Well boys and girls, if your itty-bitty Brit-boat won't hold enough gear for your upcoming camping trip don't despair. This little doodad will let you pack everything into it, then simply seal it up and tow it behind you. http://www.kayakkaboose.com/ According to the text it tows "effortlessly". (snicker) Craig Jungers Moses Lake, WA www.nwkayaking.net *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
I can see Freya hauling that on her next jaunt! $900--I wouldn't pay that much for a kayak! On 3/18/2010 9:06 AM, Craig Jungers wrote: > Well boys and girls, if your itty-bitty Brit-boat won't hold enough gear for > your upcoming camping trip don't despair. This little doodad will let you > pack everything into it, then simply seal it up and tow it behind you. > > http://www.kayakkaboose.com/ > > According to the text it tows "effortlessly". (snicker) *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
There is a pretty good discussion of this on WCP, with some give and take involving the manufacturer: http://www.westcoastpaddler.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=3670 -- Dave Kruger Astoria, OR *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
I just read through the WCP discussion. Since I actually already *have* a Telkwa HV (which, surprisingly, doesn't hold all that much more than my Mariner Express) I already possess enough load carrying capacity for any trips I'm likely to make. If I want more I use my trusty Grumman canoe. If I want still more I launch the Muthah-Ship. The price of the Kaboose is more than my son-in-law paid for his Talkwa (non HV) in Kevlar (which was $600 and done on a frantic drive to Orcas Island after Pam found the deal.... someone had bailed on a kayak guide service business and moved to Leavenworth and wanted to get rid of the Telkwa fast). I only paid $1k for my Telkwa off craigslist; only $100 more than the Kaboose *and* I can loan it out to my friends. Or sleep in it if my house gets repossessed. I'd love to see a review by someone who has actually towed one of these things. I have towed Hailey in the F-1 (total of about 100 lbs - 30lb kayak and 70lb girl - in a 14 foot kayak) and it was no fun for even a couple of miles on flat water. I'd hate to tow something as short as this loaded with 60 or 80 lbs. Add wind and waves to the mix and I don't wanna be there. But if someone has and found it manageable it would be nice to know. Not that I'll buy one... I'll get a Pungo which can be used to stow gear as well as paddle around Africa. Craig Jungers Moses Lake, WA www.nwkayaking.net On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 10:08 AM, Dave Kruger <kdruger_at_pacifier.com> wrote: > There is a pretty good discussion of this on WCP, with some give and take > involving the manufacturer: > http://www.westcoastpaddler.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=3670 *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Has anyone experienced hassles bringing normal kayaking food (eg: de-hi meals, oatmeal, scroggin) into either Canada or the US ? When we come into Vancouver in July and then head up to Alaska, we will cross the borders a few times and in a few places. I've looked on the Canadian & US government websites for Food 'import' - but I've found only info about commercial import or 'Holiday Home' traffic. I've not found anything on hiking or kayaking trip food. There must be a few people every year who set out with a backpack full of carefully packaged food - or does everyone have to sit at the trailhead, breaking down a bag of local groceries ? That would be a real shame, as we're getting quite attached to our homemade de-hi recipes and have got a monster feed down to about 100 gms (3.5 oz) each. Best Regards Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Paul Hayward wrote: > Has anyone experienced hassles bringing normal kayaking food (eg: de-hi > meals, oatmeal, scroggin) into either Canada or the US ? Not via land routes, or via personal boat. You are flying, so there may be hassles intrinsic to airports. Primarily, Canada and the US are concerned about fresh fruits and vegetables: root crops, apples, oranges, etc., and some meat products. In addition, there are restrictions on alcohol and tobacco. The limits on the latter are stipulated, and it is best to declare what you have and avoid any lying. If you are over-limit, they will simply confiscate the excess. Here is a good summary of most of that: http://www.britishcolumbia.com/information/details.asp?id=4 And, this pdf file gives some specifics on restricted foodstuffs: http://www.ayc.com/uploads/US%20Canadian%20Customs1.pdf The kind of foodstuffs you describe should not be a problem. Preserved foods seem not to be a concern except some meats, going into the US. What is scroggin, anyway? BTW, Canadian cheeses are very good and worth stocking up on before launch. Some of their beers are also quite good, though expensive by US standards. -- Dave Kruger Astoria, OR *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Dave & Jennifer Many