This trip was originally fully booked, but one participant after another dropped out due to injuries, illness, and equipment issues. On the launch day, there were only three intrepid paddlers left: our leader Philip, Stephen and myself (Jonas). Sadly, on the International Women’s Day, there were no female participants to honour and celebrate.
The initial plan was to launch at Jericho Sailing Centre and paddle to English Bay, but due to the dire weather forecast with strong wind and an atmospheric river, Philip wisely moved the location to Deep Cove.
My wife warned me before the trip that we would be absolutely miserable in these conditions. I told her that instead we would feel sorry for those who miss out on a lovely experience outdoors as they waste away their time with a cup of hot coffee in front of the fireplace.
Paid parking rules in Deep Cove are in effect from March 1st, but we were fortunate enough to find free parking at the top of the hill on Rockcliff Road. In summer, it will take nothing less than a miracle to repeat this feat.
The wind seemed reasonable at the time of launch at 9 AM, but a few minutes later we realized that Deep Cove is not completely isolated from the fierce power of Mother Nature. As we approached Jug Island, the wind picked up to about 15 knots, slowing down our progress and draining our forces. The heavy rainfall reduced visibility and fogged up my glasses and I could hardly see Philip in front of me. We enjoyed a short break in the lee of Jug Island to recover physically and prepare ourselves mentally for the next leg.
The strong headwind and rain continued during the crossing to Twin Islands. We changed our heading slightly to the north in the hopes of avoiding the relentless wind. Finally at Twin Islands, we found a sheltered spot, perfect for a water break and a quick snack on the water.
At this time, we were far behind the schedule, having achieved an average paddling speed of only 1.9 knots. We discussed our options and decided to reduce our ambition level to Buntzen Bay. Silver Falls would have to wait for another day.
The waves and wind calmed down somewhat, but our hands got cold despite wearing good winter gloves. After almost three hours of paddle we finally arrived at Buntzen Bay, possibly breaking the record for the slowest paddle recorded from Deep Cove to this location.
Lunch was a cold affair with incessant rain turning our chips and sandwiches soggy. I made good use of the hot blueberry tea to periodically pour the precious hot liquid on my frozen fingers.
For the return leg, I put on my toasty neoprene mittens, while Philip changed to pogies. The wind was now in our backs and paddling back was much quicker.
Not surprisingly, given the weather conditions, there were no other kayaks on the water, and very limited boat traffic. A few daring seals briefly stuck their heads above the waterline but quickly dove under again to avoid the rain and the cold wind.
We arrived back at Deep Cove shortly after 2 PM, five hours from launch time. We were wet and tired, but happy that at least the three of us had not spent our Saturday locked up indoors. Our mission accomplished, we are ready now for whatever the paddling season may throw our way.
Submitted by Jonas L
