Tough decision, but the safest option

Linda, Deb and Steve -the decision makers

With charts spread before us, and the marine forecast and tide charts in hand, Linda and Steve brought their sailing experience and local knowledge to bear as we explored the route from Plymouth to Sandwich.

SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY in effect for today's send-off launch

Deb sailing in a light breeze.  No sail going up today!

The flat calm seas on Friday's launch from Yarmouth to Portland were a "too good to be true" start to the expedition.  Today we go from the sublime to the ridiculous.  In planning for today's launch, being forced to launch in the afternoon due to permitting,  and wanting to be as safe as possible in all weather conditions, I opted for a very short paddle today.  Here's why this caution is always the best option:

The kindness of strangers!

New friend I meet in Boothbay, Maine.

One of the things I am looking forward to on the Kayak For Safe Passage Kids expedition is making new friends along the way.  I am so humbled by the kindness of strangers when I talk with them about why I am kayaking from Maine to Guatemala.  One woman in Boothbay was kayaking while I was training.