[Paddlewise] Group Crossing Procedures

Paddlewisers,
 
In the paddling tips section of my website, I added group crossing procedures at http://www.rollordrown.com/tips/cross.html
 
These group crossing procedures are also provided below.
 
Feedback is welcome.
 
Duane Strosaker
Southern California
 
Group Crossing Procedures

Maintaining a group effort on a crossing is difficult. Over the years I have developed these group crossing procedures in an attempt to make things easier on the trips I have organized.

Taking and Following Point

To maximize everyone's contribution on a crossing, each paddler takes rotating one-hour shifts to steer by compass and set the pace. This position is called point. It is important for the other paddlers who are not on point to follow in the area behind the point's stern, so the point is free to steer the course and set the pace.

Setting the Pace

With the point setting the pace, it is important for him or her to look back every couple of minutes to check on each paddler. Generally, if a paddler is farther back than 100 yards, the point's pace is too fast, and if all of the paddlers are right behind the point's stern, his or her pace is too slow.

Concerns

If anyone is concerned about the point's navigation or pace, they should inform me rather than the point, and if necessary, I will address the problem. The reason for this procedure is that having several different people correcting the point can cause him or her to become aggravated.

Watching for Traffic

With the point busy steering by compass and monitoring the group pace, it is the responsibility of the other paddlers in the group to watch for ship and boat traffic.

Breaks

At the top of each hour is a five-minute break to drink, eat and pee, and at the bottom of each hour is a one-minute break to drink. However, anyone can call for an additional break when necessary. It is important to take breaks this frequently to stay well hydrated and fueled. These breaks may seem regimented, but on a long paddle it is good for everyone to know when the next break is going to be.

Coastal Paddles

Similar procedures can be used for group efforts on coastal paddles. However, instead of steering by compass, the point usually follows a general path, such as hugging the coast or paddling point to point.

Is the Group Worth the Effort?

One of the most important things to know is whether maintaining a group is worth the effort. If conditions are remaining calm and everyone is doing well, the effort to maintain the group may only cause aggravation. In that case, everyone will be a lot happier on their own or paired up with a buddy. The effort to maintain a group is only worthwhile when everyone perceives a mutual benefit from it.
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