thanks for the quick feedback. This gives me some hope ;-) We will only be bringing evening meals (de-hi stews & mashed potato) and perhaps some small amounts of other dried ingredients (eg: dried milk powder & dried apples). This sort of stuff is pretty light & compact and can fit within our baggage allowance for the international flights. I certainly don't want to upset any border officials by lying about anything or carrying any 'contraband' at all. Don't smoke and haven't any need to bring alcohol with us. But it would be very sad to prepare lots of de-hi meals and have them confiscated ;-((( We will expect to buy locally fresh produce, salami, cheese, PB & J and bulk starch (rice, pasta, crackers, etc) and any other essentials such as energy bars ;-) I'm expecting to be able to do this sort of shopping at any jumping-off point, from Tofino to Juneau - based on the simple assumption that the local population has to eat something too - and these are staple ingredients. Sorry, used 'scroggin' instead of 'gorp' or 'trail-mix' - just got my idiom wrong. After 30 years in Canada followed by 30 in NZ - with a South African partner during the last 10 and various Australian & American friends - I do struggle to keep the various English vocabularies on-target sometimes. Occasionally someone's eyes will glaze over slightly and I'll realise I've got it wrong again. Before anyone tells me that I can get powdered potato at any supermarket, I can only say that if you've ever de-hi'd your own mashed potato, I don't think you'll be tempted by the store variety. Best Regards Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
On Mar 19, 2010, at 6:35 PM, Paul Hayward wrote: > Has anyone experienced hassles bringing normal kayaking food (eg: de-hi > meals, oatmeal, scroggin) into either Canada or the US ? > We've not had problems bringing small amounts of what might be called 'snack' foods. Mostly they seemed concerned about tobacco, alcohol, and firearms; though I think larger amounts of dairy, meat, etc. will draw attention. Fresh fruit & veggies can and will be confiscated at some ports of entry. We've not had any problems bringing blueberries from Maine into Nova Scotia, nor some Canadian produce back into the US by car. By plane, they tell you to consume it or throw it out in their presence before you pass through customs. Bulk foods in significant quantity may draw attention, but explaining that these are pre-packaged for use while traveling in the backcountry may get you through. The main problem is if you've packaged your own items vs. having them in their original containers with ingredients labels & seals. If you're bringing in 10 lbs of your home made trail mix, they may confiscate it or give you a bit a time. Your mileage may vary. When we entered Nova Scotia off the ferry from Maine, my name came up as a 'person of interest', from the ferry manifest...so they were waiting for us and as we drove off we were directed to a full auto search area. The Canadian border people were very courteous and professional. They told us that it was not smart to repackage vitamins and supplements in traveling containers...that they should remain in the vials or packages/bottles in which they were originally purchased. In other words, are those multi vitamins or vicodin/oxycontin made to look like vitamins. Others in the Vancouver area may give you best 411. My understanding is that it's high octane B.C. Bud that is being smuggled into the US and cocaine, etc. being brought across from the US. -Will *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Thanks William I can see where repackaging foods & drugs (as you describe) would cause border officials to be very interested - as they probably should be ;-) I am hoping that the Paddlewise group is large enough that some will have first-hand experience of travelling with paddling gear and foods - or sad tales of having to dump food at borders (in the face of absolute bans)... Could you please explain 'best 411' ? Best Regards Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
In Canada (and I'm pretty sure the United States) 411 is the number you call for directory assistance (numbers not in the phone book). By extension, it's become shorthand slang for "information" of any kind. Cheers, Philip ---- Original Message ---- From: Paul Hayward <pdh_at_mmcl.co.nz> Could you please explain 'best 411' ? Best Regards Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
