Re: [Paddlewise] Group Crossing Procedures

Rob and All,

--- Rcgibbert_at_aol.com wrote:
> Is there still an overall leader or is the
> point become the leader? The next 
> subject seems to indicate there is a point
> position and a leader.

On trips I organize, I am the leader, but I try
to let the group lead itself as much as possible,
which is a goal I have with the crossing
procedures.

> I like the fact that it is
> expected of people to have a compass 
> on deck.

Not everyone has to take a point. Some paddlers
can't see a compass well or are not comfortable
steering by compass. But it sure helps when
everyone can help with a shift. That one-hour
shift is a lot of work, and it is nice to just
relax and paddle while someone else is taking
point. Crossings in So Cal are usually around 20
NM, and as short as 11 and as long as 40.


> Sometimes it is not the best course to follow
> given your destination, but 
> crossing a shipping lane at 90 degrees
> minimizes the exposure. Is there a VHF 
> aboard to hail an incoming freighter? 

To tell the truth, I ignore shipping lanes in So
Cal. A large ship couldn't hit me if it tried
(I'll probably get raked for this one). A boat
could, though. I'm not going to waste time and
mileage crossing shipping lanes perpendicular.
But I'm always on the lookout for ships and
boats. The boats scare a lot more than the large
ships. I also think it is better to avoid being
hit by ships by paddling rather than using VHF.

> I think someone ticking off the last known
> major coastal feature is 
> worthwhile. Do all have charts or topos? Is
> there an established course? Was there a 
> discussion beforehand of go and no go areas?

My crossing procedures don't include everything,
because I don't have time to write a whole book.
They are just a brief list a ways for a group to
try to stay organized on a crossing. When people
are new to going on trips with me, I can refer
them to the guidelines so they know what to
expect and what to do.

> I think it's worthwhile if the risks go up.
> Lots of people run through rock 
> gardens or caves where the risks inherently
> increase, even in otherwise calm 
> conditions. Solo or duo paddlers have fewer
> resources than groups. I think I 
> violate this one more than anything.

If a group is willing to stay together, that is
great, but when it falls apart, that is fine. I
am perfectly fine with everyone taking their own
risks. My nickname isn't "Darwin" for nothing.

Duane
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