Dana Point
On Sunday April 14, Duane S and I launched from the swim beach in
Dana Point for a 18 nautical mile trip to main beach in Laguna and back.
This was the third training paddle in preparation for our upcoming
Catalina trip on April 26 - 30. Except for overcast skies, conditions
were prefect. Smooth seas and a gentle breeze at our back for the trip to
Laguna Beach. Things weren't much different on the return trip. Gentle
breeze in our face made for a cooler paddle on the return. Entire paddle
took about 4 and half hours with an average speed of just over 4 nautical
miles. PS the speed is more a reflection of the perfect conditions than
either Duane's or my desire to paddle fast.
The only one problem in this whole
trip was a black oily residue on the waters off south Laguna. Not really
sure if it was oil or sewage, but it sure wasn't comfortable paddling in it,
and it didn't come off the boats easily when cleaning up after the paddle.
Well there wasn't much adventure on this trip, but it was great to do a long
paddle on such a scenic coastline. Next week is the last of the Catalina
training paddles; it is a 20nm paddle to oil platform Edith and back from
Alamitos Bay in Long Beach. If you're interested in that paddle, and have
the necessary skills and stamina, Duane will be posting details on this
trip shortly.
Dave O'Connor
Submitted on April 14, 2002