in Blue (Navy Blue, that is!)

I'm not normally a hat guy. Kayakers need 'em, to keep the sun off their noggins. And off their faces. The brim can't be too large, or else it gets floppy in the wind. That's about it. Hats. Like other kayak clothing, synthetics are superior to cotton. Or as the Lowcountry Paddlers chanted -- "Synthetics are sexy!" "Cotton is rotton!"

But I'm excited! Our new Kavu synthetic strapcaps just arrived from our friends at Palmetto Outfitters. We're selling them for $25; and they are the quintessential kayakers cap.

We've got different colors; and smalls, mediums and larges -- for diffent sized heads.

Can you tell? I'm really excited about the Sea Kayak Carolina hats! I've even taken a picture of myself in the mirror!

Sad, really!

P&H Scorpio Low Volume

2008-10-08T10:30:00.007-04:00

As Scott said, he and I went out in the ocean yesterday (October 7) to try out some new boats. I normally paddle an Impex Force 3. The Impex is a long, skinny, fast boat that is tough to turn unless I put it up on edge (but then it carves a nice turn!). The folks at P&H think that the Scorpio LV would be to my liking.

Immediately upon sitting in the boat I discovered one challenge - When I adjusted the footpegs as close to me as possible, they were not close enough. I know my legs are short... but this is something I think P&H needs to address. Otherwise, the cockpit fit me pretty well. I would need to pad out the sides a bit, but that is all. The knee braces were comfortable and allowed for a high knee position while paddling (see Ben Lowry's forward stroke technique!).

As we paddled (sustained wind of about 15 knots with gusts up to 20 knots; confused seas with waves between 2' and 4'; pretty strong current from the incoming tide) I couldn't help but compare it to my Force 3. I also tried to compare to the Capela 161 that I have paddled some recently. The Scorpio punched through the waves with gusto. It is a fast boat. It did weathercock a bit more than my Force 3 -- just about any boat would -- but it didn't take much effort to correct my direction and stay on course.

Before getting too far into the waves and wind I needed to see if I could roll the Scorpio LV. Halfway through my roll (while hanging upside down), I realized that the cockpit fit (both side to side and the footpegs not getting close enough) caused me to fall "down" out of the seat. Hhhmmmmmm this would be a challenge... After a few attempts, I was able to roll up, but I had to really focus on my lay back (which the boat does allow for). I think once fitted properly, it would roll easily.

Onward into the clapotis! I felt very comfortable and stable in the Scorpio LV. The boat reacted predictably to the wave action and was lively in response to my strokes. I was pleased to feel safe and very sea-worthy in this plastic boat!

Overall, I like the Scorpio LV. It is fast, adequately maneuverable, and fun in the waves. It is definitely an option for medium-sized women and some smaller women (but unless the footpeg position is changed, not an option for most small women) who want a quick, ocean-worthy plastic boat.

There were lots of dolphin in the area this day. They were very active - tail slapping, circling. The dolphin must have been driving the fish to the surface because the pelicans were diving and taking advantage of the dolphins' work. I caught a couple of glimpses of a very small dolphin with its mother - the small ones are so cute! And one larger dolphin came up about 10 feet from me and gave me a really good lookover.

I hope to see you on the water soon. Paddling this time of year is quite comfortable in the cooler weather, but with the water still warm. - Sue

P&H Cetus versus...

2008-10-07T17:48:00.009-04:00

Hello, Happy Paddlers! I paddled the P&H Cetus for a few minutes at the East Coast Canoe and Kayak Festival in April 2008. On the lake at the James Island County Park. As you can imagine, I was a bit preoccupied as Sea Kayak Carolina was making its public debut that weekend. My initial reactions were "fast" and "maneuverable." That was all; I literally paddled the kayak for less than 15 minutes.

The first two Cetus arrived at the shop last week. From England, via Asheville, North Carolina, then on to Charleston, South Carolina delivered from our friend and P&H rep, Scott Sullivan. Scott and I unloaded a bunch of nice new kayaks, and put the shops new grey over white demo Cetus, and his plastic Scorpio, on my car. We went to Folly Beach for some surfing. The wind was onshore, 15 knots gusting to about 18 knots. Two foot waves, sloppy and choppy. An occasional 3 footer.

Well, I was in a pickle! Not the kayak, but an emotional dilemma. I have been paddling a NDK Explorer for a number of years, in all kinds of waters. I wanted to give the Cetus a fair shake; but all I could think of was how the boat compared to the Explorer. I had a long relationship with the Explorer, and felt a bit guilty about even paddling another boat. On the other hand, P&H has been supporting Sea Kayak Carolina tremendously; and we have been impressed with their line, especially the Capellas. I wanted to love the Cetus as part of our support for P&H. But again, I wanted to give the boat a fair evaluation.

