Oct. 3: Chincoteague Bay
KAYAK/CANOE: Chincoteague Bay, 8 am – noon
COST: $80/person sharing a tandem kayak/canoe ($160 total), $115/person solo kayak, $40/person with your own boat & portage
MEETING LOCATION: George Island Landing (see Google Map)
Join us as we explore lower Chincoteague Bay, the largest coastal bay on the Delmarva Peninsula, rivaled only by Barneget Bay to the north and Albemarle Sound to the south. In late summer and early fall the saltmarsh explodes with color; with the deep reds of salicornia to the subtle violet of sea lavender, in contrast to the green and tans of the spartina. This time of year also provides good opportunities to see resident and migrating shorebirds, gulls and terns and early migrant raptors and waterfowl.
Learn about the ecology and history of the area as we paddle the bayshore and poke up some “guts” and larger creeks. We’ll talk about the tidal wetlands and plants, sea level rise, marsh migration and discuss the human history of the seaside bays; from the native peoples and their seasonal use of the area, the late 19th and early 20th century exploitation of the resource and the present day challenges.
With a tidal range of less than two feet, shallow water and abundant small sandy beaches, the possibilities for adventure and exploration are many. We’ll have ample opportunities to get out and walk along the shoreline and marsh edge, locally known as “progging”.
The lower portion of Chincoteague Bay is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the resort towns to the north and south, and affords one the opportunity to step back in time, to glimpse the Eastern Shores seaside as it once was.
We will be paddling through some open water so wind and weather will dictate the route and itinerary. Kayaking experience is required. Paddlers may choose canoes, tandem kayaks, or solo kayaks. For scheduling, please select tandem kayak if you want a canoe. We will follow up later with your preference. PLEASE NOTE: paddlers will meet at the launch location. Van transportation is not required for this trip.
All paddling done by participants; some experience required. Must be 13 years old to participate. Please note: If you are reserving a tandem kayak or canoe, please plan to attend with a paddling partner also registered with the DBW. We can’t always guarantee another solo paddler will join you in a two-person boat. All trips require a 4-person minimum to launch. If minimum is not met, we will refund paying participants. Thank you!
Click here for paddling meeting locations and tips for a great experience!