Sea Kayak Chesapeake Bay Site Map

Site Map

Contains 366 pages. To open a page click on the underlined words.
To open or close a category, click on a blue triangle.

Sea Kayak Chesapeake Bay - A resource for individuals and groups interested in sea kayaking with a focus on the Chesapeake Bay.

01 - A Tour around the Chesapeake Bay - The Bay is often divided into three regions, the Upper Bay, from the Susquehanna River and the Flats to the Bay Bridge, the Middle Bay from the Bay Bridge to the mouth of the Potomac, and the Lower Bay, from the Potomac to the Atlantic Ocean. Each has its own unique character.

01 - Upper Chesapeake Bay - The Upper Chesapeake from the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake and Delaware canal to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is characterized by fresh water and high banks of long narrow rivers lined with hard wood trees. Human impacts and development around Baltimore, Baltimore Harbor, government facilities at Aberdeen Proving Ground, and rural agriculture transitioning to higher density housing along the waterfront contribute to varied and interesting area for kayak exploration.

01 - Safe Harbor Petroglyphs - On the lower Susquehanna, just below Safe Harbor Dam, the rocks whisper stories of the people of this land. Rock art of long ago generations still survives. Will it survive for the generations of the future?

02 - Havre de Grace - Gateway to the Chesapeake - Havre de Grace sits at the mouth of the Susquehanna River at the start of the Chesapeake Bay. With a long Colonial history, it played a role in both political and economic development of the United States.

03 -Tolchester Beach - With the advent of steamship routes on the Chesapeake Bay, Tolchester Beach in Kent Co., Md. became a favorite destination for Baltimoreans, 27 miles across the bay. After the 1880s, as steamship travel became more popular, improvements were made to the park, and eventually there were hotels, restaurants, and facilities for games, picnics, horse-racing, etc. An amusement park featured a merry-go-round and roller coaster, with games including a shooting range and tenpin bowling alley. Other activities were bathing and crabbing.

04 - Principio Furnace - The Principio Furnace, Maryland's first iron worksd, was established in 1719 in Cecil County and consumed 10,000 acres of woodland during its 100 years of operation.

05 - Baltimore and the Patapsco River - Baltimore sits at the head of the Patapsco River. Home of the Star Spangled Banner, the first railroad in the United States and gateway for the grain and coal from the Appalachian mountains and Ohio valleys, Baltimore has transitioned from a heavy industrial base to a balanced economy. Baltimore's past and its future can be seen from the waters of the Potapsco and its tributaries.

01 - Baltimore Firsts - Maryland Jockey Club and horse racing - Maryland has a long tradition in horse racing. Home to the first professional sports organization, the Maryland Jockey Club, it hosts the middle jewel of racing's triple crown, the Preakness.

03 - Baltimore Firsts - Balloon ascension - Although Kitty Hawk has been immortalized as the site of the first powered flight, the first manned aircraft flight in America actually happened on the outskirts of Baltimore, MD.

04 - Baltimore Firsts - Oldest surviving American Silverware maker - In 1815 Samuel Kirk started what was to become the longest lasting silversmith in America.

Baltimore Clippers - Pirates of the Chesapeake - During the War of 1812, Baltimore was referred to a "nest of pirates" by the British whose commercial shipping was repeatedly attacked by the swift and daring privateers sailing under a "Letter of Marquee" from the infant United States of America.

Fort McHenry - Fort McHenry, a star shaped fort guarding Baltimore harbor, withstood the British naval bombardment on September 13th, 1814 and inspired the poetry that became the words to our National Anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner".

06 - Chestertown - Royal Port City - Chestertown sits on the northern bank of the Chester River, a deep and well positioned port for the lucrative shipping of tobacco, slaves and grain from the surrounding productive fields. Chestertown became a center for shipping and commerce second only to Annapolis in colonial Maryland.

09 - Chesapeake Bay Bridge Walk - The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Walk crosses the 4.3 mile distance from Sandy Point between Annapolis and Baltimore to Kent Island. The double roadway elevated 5 lane highway has two spans that allow large ships to pass underneath. The bridge marks the unofficial boundary of the upper and middle Chesapeake Bay.

02 - Middle Chesapeake Bay - The Middle Chesapeake Bay, from the Bay Bridge to the mouth of the Potomac, is characterized by the mixture of fresh water from the Susquehanna and Potomac Rivers and the salt water from the Atlantic Ocean. Eastern Shore rivers are languid, tidal rivers extending far into the flat farming lands of the DelMarVa penninsula. The Western Shore has higher banks and long stretches with significant rivers.

