Re: [Paddlewise] Shipping Lane Traffic

From: Duane Strosaker <strosaker_at_yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:06:46 -0700 (PDT)
Jerry,

Cargo ships aren't that wide, and they don't turn very fast. Even if one is coming straight at you from a few hundred yards away, a kayak should be able to get out of the way. I'd much rather be in that situation with a cargo ship than a meandering pleasure boat.

I think the biggest factor in handling the shipping lanes is psychological. The size of the cargo ships is intimidating. Over the years, some people in my groups have freaked out a bit the first time, but once they see how easy it is to avoid the ships, they are more relaxed. It sounds like you and your wife did a fine job avoiding the ship at Rosario Strait.

Duane

--- On Wed, 4/22/09, Jerry F <gfoodma_at_earthlink.net> wrote:

> I had asked about avoidance based on a bad experience
> crossing Rosario Strait in the San Juans with my wife in a
> double.  When we were committed we saw a huge barge coming
> down the channel and could not tell whether it would pass in
> front or behind.  VERY   scary.  In the event it was a good
> half mile away when it passed.
> 
> I just do not see how you can judge from the kayak where
> these huge ships will cross, nor when.
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Received on Wed Apr 22 2009 - 17:06:53 PDT

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