Today’s trips are part of “Raft Up”, a cross-club paddling event with SISKA (South Island Sea Kayaking Association). Two trips are being offered with the “Energized” option being the same as our club’s Trip Rating #2 – Day Paddle (intermediate). Our members are welcome and encouraged to participate and paddle with the 14 SISKA members who are coming our way. Helen Koziol is the coordinator for this event (hkoziol@shaw.ca).
Low Tide @ 8:45 AM = 4.1 ft; High Tide @ 4:07 pm = 13.8 ft; Low Tide @ 8:39 pm = 11.6 ft (floods north)
1. “Relaxed”
Destination: Comox Lake
Launch: 1 pm from Cumberland Lake Boat Ramp. Bathrooms are available!
https://goo.gl/maps/Gx1qqMKyDW3DZakm9
Parking: Free Launch & Lots of free parking but must move car away from the boat ramp area.
Description: This will be a shoreline paddle with beautiful views. Can head down the lake to the south (if it’s not windy) or go to the right past Perseverance Creek to the dam then cross back over the lake to the popular rock climbing cliffs. At the lake you can read about Ginger Goodwin’s tragic end while you stretch your legs after the paddle at the swimming beach and possibly take a dip while you decide which of the great restaurants in Cumberland you will choose for supper.
Distance: Approximately 6 nm (return)
Return: 4:30 pm (estimate)
Coordinators: Helen Koziol & Wilf Craats
NOTE: Consider spending time at the Cumberland Museum before launching – it is small but unique and well worth visiting!
2. Definitely “Energized”!!!
NEWS FLASH – THIS TRIP IS FULLY BOOKED!
Destination: Deep Bay – Denman Island – Chrome Island – Hornby Island
Launch: 10 am from Deep Bay (approximately 40 minutes) https://goo.gl/maps/rx9wkoqqCQNBUto18
Launch site is small, and the shoreline is muddy and rocky at low tide.
Parking: Limited parking – cars will likely need to be moved after unloading boats and gear.
Description: Maximum of 8 participants + 2 coordinators. MUST be familiar with rescue techniques! This destination requires participants to be highly competent paddlers. Potential for moderate SE winds around Chrome Island; the south end of Denman AND when crossing Lambert Channel. Paddle across Baynes Sound (~ 1.2nm) to Denman Island, pass close to the Chrome Island Lighthouse, go around the south tip of Denman, pass Eagle Rock then paddle across Lambert Channel to Ford Cove on Hornby Island (~ 1.2 nm). Stop for lunch at the small sandy beach near Heron Rocks. Return the same way.
If windy conditions exist, the route might be changed to “Ships Point”.
Distance: Approximately 10-12 nm (return)
Return: 4 pm (estimate)
Coordinators: Sue Bloxsome & Mary MacLean
Historical Footnote: Chrome Island lighthouse, operating since 1891, is one of the few remaining manned lighthouses along the BC coast. A shipwreck at Chrome Island in 1900 claimed 7 lives. The Piercys were the first Keepers and they raised 10 children on this rock (< 2 acres). https://www.lighthousefriends.com/light.asp?ID=1187
NOTES: The nearby Fanny Bay Inn, built in 1938, serves Baynes Sound oysters and COLD BEER!