Annapolis - Home of the State Capitol, St. John's College and the US Naval Academy, Annapolis has a long and proud maritime history. Known as "The Sailing Capital of the World", this beautiful colonial style city sits at the mouth of the Severn River on the western shore just south of the Chesapeake Bay bridge.

Brown Pelicans - The once endangered Brown Pelican is regaining its numbers. The northernmost colony of brown pelicans now calls Barren Island their new home.

Calvert Cliffs - The 100 foot white bluffs of Calvert Cliffs extend for more than 30 miles along the Chesapeake Bay. Located on the western shore just after the entrance of the Potomac River into the Chesapeake, the 15 million year old sediments in these cliffs were formed in a shallow sea. They contain fossils from over 600 species. mostly sharks

Kent Island and the Chesapeake Exploration Center - The Chesapeake Exploration Center is the gateway to Queen Anne's County, the Eastern Shore, and the Chesapeake Bay Region. The center features an interactive exhibit that explores man's close relationship with the rich natural environment of the Bay region, and considers how that relationship has shaped the area's cultural history.

03 - Lower Chesapeake Bay - The Lower Chesapeake Bay from the Potomac to Capes Charles and Henry is the final mixing area of the Chesapeake Bay estuary where the Bay finally meets the open Atlantic ocean.

Assateague Island - Assateague Island is an Atlantic barrier island off the Maryland coast just south of Ocean City. Home to herds of wild ponies most think live on its developed sister island, Chincoteague, this 27 mile long island provides diverse opportunities from crowded sun worship to lonely vistas of scrub and dunes.

Smith Island - Vanishing under the rising ocean - Smith Island is an eight by four mile island lying twelve miles off of Crisfield, Maryland. Slipping slowly and exorably under the rising waters of the Chesapeake Bay, inhabitants continue to hang on to a land and a life style that seems doomed.

Tangier Island - British base for the blockade of the Chesapeake - During the War of 1812, the British fleet developed Tangier island into a base of operations for their the new Corps of Colonial Marines composed of escaped slaves.

Virginia Barrier Islands - The Virginia Inside Passage lies behind a string of barrier islands stretching from Chincoteague Island to Cape Charles at the tip of the Delmarva penninsula.

02 - Basics - Just getting started? Here are some basics.

01 - Kayak Terminology - A guide to kayak & nautical terms. What is it and why is it important?

02 - Types of Kayaks - There are four broad categories of kayaks: General Recreation, Touring, Whitewater and Racing. What questions do you need to answer to determine which type of kayak is best for you?

03 - Kayak periodicals - Online publications for Kayakers provide another source of basic information.

04 - Kayaking organizations - Links to kayak organizations and associations that could help you get started.

05 - Where to find, buy, or rent kayaks - Here are some links to kayak stores, manufacturers, outfitters and communities.

06 - Kayak instruction and training - Where to get instruction and training about sea kayaks.

06.01 - Kayak Training Courses by ACA Certified Instructor - Kayak training is available for all skill levels in the Baltimore, Maryland area.

07 - Kayak Bibliography - Books about kayaks and kayak expeditions.

08 - Cold Shock - Cold shock is arguably the most likely killer of kayakers. It is also the least known. Even those who know a lot about hypothermia often know little about cold shock.

09 - Hypothermia - Killer Cold - An introduction to the dangers of hypothermia

10 - Other Medical Considerations - Dehydration, Sun Stroke, Heat Exhaustion, Hyponatremia, Cold Shock, Trench Foot

11 - Sharing with the big boys - General guidelines for safety around large vessels

12 - How to kayak - Making your kayak go - The forward power stroke and forward touring stroke

13 - How to kayak - Making your kayak stop - The backward power stroke is used for stopping and going backwards.

14 - How to kayak - making your kayak turn - Sweeps, rudders and draws. Strokes for turning your kayak.

15 - How to kayak - keeping your kayak from capsizing - High and Low Braces - Staying on top of your kayak.

16 - How to kayak - What to do after a capsize - wet exiting - You missed your brace. You capsized and now you are the keel instead of the mast. Now what do you do?

