–photo from Maine Island Trail Association website
As the weather gets warmer (70 degrees today in midcoast Maine), it’s natural to want to venture further offshore than during those first few spring harbor forays. No denying it’s a beautiful time of year to paddle out to Maine coastal islands. The danger, well-known to experienced paddlers but often neglected by novices and by the less careful, is in being lulled into complacency by friendly summer-like breezes. The fact is that sea water temperatures off midcoast Maine have just topped 52 degrees (see GoMoos for water temps in other northeast locations). And as friendly as the air temps are, if your kayak overturns unexpectedly in 50 degree water, you face a potentially life threatening situation.
According to Minnesota Sea Grant, the expected time before exhaustion or unconsciousness in 50 – 60 degree water is 1 to 2 hours. 1 to 2 hours sounds like a lot of time, but please consider: (1) ability to effectively use fingers, hands, arms, legs, and your ability to think clearly will begin to deteriorate almost immediately after entering the water . (2) the conditions that caused your capsize will still be present after you successfully right and re-enter your boat.
We believe 100 percent that paddling the Maine ocean waters in June can be a safe activity. Here are some things you can do to make sure it is safe:
- Wear a lifejacket
- Dress for water temperatures (not for air temps.) as much as possible. This time of year, this means a wetsuit or drysuit for anything more than a harbor tour.
- Avoid paddling alone, especially when heading for more ambitious destinations.
- Know and practice a variety of solo and assisted rescues including eskimo roll, t- rescue, and more.
- Keep a attentive eye on weather forecasts, sky, wind, and sea conditions.
- Leave a float plan that details where you are going and when you intend to return.
Happy and safe paddling!