The waves were choppy and sloppy. Scott Sullivan was having a blast in his Scorpio. At some point I decided to forget about the Cetus vs. Explorer dilemma; and enjoy being in a sea kayak on the ocean. I was, however, and bit loose in the cockpit. I need about an inch of foam on either side of my hips. This modification will be similar to how I have padded out my Explorer. So, not fitting too well in the cockpit, and being in an unfamiliar boat, my surfing was not up to par. My impressions from the day: "need to pad out the cockpit to fit me," "fast," "maneuverable."

The bow and stern compartments were bone dry after an hour of surfing, punching thru waves, and a few rolls. The fourth hatch was completely dry as well. There was a few tablespoons of water in the dayhatch. I will replace the "snap top" hatchcover with a standard hatchcover. While the snap top hatchcover is easy to put on and off, it is reported to leak a bit.

Sunday (October 5, 2008) I paddled the Cetus on Lake Moultrie, thru the locks, and in the tiderace canal. The shop led this trip as part of the Berkeley Blueways Paddlefest. 5 shop staff, 14 participants of various levels of experience. I was like a sheepdog herding sheep. I was able to race from the back of the Pod, to the front, circle it. Smiling a big smile, tongue lolling out occasionally like the aforementioned sheepdog. Fast! Maneuverable!

Today Sue Kershaw and I launched from Fort Moultrie into Charleston Harbor. Recorded wind speed was close to my approximation: 16 knots gusting to 19 knots. Winds were out of the east. This caused some whitewater over the breakwater, and some interesting clapotis on the way out to the breakwater. Sue was evaluating the P&H Scorpio LV. (Look for her review soon.) My impressions of the Cetus were the same. Fast, maneuverable and I need to pad out the sides of the seat to keep my skinny little behind from sliding side to side. Once I do that, I just may paddle the Cetus next week in Tybee. BCU Week. 4 star training with... you guessed it... Nigel Dennis! Stay tuned!

The P&H Scorpio

2008-09-30T19:09:00.004-04:00

Before this summer, I'd never paddled any kayaks from the P&H line-up, but during the past few months I've enjoyed paddling one of the shop's Capella 161s on a few trips. So, when Scott asked me to track down whatever reviews I could find on the P&H Scorpio -- their plastic boat based on their Cetus design -- I was curious to find out how this model was being received.

A few hours and a dozen Google searches later, I was convinced: The reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. From the innovative 4th hatch (forward of the cockpit and between the knees), to the well-balanced performance -- intermediate and advance paddlers have put the Scorpio thru its paces and found very little wanting.

I haven't had a chance to paddle one from the shop yet, but I'm looking forward to the opportunity. Curious what all those reviewers have to say? Don't miss our compilation page on the Scorpio, complete with all the manufacturer's specs and links to the best reviews and commentary we could track down.

Hello from Scott...

2008-08-07T14:15:00.004-04:00

Hello, friends of Sea Kayak Carolina! Thanks for all of the support and energy from the Charleston kayak community -- the Pod has be great to us as we have opened the shop.

Good news from the doc today! Seems that after some minor surgery which sidelined me for a bit; I'm on the mend. Should be back in a kayak in a couple of weeks, and fit for full duty the first week in September. I'm looking forward to riding my first wave in awhile. The only question is will I be in my old NDK Explorer, or will I try one of the new P&H Capellas? I fit real nice in the Capella 167... hopefully I can convince Deb and Sue to let me use it!

Again, thanks to the Pod for the continuing support. We are looking forward to serving the kayak community in Charleston (and beyond.) Please stop by the shop to say hello.

Scott, pictured with a friend above, is the managing owner of Sea Kayak Carolina. The shop is located at 1731 Signal Point Road, Charelson, South Carolina. The number to the shop is (843) 225-7969, web site http://www.seakayakcarolina.com/. Sea Kayak Carolina is a full service kayak shop, offering kayak tours, kayak classes and retail sales for the Charleston kayaking community. Sea Kayak Carolina, a Place for Paddlers in Charleston!

Welcome

2008-08-07T12:45:00.007-04:00

Welcome to the Blog. Since he shop opened in June, we've met some great folks; some on tours, some in classes, and many just stopping by to see what the shop is all about.

While the Sea Kayak Carolina website is a great tool for keeping people informed about what we're doing — what we're selling, and what our kayaking class and tour schedule looks like — we thought a blog would be a better, friendlier way to stay in touch with with all our fellow paddlers.

Keep an eye on new posts here for trip reports, photos and more.

And, Happy Paddling!