Re: [Paddlewise] Need tip for Horn Island, Mississipi

Bruno Roussennac wrote:
>I am planning to paddle to Horn Island (10 miles off-shore mississipi). I
>have limited open sea paddling experience...

While this island is about 6-7 miles off shore, it is not really an 
"open ocean" crossing.  One suggestion would be to get a copy of the 
NOAA chart for the area.  You should be able to plan a fairly direct 
route from the Pascagoula waterfront to Horn Island that keeps you in 
shallow (less than 6' deep) water almost the entire time.  You'll 
also need to investigate tidal currents.  Be sure you wear good 
sturdy shoes as the bottom is likely covered with oysters.  Also, 
with a water temperature of about 85F, there is little risk of 
hypothermia.

>and I will like to get some
>advises on what safety equipement to bring. (extra paddle, flare, radio,
>sea anchor?, ...)

Here is some info you may find useful:
trip rating scale: <http://www.nspn.org/NSPScale.html>
suggested/required gear list: <http://www.nspn.org/NSPGear.html>
skills lit: <http://www.nspn.org/NSPTechnique.html>

>I have an inflatable sea kayak (Aire sea tiger), I realize it is not as
>fast as a proper sea kayak, but I don't have the room for a proper one! I
>will like to know what is the average speed of a proper kayak in calm sea
>condition, average paddler so I can compare with mine.

Somewhere in the 2.5-4 knot range for most paddlers/boats.

Brian
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