After an easy launch, the fog became so thick that most of the time we could see less than 30 yards. Instead of looking at the shoreline, we spent most of our time looking at our compasses. I had a GPS and it was useful to verify where we were, how far we had paddled and that we were maintaining our course. But it was compass navigation that allowed us to paddle in a straight line without meandering. Although a GPS is a versatile instrument, is not a good substitute for a compass when you can't see where you are going.

Paddling in the fog was eerie. There were times when it seemed that I could see deeper into the clear water than I could into the fog. It seemed surreal when a faint outline in the fog would suddenly materialize into something such as a large fishing boat with about 30 men crowding the decks. Fortunately nothing was moving very fast in the fog.

The fog also had a way of playing games with my distance perception. At one point I got the impression that the fog might have lifted a bit and that I could see a large white object about 300 feet away. But as I tried to figure out what the object was, I suddenly realized that it was only a small seagull only 40 feet away.

I think our biggest thrill was when a dolphin surfaced about 15 feet in front of Chris. We stopped paddling with the hopes of seeing other dolphins. A few seconds later we heard the dolphin surface behind us, but it was hidden by the fog.

After paddling about 5 miles we found Topanga State Beach right where the GPS predicted that it should be found! As we paddled by the surfers at Topanga point, they gave us the eye. Things were so flat out there that I wondered if they were hoping we would kick up a wake for them to ride. Paul seemed to think that their expressions were motivated by territorial instincts.

We gave the surfers a health margin and paddled on down the beach to where the surf was small and there were fewer rocks and plenty of sand to cushion our landing. We landed on the beach and took a short break to stretch our legs, use the rest room, and eat a snack.

By the time we were ready to launch the fog was lifting. On the return trip, the fog cleared away and we were finally able to see some amazing beach houses and elegant hillside estates. I think we paddled faster on the return trip. There is a tendency to move faster when you can see where you are going.

It was another great day on the water. We got to test our navigation skills, we got some healthy exercise, we had lots of fun, and we didn't damage anything.

Hope to see you on the water,

    Patrick Martin