Sea Kayak Log – Trip Report

Date: 12/22/01   Time: 0730
 

Launch Point: TCC Planetarium - Portsmouth Campus

Length/Duration of Trip: 14.4 Statute, 3.66 hours 

Float Plan: Launch TCC PortsVA campus - East 3 mil to Craney Island Fill- ARound Craney Island - Past Navy Refueling Facility - Break at Coast Guard Beach (9 mi pt).  Then into Elizabeth River, Western Branch - to Stern's Creek - Take-Out at  Stern's Creek Pier (Skip's House) 

Participants (Names): Sandra Canepa, Skip Carsten (Lead / Organizer),  Glen Farrington, Reid Hyle, Ric Rountree

Weather/Sea Conditions: 10-20 mi wind from North.  Sunny at Launch, about 38 F air, about 50F water.  2-ft swells, some whitecaps in Hampton Roads, quartering seas. 

Notable Facts:  4 Kayaks, 1 Outrigger (Pacific 24).  Wind substantial, waves, water cold.  Met at about 0720, in water by 0800.  First third, busy / chop, wind up to 20 est.  Conditions at Craney busier, reflective waves off rip rap, confused seas for about first 6 miles.  All paddlers competent, minimal backup or remedial work.  Break at beach area near Craney Island USCG station, 30 minutes. Entered Elizabeth River Western Branch, seas calmer, down to 1 foot, breeze to 5-10 mph.  Hampton Roads ship traffic minimal.  Finished in average time, No mishaps, No rescue.  

Results: Total Distance:  14.4 mi statute.  Total Time:  3 hr, 39 min paddling time, 30 min break.  Ave speed 3.9 mph statute.
 
Lessons Learned:  Need Booties.  December Bay water too cold to barefoot.  Trip well-planned, well-executed by group.  Excellent group. 

MAPS /  Sketches: See Map TCC_Home

 

 Let me know....Kayak Don Runyon

FOR SALE:  Pacer Utility Trailer, 2" Coupler, fenders, safety chains,
lights.  Built to carry two or more kayaks and one or two canoes. $600
Contact S. Canepa, 757/851-2959.