17 - How to kayak - getting back in your capsized kayak - Paddle float rescue and other self and assisted rescues that work

18 - How to kayak - getting in and out of your kayak - Get in and out of your kayak with grace and safety. Kayaks are tippy, especially when you are not in them. Use these techniques to enter and exit a kayak safely.

19 - Basic Equipment - Here is a list a basic coastal kayaking equipment, safety gear, signaling devices, navigation, clothing and camping gear.

20 - Paddle types shapes and sizes - Paddles - everyone likes something different and that is a good thing, otherwise we would all be trying to buy the same paddle. I use a Lightning paddle.

21 - Navigation Aids - Aids to Navigation can provide a boater with the same type of information drivers get from street signs, stop signals, road barriers, detours and traffic lights.

22 - Low-head dams: A not-so clear and present danger - Rivers can be treacherous, not only because of the tremendous power they possess, through the movement of flowing water, but because of structures they flow over, around and through.

23 - Mosquitos - They may be low on the food chain, but they are above you! Mosquitos are an unavoidable fact in the summer months. Here are some suggestions on how to do battle with the little buggers.

24 - Seasickness, Mal de Mer - If you are one of the many who are susceptible to seasickness, some preparation and knowledge might prevent a very unpleasant experience.

25 - Choosing a spray skirt - A spray skirt is important for safety and comfort when kayaking. Fit and function vary among the many types of spray skirts available.

26 - Basic Kayak Kit for every paddle - What should you carry every time you go paddling?

03 - Intermediate Topics - Of interest to those with intermediate levels of kayak skills

01 - Am I ready to go kayaking? - Here are some things to consider in deciding if you are capable of kayaking on an extended or solo trip.

02 - Kayak camping and expeditions - Staying out two or more days in your kayak presents a number of challenges as well as new experiences.

02.01 -Packing it in - Packing a kayak for an extended trip is an artform. Proper consideration of balance and trim can improve the performance of your kayak and your enjoyment of your trip.

02.02 -Packing it out - Take only photographs and don't even leave footprints. Being thoughful of the fragile seashore environment will keep access to these areas open for all of us.

03 - Hand Signals - Communication over distance - Communication at sea can be difficult if not impossible. Learn a set of hand signals. Make sure everyone in the group agrees on the meaning.

04 - Basic Surf Paddling Techniques - Surf poses a whole new set of problems and opportunites for the touring kayaker. Here are some tips on how to handle it.

05 - Downwind Paddling Technique - Paddling downwind can be fun. Practice and skills developed in controlled conditions can pay off in a free ride or when conditions get difficult.

06 - Long Distance Touring Stroke - Long distance kayaking like cycling, skiing, hiking and other endurance pursuits, requires conditioning, training, and above all proper paddling technique.

07 - Towing Techniques - Sooner or later either you or a companion will need to be towed. Practice these techniques and you will be ready.

08 - The Physics of Rolling - Rolling Principals - Knowing the physics can help your roll

09 - Paddling in a group - Group paddling dynamic - who me?

10 - How to use a marine VHF radio. - Most people have had little exposure to the proper use of a radio over the regulated airwaves. There is a protocol and special language for radio chatter which enhances the effectiveness of communications for all users.

Core Exercises for Kayakers - The torso and legs are the engine of the kayak. Most of the power comes from there. Here are some exercises for increasing your power and stamina. Get in shape or stay in shape with these movements.

Intermediate Training - Intermediate coastal kayakers will perfect advanced strokes and maneuvers, as an end goal, or as preparation for advanced open water skill development.

Knots - Keeping it where you want it - Knots are important anywhere there are ropes and lines. Here are some basic knots that keep things put; the clove hitch, bowlin, figure eight, fishermans, truckers and Prussic knots.

Know Chart, Compass and Things Magnetic, your GPS died don't be Pathetic - Fewer and fewer people use a compass for navigation as GPS devices have become ever more popular. Relying solely on an electronic device for your safety is a mistake. You should also know how to use a compass, understand its limitations and be prepared to navigate the old fashioned way.

Maintenance - Keeping your kayak in top condition - A yearly maintenance program will extend the life of your boat and the associated expensive equipment.

Roll - Deep Water Storm - This roll many find incredible easy to do. It looks like magic as there is very little apparently going on. But it works especially well when the waves are high and the action on the surface is hot.

Safety & Survival Items - Things to have when times get tough - Everyone who kayaks should have an set of emergency items that they have available when out for any length of time. In addition to a medical kit and a crash kit for cold water paddling, these are items that you should consider carrying.

