Sea Kayaking the San Juan Islands
July 16-19, 2009
What to Bring
First and foremost, bring your upbeat and ready-to-go attitude, your stamina and a willingness to help out with packing and unpacking equipment throughout the tour.
Suggested clothing and equipment
Think small! All gear will be carried with us in the kayaks.
- Clothes for both warm and cool weather, denim and cotton are not recommended as these materials won't keep you warm if you get damp. Bring enough clothing in case some items get damp while out to sea.
- You'll want to dress in layers for rainy cool weather:
- Next to your skin, where a poly pro or Capilene synthetic layer
- Mid-layer should be wool or synthetic for warmth
- Outer layer should be synthetic rain or wind protection.
- Wear loose-fitting pants that you can roll up at the ankles.
- For sunny weather wear lightweight a long- or short-sleeved shirt and shorts and a billed hat for sun protection. Sun screen is a great idea.
Specific Gear Suggestions
- Footwear: Aqua socks, Teva-type sandals, Chacos, or Crocs for paddling and an old pair of tennie runners for camp wear.
- Two pairs of socks, 1 wool / 1 cotton
- Wool hat
- Sun hat
- Bandanna
- Wool or neoprene gloves
- Synthetic pile top or vest for warmth
- Shorts
- lightweight pants
- 1 T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection
- Polypro or capilene underwear for cooler paddling weather
- Rain gear tops and bottoms (avoid nylon, it doesn't work well)
- Change of clothes for camp wear
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Binoculuars
- Bicycle gloves to avoid blisters
- Water bottle
- Toiletries
- Flashlight
- A small hand towel (6" x 18")
- Wash cloth or wet wipes
- Pocket knife
- Any required personal medications
- Compact and lightweight sleeping bag. When rolled up it should be 11" x 17". Lined its stuff sack with a trash bag to keep it dry. Available for rent.
- Optional items like camera, bird book, journal, moist towelettes, zip-lock bags, bio-degradable soap (e.g. Sea Suds), and personal reading materials.