Northern Waters Adventures


WE PROVIDE:
Guide(s)/Instructor(s) Solo & tandem kayaks Wetsuits Lifejackets Dry bags Sprayskirts & paddles	Marine-weather radio First aid & safety kit Tow & signal equipment Tents Food & cookware Rain Tarp

We find that in the paddling-outdoor environment, the greatest health concern is hypothermia. Cold water, rain, low temperatures and wind all contribute to lowering a person's temperature who is unprepared and improperly dressed. The effects can range from just having a lousy time to death in the extreme case. No matter what the weather, you can have a great time, if dressed properly. In selecting clothes for this activity, try to bring clothes made of polypro, synthetic fleece, wool or pile, which when wet still insulate and dry quickly. Cotton is okay for lounging at camp, but has zero insulating value and dries very slowly. We suggest the following layering plan, so you can easily adjust your clothing to a change in the weather.
The INNER LAYER next to your skin should be a WICKING material such as polypropylene or silk underwear. These materials do not absorb moisture, but instead wick moisture away from your skin. Therefore, you feel warm when wet. The MIDDLE LAYER is for INSULATION and could be a shirt, sweater, jacket or pants depending on the air temperature. Wool pile and fleece for example. The OUTER LAYER should be a shell for protection against the wind and rain. A windbreaker is adequate for paddling. For camp you want a GOOD rain jacket. Rain pants are helpful. Breathable materials are best, such as Gore-Tex. PONCHOS & WINDBREAKERS ARE NOT SUITABLE AS RAINGEAR.
Temperatures are 50 to 80 degrees F from late May to mid-September, however be prepared for 40 degrees F. Pack as if you were going backpacking. Pack light using as many multi-use items as possible. Sleeping bags in a stuff sack can be no more than 10" in diameter and 18" long to fit into dry bags. Luxury items may be brought if there is adequate space.

WE RECOMMEND YOU BRING:
Sleeping bag and pad (backpack size) Windbreaker Billed hat or cap Rainwear (with hood or hat) Change of clothes (4+ day trips, bring 2) Dry shoes/boots Wet shoes/sandals/aqua socks Polypropylene underwear Shirt, sweater, & jacket Extra clothes for rescue training (shirt, sweater, shorts & socks) Shorts/swimwear	Sport gloves (minimizes blisters) Water bottle/canteen Sunglasses Strap for glasses Bandanna Flashlight Sunscreen & insect repellent Chapstick Camera & extra film (dry bag can be rented) Personal toiletries (toothbrush, paste, comb, biodegradable soap, etc.) Pack towel