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Sea Kayak Trips Bulletin Board
Re: Quadra Island Trip Observations
Posted By: Liz Leedham In Response To: Quadra Island Trip Observations (Byron Lawrence)
Date: Thursday, 30 September 1999, at 9:24 a.m.
I was interested in your comments about your guided trip. I have had experience with both ends of the spectrum of guided trips. Of five trips taken with a company guide, one was a disaster regarding safety, food, etc. and four have been very well organized. The "disaster" was badly run; the leader had poor people assessment skills, little appreciation of low impact camping and a lack of awareness of hazards. The end result was a dangerous situation which fortunately worked out OK, but could have had tragic consequences. The other trips were excellent, well run with competent and safety conscious staff. The last two (Baja and the Queen Charlottes) were with Tofino Expeditions out of Seattle, a bit expensive but well worth the extra cost in peace of mind and level of comfort. Even windbound for three days in the Queen Charlottes, the group was well looked after and there was no shortage of good humour, good food and first aid material. I recommend asking around about the outfitter you plan to go with. After the first bad experience I looked for a good report from acquaintances. I also like to know what training is required for the guides and would probably steer clear of trips organized by someone who is a great kayaker but has no formal group rescue and first aid training, etc. Cheaper trips may mean less staff training, boat maintenance and food allowance. Having said that, I would never go on any trip without at least my mini first aid kit. Several bandaids, Ibuprofin, insect bite relief, etc. It also includes duct tape and two tampons which make nice sterile absorbent packs for a nasty wound in an emergency. I had to dress a friend’s very nasty cut foot on a Georgian Bay trip and now my mini dressings go in a tiny red pouch on all day trips. I also carry a larger one when kayak camping. If the tour group has a good first aid kit, I don’t usually bring a larger kit. I trust a good leader, but in the end it is down to you. If you know your limits, then don’t be afraid to say so, and ask questions. Before the trip!
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