On 19/03/2010 11:52 PM, Paul Hayward wrote: > Thanks William > > I can see where repackaging foods& drugs (as you describe) would cause > border officials to be very interested - as they probably should be ;-) > > I am hoping that the Paddlewise group is large enough that some will have > first-hand experience of travelling with paddling gear and foods - or sad > tales of having to dump food at borders (in the face of absolute bans)... > > Could you please explain 'best 411' ? > > Best Regards > Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand A few years ago now, right after Hurricane Katrina, if anyone remembers the year, my buddy and I took kayaks into the US from Canada. We were not asked anything out of the ordinary when crossing the border in either direction. Only the usual "What is the purpose of your visit?", and the guns, knives, alcohol and tobacco questions. Oh yeah, "Anything to declare?". I can't be sure, but it seems reasonable to me that we would have had lots of "snack food" in the car at the time. Gorp, snack bars, etc. The same on our return to Canada. The custom official at the border was more interested in the cedar strip kayak -- questions about how long it took to build, and how hard was it -- than anything else. Other than the issue of prescription drugs, already mentioned, and fresh fruits, veggies and meat, I would anticipate no issues. Of course, you always hear that someone has run into a power-mad custom agent who wants to give you a hard time for no apparent reason. There was a fellow on an newsgroup who was apparently deported from Canada for returning to his summer home in Nova Scotia because he had his dog with him at the time. He wrote a long tirade about the episode. If one believes everything he said, it was pretty bizarre. But I've been back and forth countless time -- not so much since 9/11 when things started to go a little 'strange' in the minds of Homeland Security -- and I've never had anything but polite and courteous questions. You *may* encounter a slightly more rigorous questioning at one or both borders since you -- I assume -- are not a citizen of either Canada or the US. I can't speak to how they deal with non-North Americans. I hope you have a great trip! -- Darryl *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Thanks Darryl > not a citizen of either Canada or the US As it happens, I am a Canadian citizen (born & lived in Montreal for 30 years); but I wouldn't expect to get any special treatment - one way or the other ;-) It's looking increasingly like we'll be crossing both borders (Canada & US) within 24 hours of arrival, so I'll let you all know how we get on ;-) After an intensive planning session this past weekend, it looks like the best route from Vancouver to Sitka involves heading down to Bellingham, Washington to join the AMH (Alaska Maritime Highway) ferry system. 'Best', as always, being defined as the usual 'individual blend' of speed, cost, hassle, discomfort, scenery and dream. I had initially thought of going from Vancouver to Prince Rupert (both in Canada) and then catching an AMH service from PR into Alaska - to Petersburg & then on to Sitka. I hoped that there would be an easy connection between Vancouver and Prince Rupert. Actually, there is an easy connection; but it's by plane - so not very scenic - and not cheap. You can also do it by Greyhound (cheap but 25 hours straight), train (not cheap and about 3 days) or one-way car rental (only one company and costs more than I usually spend on a kayak). The only Canadian way I've found by sea is via Nanaimo & Port Hardy, using two ferries and two bus companies that I think promise to connect in Nanaimo. Can't be sure, as neither bus company has an online presence - which seems a bit retro in 2010. Unfortunately, that also gets me into Sitka 4 hours after the last AMH boat to Sitka (for a week) leaves. Bummer! So, we'll bypass Prince Rupert and do an AMH branch-line connection from Petersburg to Sitka. Anyone have any comments on the merits of museums or architectural remnants of Russian America (or any other must-see/do sights/activities) in these two towns ? Of course, I shall investigate online; but a personal memory often adds some realism to internet hype ;-) With Natasha's current level of concern about BEARS; before launching the K2 north out of Sitka, we might also be looking for a religious institution (preferably one with a guarantee ;-) Best Regards Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Contact the local Canadian Consulate. Ask the particular departments by email. Canada Border Services Agency http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html CBSA on Camping http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/new-neuf/advisory-avis/2008-05-13-eng.html Canadian Food Inspection Agency http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/impe.shtml I strongly suspect that processed (i.e. your dehydrated) food will have no problems, but you should check. As others said, Cdn cheese especially cheddar is quite good. Beer from micro-breweries is also quite good--and while more expensive than the well-advertised US beer that is just tainted water (lighter even than the Cdn big names) it is (in my experience) not much more than US micro-brew. We cross the border by car routinely, with the usual groceries of a family road trip or camping expedition. GaryJ On 19/03/2010 7:35 PM, Paul Hayward wrote: > Has anyone experienced hassles bringing normal kayaking food (eg: de-hi > meals, oatmeal, scroggin) into either Canada or the US ? *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Thanks Gary - good