NYCkayaker Montauk to Block Island

[jeff folmsbee]

Colin,

Not familiar with the collapsable Pakboat but I have
paddled to Block Island from Montauk twice in a 16'
Necky Elaho and, in fair weather, it is a very
do-able, fun trip. Must use compass & chart and/or
GPS, and launch with the ebb.  Visibility could be
such that you won't have a very clear view of the
island for the first leg of trip, which is kind of
cool -- a true open crossing. Consult Eldridge's for
current vectors -- from Montauk (as opposed to Orient
Point) your course is North east but current goes
south east, so you have to factor that into your
heading --  aim a little north of the island so
current will sweep you into it -- maybe 30 or 40
degrees, depending on wind.  Of course also important
to aim for the north south or middle of island,
depending on where you want to land.  If conditions
are unfavorable the day of (high unfavorable wind,
thunder storms, etc.) don't do it. Don't know your
self-rescue skills but you might want to do it with a
buddy, and I would carry a marine radio for weather
updates & general safety. I'd guess it might take you
4 or 5 hours. Can launch from any number of places on
Montauk, I use the Gossinger's Fish restaurant/pier,
you can leave your car in their parking lot & nobody
asks questions.

any more questions feel free to ask.

good luck,
Jeff Folmsbee

--- Colin Weatherby <colin.weatherby at gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi all,
> 
> I'm fairly new to the list and kayaking as well. 
> I've been taking small
> trips around NYC for the past few months and am
> looking for a bigger
> adventure.  I have some family that will be staying
> on Block Island in
> September and wondering about the feasibility of
> paddling from Montauk.
> I've measured it at 16 miles, which seems like a
> pretty significant
> distance, although I'm not the best at tracking
> mileage by kayak yet.
> 
> I'm concerned about traveling in open ocean, but
> this seems like a pretty
> doable trip.  Does anybody have any thoughts?  Any
> input would be great.
> Thanks!
> 
> Colin
> 
> ps.  My kayak is a collapsible Pakboat.  Please let
> me know if you think
> that would be a problem.  Thanks!
>
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