Velocity Maiden Voyage

Today was Velocity’s maiden voyage.

Who or what is Velocity, you ask? Well, Velocity is the model name of my new-to-me kayak, which I bought yesterday from Paul Lewis… a competitive kayaker/canoeist (see Custom Walking Stick post, dated August 12, 2012 for more about Paul). Paul sells a few kayaks and canoes, and particularly suggested the Sun Velocity for me, given my size, experience, intended use. And Paul was correct in his choice; Velocity fits and suits me perfectly (thanks Paul).

As noted by the Great Canadian Canoe and Kayak Company, the Velocity is “an expert's kayak that is beginner friendly… the best crossover kayak ever made for both touring and river running. The revolutionary hull design makes the Velocity both faster and more maneuverable than other kayaks of its length. Entry level paddlers can get started with an efficient design that is stable, comfortable and predictable. When your skills improve and are ready to push the envelope (quicker rivers up to class III whitewater, multi-day backcountry treks, coastal paddle trails, or ocean surfing) the capabilities of the Velocity won't let you down.”

Today, I joined several friends for a brief paddling jaunt in Volgers Cove. At first, I didn’t seem to track well, but I soon became accustomed to the power of my new, 240cm, wood paddle and mastered the ability to keep the boat straight.

The voyage was short, but very enjoyable. I look forward to venturing on the waters again soon, and am happy that I have many friends to join in paddling adventures.

Here are some useful links for kayaking in Nova Scotia:
Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Sea Kayak Routes
Paddle Lunenburg-Queens
Nova Scotia Boat Ramp Locations
Transport Canada Sea Kayaking Safety Guide

Deliverance

We simply have too much fun; thanks to wonderful friends.

Today, we trekked inland to Annis Lake, where Don and Marlene have a relaxing, rustic property. And our visit could not have been more enjoyable, given the serenity, munchies, campfire, and camaraderie. Our stay was captivating and peaceful, particularly given the lack of any bugs… not a single mosquito!  

The highlight of the day was Susan’s first-ever boarding and paddling of a kayak. Congratulations Susan for your adventurousness, and thanks Don and Marlene for your easy-going guidance.

View Susan's adventure here:

Shelburne

After the Port L’Herbert Pocket Wilderness Trail, we headed to Shelburne to scout around town. There’s a lot to see in Shelburne, including historical buildings and homes along the waterfront. Regrettably, our arrival to town was late in the day, so we simply strolled along Dock Street and soaked in some of its’ history. As noted on the Town of Shelburne Visitors webpage.

“Shelburne Harbour has the third best natural harbour in the world. The native Mik'maq traversed the Roseway River and used the surrounding lands for summer encampments long before our shores were visited by Spanish, Portuguese and French fishermen.

In the spring of 1783, 5,000 settlers arrived on the shores of Shelburne Harbour from New York and the middle colonies of America. Assurance of living under the British flag, and promises of free land, tools, and provisions lured many to the British Colonies at that time. Four hundred families associated to form a town at Port Roseway, which Governor Parr renamed Shelburne later that year. This group became known as the Port Roseway Associates. In the fall of 1783, a second wave of settlers arrived in Shelburne. By 1784, the population of this new community is estimated to have been at least 10,000; the fourth largest in North America, much larger than either Halifax or Montreal.”

 

We also went to Sandy Point Lighthouse, which is situated in the water but you can walk to during low tide. Some history of this light is found on the Lighthouse Friends webpage:

“On September 25, 1873, H. W. Johnston, the Department of Marine and Fisheries agent for Nova Scotia, submitted a report to the minister of the department containing the following information on the recently completed lighthouse at Sandy Point.

Shelburne Harbour Light, which is a fixed red one, elevated sixty-seven feet above the level of high water, is situated on Sand Point, east side of the entrance to Shelburne Harbour. The tower, a square wooden building, is painted white, and was erected by Mr. George De Champ for the sum of $725. The light was first shown on the 1st September, 1873, and is intended as a guide to Shelburne Harbor, and to mark the dangers of Sand Point. Mr. Edward Goudock was appointed keeper, at an annual salary of $200.”

Port L'Hebert Pocket Wilderness Trail

Today we headed to Port L’Herbert to explore the Pocket Wilderness Trail. Surprising, this park is no longer serviced, but remains in great condition. The three kilometre trail is well marked, and includes many boardwalks over any wet areas, and three look-off decks on the waterfront.

Learn more below, and on the Trails NS website at:  Port L'Hebert Pocket Wilderness Trail

"The Port L'Hebert trail was Bowater Mersey's first Pocket Wilderness. It opened in 1979 as a project to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the founding of Bowater Mersey Paper Company Limited by Nova Scotian financier, IW Killam.

The Port L'Hebert Harbour is named after Louis L'Hebert, Champlain's apothecary on his voyage to Nova Scotia in 1604. It is a well-known wintering ground for migrating Canada geese. There is eel grass, open water, and the minimal disturbance the geese need to survive the harsh winter months. The Canadian Wildlife Service has designated the upper end of Port L'Hebert, including the delicate shoreline along the Pocket Wilderness, as a waterfowl sanctuary."