: Conditions looked good this afternoon, onshore wind 12/15mph from
: NW, 12 inch wave height, about 5ft. between crests. So I decided
: to have another paddle. Wrinkle behaved well into, and off, the
: wind but was difficult to turn. Big, edged, sweep strokes
: necessary to make laboured turns - especially difficult when
: broadside to the waves and wind. Decided to practice figure of
: eights to get used to the kayak's handling. At one point whilst
: broadside on to the waves I capsized.

: The good news is that the wet exit was easy. The bad news was that
: I was about 70 yards from the shore and sea temperature was 52F.
: Unfortunately I lost my paddle. Luckily the onshore wind helped
: me back to the beach. It was also good to see Wrinkle had not
: taken on too much water. Upside down the waterline was 2/3
: inches above the topside of the gunwale i.e. most of the hull
: was above water, making a good catch for the onshore wind.

: It seems that the pool noodles I used for internal bouyancy did an
: excellent job.

: A drysuit and neoprene balaclava were delivered to me two weeks ago
: - but have not been got into as yet. Guess what I will be doing
: tomorrow?

: Cheers

: TomR

Kinda silly to be freezing in 50 degree waters with a drysuit at home.

I know they tend to be a pain to put on and sometimes to wear, better than the alternative though.

Bill H.