[Paddlewise] kayaks and outrigger canoes

From: Steven A. Holtzman <sh_at_actglobal.net>
Date: Sat, 19 Aug 2000 15:48:50 -0700
  >>  A group was paddling a outrigger canoe.  They were struck by an unexpected
  >>   
  >>  wave, capsized and six men (if my memory doesn't fail me) were now in the   >>  water.  Two decided to make for shore about 100 yards away.  They both
  >>   died.
  >>  Reason:  Hypothermia???  Drowning.  Real reason:  Neither had on a PFD, 
  >>  were not dressed for the water temperature and the others stayed with the   >>  boat.  These guys were club members, owners of the boat and experienced 
  >>  paddlers, but not smart ones in my mind.  They paid a tragic price for 
  >>  their carelessness.

I too am a Southern California paddler and I've often commented on the different attitudes of the outrigger canoests vs sea kayakers. I have never seen anybody in an outrigger in anything other than shorts and a T Shirt and no PFD's in site. Yet all of the kayakers that I paddle with, usually wear a wetsuit, a PFD, and a spray skirt if it's a closed deck boat.

Steve Holtzman
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Received on Sat Aug 19 2000 - 15:52:02 PDT

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