suggestion on the Consulate in NZ. Regarding email, I would love to contact them directly by email; but I have searched through the many branches of the Canadian & US governmental websites - and they are generous with 1-800 numbers but very sparse on email contact details. Actually, as I wrote this, I checked again and found a 'general questions' address for the Canadian Border Services. I'll give that a go. I may have to resort to the 1-800 process, but hanging on the end of a long-distance call - and then later proving (to a border official) that I've had certain advice verbally - is not my preferred approach. Whenever I return to North America, I enjoy Canadian & Vermont cheddars and a few old favourite local cheeses. I grew up across the river from Quebec's Oka monastery - which made a very fine one. Just after I left Canada in 1982, they stopped making my favourite brew (I don't think it was due to my departure) and I've never been too hot on the micro-brewery scene. Probably due to an unfortunate experience in Boston, during my first micro-brewery visit (with a local brother-in-law) - which involved raspberry juice in the beer (if I remember correctly, but I've never really wanted to dwell on it). I think that offended my fundamental concept of what beer was all about... Best Regards Paul Hayward, Auckland, New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Awesome, looks like cross-border smugglers can haul way more BC Bud now and cut it loose if the heats on! Though, these guys didn't fare so well last week in their vessels of choice: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6PUc-jiVkE Which, of course, begs the question, "What do you do when you see something suspicious happening along the remote cost of BC?" Well, get the heck outta there!!! Seriously. To: Paddlewise Paddlewise Subject: [Paddlewise] The Kayak Kaboose Well boys and girls, if your itty-bitty Brit-boat won't hold enough gear for your upcoming camping trip don't despair. This little doodad will let you pack everything into it, then simply seal it up and tow it behind you. http://www.kayakkaboose.com/ According to the text it tows "effortlessly". (snicker) Craig Jungers Moses Lake, WA www.nwkayaking.net *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
[Please remove all old content that is not pertinent to your reply including old headers and footers. It's list policy.... this post was modified to meet policy] For about 5 years we towed a kayak behind our double kayak on our week long trips off the west coast of Vancouver Island. My wife and I had a double (Seascape II) and we had two kids in it (3 -> 9)and we towed a kayak so that we could bring more camping gear and live in greater comfort. It was surprisingly workable. We paddled in a group and managed to keep up without too much trouble. We were out there in the open ocean and experienced a variety of "conditions". Cape Scott, west Nootka, Esperanza For two years we towed a Keowee which is not to dissimilar to product described. With a following heavy sea, we once had slight problems with the Keowee surfing into our boat. We lengthened the line and that worked OK. For three years we towed a Mariner (original). Once we learned to load it stern heavy that worked fine and gave us a nice single kayak to use when we got to our destination. I did not perceive it as being any more difficult than the Keowee - it may have been easier when you were trying to go "fast". We would typically travel at about 3.4 mph on our trips. On one occasion, it got "loose" and we did not realize it for some time. Honestly, when you are paddling a big fat heavy double you do not notice it that much. Out of sight, out of mind. We had a fairly long tow line Anyway the Mariner is a fairly narrow kayak and some might say "tippy" but it was quite stable enough when it was loaded with gear with the heavy stuff low. If I were to do it again, I would create a towing point low at the bow of the towed kayak so that you were not pulling from such a high point as the bow of the Mariner. But we did not do it then and stern heavy loading it made it behave very well. We were not doing surf landings and we were camping at sheltered beaches but we had the range of summer kayaking conditions that you see off of Vancouver Island. I don't think it is worth buying a dedicated trailer because a kayak will do fine. We were quite happy when our kids got old enough to transition to a double and my wife paddling a single and then a double my wife in single and the kids alternating in a single and then, finally, to all singles. We have always been non-minimalist comfort camping kayakers. On Mar 18, 2010, at 9:06 AM, Craig Jungers wrote: > Well boys and girls, if your itty-bitty Brit-boat won't hold enough > gear for > your upcoming camping trip don't despair. This little doodad will > let you > pack everything into it, then simply seal it up and tow it behind you. > > http://www.kayakkaboose.com/ *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.4.0 : Thu Aug 21 2025 - 16:33:53 PDT