Sea Kayaking: Navigating with Confidence to Blake Island!
Presented by Mountain to Sound Outfitters, this class is designed for paddlers operating in the dynamic marine environment of Elliott Bay and Puget Sound, specifically building toward the Blake Island crossing.

Course Overview

The class focuses on the practical skills and judgment necessary for safe travel, combining shoreline instruction with on-water practice in real paddling conditions.

Format: Lecture + on-water application.
Price: $59
Date: June 17th from 6 pm to 7 pm
Capstone: The class builds toward a capstone crossing from Seacrest Park Cove to Blake Island, where students apply the skills in a real-world setting.

1. Navigate Safely in Busy Water

Learn how to identify ferry routes, shipping lanes, restricted areas, and other high-traffic zones in Elliott Bay.
Gain boat traffic awareness and master safe, predictable crossing techniques from a kayak.

2. Understand Wind, Weather, and Sea State

Build skills in reading NOAA marine forecasts and interpreting marine weather.
Recognize local wind patterns and exposed areas.
Know when changing conditions mean it is time to turn around.

3. Work with Tides and Currents

Learn how Puget Sound tides and current flow affect route choice, timing, and ferry angles.
Apply tides, currents, and ferry-angle basics to stay on course and avoid getting pushed off line.

4. Use Essential Navigation and Communication Tools

Practice with charts, compass, and low-visibility navigation.
Add basic VHF radio use for situational awareness, communication, and emergency response around commercial traffic.
Discuss and practice navigation tools and techniques.