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TRIP CLASSIFICATIONS (Rating)

Trips are classified under the following categories: Pace/Endurance, describing the strength, endurance and fitness required to comfortably complete the trip; Skills Required, describing the paddling skills and seamanship required to safely handle the situations that could be encountered on the trip.

Special Cold Weather Classification: The Club now paddles year round. Winter, late fall and early spring bring their own challenges, not the least of which is the possibility of very cold water, ice, and fog. We do not paddle far from shore, nor in windy conditions. Paddlers should have wet and/or dry suits, carry signalling lights and a cell phone, as well as have at least one complete change of winter clothing in a dry bag in their hatch.

PACE/ENDURANCE:

A.  Not Strenuous: Daily paddling typically less than 3 hours, with distances of 10 kilometres or less.

B.  Moderately Strenuous: Daily paddling typically between 3 and 5 hours, with distances of 10 to 20 kilometres.

C.  Difficult: advanced paddling, seamanship and rescue skills. Ability to handle waves greater than one meter. Expect exposed waters, open crossings, large waves, moderate to strong winds, surf, fog, and potentially difficult landings. Sheltered resting and landing spots could be few.

SKILLS REQUIRED:

1. Novice: Requires basic paddling skills, practiced wet exits. Expect protected waters, easy landings, and shelter for resting.
2. Intermediate: Requires basic paddling skills including the ability to brace, self rescue, and participate in assisted rescues, comfortable in one meter waves, mostly protected waters, some difficult landings, and some sheltered spots for resting. Paddlers must be comfortable paddling at night time.
3. Experienced: Requires advanced paddling, seamanship and rescue skills. Ability to handle waves greater than one meter. Expect exposed waters, open crossings, large waves, moderate to strong winds, surf, fog, and potentially difficult landings. Sheltered resting and landing spots could be few.

NOTE

• The term exploratory indicates the organizer has not been on the planned route or in the area before. Therefore, trip conditions cannot be predicted from past experience.
  Trips are classified in advance. Weather conditions may make it necessary to modify these classifications on the day of the event.
• Should plans change due to weather conditions or other unforseen factors, the tour organizer will be in touch. If you change your plans, a courtesy call would be appreciated.
• Stated paddle times are start times. Please arrive 20-30 minutes early to prepare for launching at appointed time.
• Problems? Contact the Tour Director,  penpaddlers.tour@gmail.com
• It is important to confirm your participation with the tour organizer, who is responsible for all tour details, e.g., meeting place, food arrangements, car shuttle, car pool, etc.
• Each tour organizer will provide particulars, through e-mail or telephone, explaining each trip in full detail for all those who have expressed an interest in attending a specific trip.