Tides - What causes tides? Gravity and rotation of the earth, sun and moon. Learn how the complex interaction of these three bodies affect your world.

04 - Advanced Topics - Specialized topics for advanced kayakers.

Customizing the fit of your kayak - Foam pads, correctly applied to the seat and thigh braces, are essential for creating the snug, comfortable fit paddlers need.

Derek Hutchinson - Thoughts of a kayak pioneer - Derek Hutchinson is considered a father of modern kayaking. He was there at the beginning of British sea kayaking, the creation of the British Canoe Union and many techniques employed by sea kayakers of today. He talks about some of the early innovations and gives his views on the state of kayaking today.

Making your own traditional Greenland style paddle - Traditional Greenland paddles can get fashioned cheaply from basic stock with a little wood working skill and a few simple tools.

Rescues & Rolling - An advanced rescues course prepares you for the worst the sea has to throw at you, whether you're out for a day trip or a week long expidition.

Sail Plans - Make your own kayak sail - From a few pieces of easily obtained materials, you can make your own very effective sail with a minimum of effort and no modification to your kayak hull.

Sea Anchor or Drogue - Make your own - Sea Anchors are used by vessels in heavy seas and strong winds to keep the bow positioned into the oncoming breaking seas. They can also be used to maintain position.

Sea Kayak Disasters - Bad things can happen when out in a kayak. Read about other's misfortunes and learn lessons to keep yourself safe.

Surf - Procedures and considerations for launching - If you are going to paddle the coast, you are going to have to deal with launching off the beach into the surf. Here are some things to consider.

Surf Techniques - Surfing can be a lot of fun. But it can also be dangerous. In any case, it is an essential skill for any touring paddler. There is no better way to build your technique for bracing, edging, boat control and rolling in real conditions.

Surfing Terminology - Surf kayaks can perform many manoevers on the face of beach surf. Touring kayaks are not well designed to perform these moves. But what the heck........

Training - BCU Week Tybee Island - Every year in late October, Sea Kayak Georgia hosts a five-day British Canoe Union (BCU) symposium at Tybee Island, Georgia. The 2006 symposium ran from Saturday, October 28 through Wednesday, November 1. It is the second one Rick attended and both have been excellent learning and teaching opportunities. It’s also a great way to stretch out the warm weather/water paddling season.

05 - Resources - Resources for weather forecasts, charts, etc.

Beaufort Wind Force Scale and Sea State - The Beaufort scale is an empirical measure for the intensity of the wind based mainly on sea-state or wave conditions.

Environmental Resources - Information on the Chesapeake Bay environment - grasses, plants, insect, fish and more.

Event Listing - Activities around the Chesapeake area.

Event Calendar - Activities around the Chesapeake area.

Gear List and Float Plan - Gear List and Float Plan (PDF)

Launch Ramps - Kayak Launch and Boat Ramp Listing with fees, facilities, season, hours, pictures, maps, directions and notes. Click on black triangles to toggle sort order. Click on blue triangles to expand or collapse categories.

Maps, Charts and Coastal Images - The NOS MapFinder service provides "one stop shopping" for images and data from a number of National Ocean Service (NOS) offices

NOAA CoastPilot Link - NOAA publication Coast Pilot® available in electronic (adobe.pdf) format.

Tides, Weather, Winds, Surf, Water, Fishing and Road Conditions - Know before you go! - Observations and predictions on weather, tides, winds, wave heights for planning a kayak trip.

Water Access - Links to the Maryland DNR water access site.

Water Trails - Water Trails information and links, Chesapeake Gateways Network, Maryland Water Trails, Pennsylvania Water Trails, Florida Water trails, maps and guides

What's New Here - Find out what's new and what has changed recently on this site.

06 - Safety - Kayaks are generally safe but present varied potential dangers. Use of the 6Ps of kayak safety - Planning, Partner, PFD, Preparation, Practice and Patience - can lessen these objective dangers.

EVEN THE BEST BOATERS CAN FIND THEMSELVES IN SERIOUS TROUBLE ON THE MILDEST OF DAYS IN THE OCEAN. PLEASE BE AWARE THAT EACH BOATER TAKES FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR HIS OR HER OWN SAFETY, AND IS TOTALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSESSING THE DANGER LEVEL AND ACCEPTING THE CONSEQUENCES OF PARTICIPATING IN THIS SPORT .