Kim and brother Michael, Mendocino
Dear Kayakers of the Open Coast:
Welcome to our adventure in Mendocino, one of the primer sea kayaking destinations on the West Coast.
Our plan on Wednesday is to explore the sea caves, arches and kelp beds directly in front of Van Damme State Park. The scenery here is spectacular! On Thursday, we'll either continue exploring this beautiful area or select another location along the coast. As always, our itinerary will be determined by weather and ocean conditions. There are several rivers and protected estuaries that provide good alternatives if ocean conditions are extreme. We will use Van Damme Campground as our base camp ( car camping).
The trip officially begins with breakfast at 8:30 am on Wednesday, August 5th at our campsite at Van Damme State Park. If you are driving up that morning, an alternative meeting time is 10:00am at the Van Damme coastal access which is directly across from the campground entrance on Highway One, about 3 miles south of Historical Mendocino. We will have another full day on Thursday with a departure after breakfast on Friday morning.
To register for this program, please send a nonrefundable deposit of $50 per person to BWV, 108 Mason Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. The balance is due by July 1st. Full refunds (minus $50) will be given with at least 21 days notice prior to the trip date.
Arrival to Mendocino
If you plan on arriving Tuesday evening, you may join us at the camp sites that we have reserved for the next three nights. When checking in, just look to the right of the registration booth where there is a message board. Our camp site will be posted under Blue Water Ventures/Kim Powell. On Tuesday evening, we will have a campfire going but dinner will be on your own. You may stop for fast food along the way or bring a picnic dinner to our campsite.
Kayaks and Wetsuits
We will be using a variety of single and double sit on top kayaks, ideal for exploring the rock gardens and sea caves of Mendocino. You will be given a Farmer John style wetsuit unless you prefer to use your own. Just indicate by email prior to the trip if you are bringing a personal wetsuit. Additionally, please email any dietary restrictions.
Packing List
A complete packing list will be sent to you this summer. All kayaking gear is included in the cost. We have enough tents for kids to double up in, but parents should make arrangements to bring their own tents.
Directions:
From the Golden Gate Bridge, plan on a 4 to 41/2 hour drive to our campsite, depending upon traffic. Drive north on Highway 101 and take the 128 West Cloverdale Exit. Follow 128 to Highway One North towards Mendocino. Van Damme State Park is on Highway One just south of Mendocino. There is a large parking lot on the ocean side and the campground entrance directly across from it.
Trip Cost includes two full days of guided instruction in rock garden exploration by kayak, three nights of car style camping, meals (3 BF, 2 lunches, 2 dinner) naturalist talks and kayak equipment. Adults $295; kids ages 13-17 $250.
I hope this letter answers a few questions. I am looking forward to our adventure in Mendocino! Please don't hesitate to call or email with questions.
Very Sincerely;
Kim Powell, MRPA
Owner,
Blue Water Ventures
phone & fax: 831-459-8548
www.bluewaterventures.org
email: bluewaterventures@sbcglobal.net
108 Mason St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
