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Youth Quest Teen Kayak Adventure on the Bay |
 Youth Quest Kayak Trip for Teens - Aug 21 - Aug 24, 2011 - $ 425.
Overview
Teens with previous trip experience are invited to finish off the summer in style. This programme is subsidized by White Squall and designed to provide co-ed participants 14 to 17 years of age with a solid base of outdoor skills which will foster responsible leadership. Designed to build on skills learned during Youth Adventure (or equivalent experience) which includes basic paddle/rescue skills & camping experience. This programme will be a fun yet challenging sea kayak journey on Georgian Bay. Participants will be instructed and encouraged to master fundamental paddling, rescue, and safety skills and will have the opportunity to function as group leader during the programme.
On the first day we meet at the Paddling Centre on the first morning for a complete orientation and introduction to the group and trip staff. It’s best if parents can say goodbye at this point unless they have been asked to provide car transport to the put-in. For the rest of the morning, we will be out on Cole Lake reviewing paddling and safe kayak travel, including doing some wet exits and rescues. In the afternoon we'll load up and leave for Snug Harbour or another put-in determined by the leaders.
 The rest of the days will be spent paddling through the islands west of Parry Sound, setting up new campsites each evening. We travel most days, with some longer days in the boat. We might have to paddle longer days (up to 7 hours) but not every day. Participants will be asked to plan and lead part of the day's travel, taking into account all factors including group needs. Afternoon and evening teaching sessions will include: rescue scenarios, bracing, rolling, weather forecasting, island ecology, meal prep, and navigation.
 We see this programme as an important building block for those who want to learn more about the knowledge, skills and judgement necessary in outdoor leadership. Many White Squall staff got their start through this programme! We also want to have fun, learning and sharing in an island wilderness that is very special.
As with all trips, we’re at the mercy of the weather and mother nature, so don’t be surprised if all of this changes. The last day we'll paddle back to Snug Harbour having a final lunch enroute, arriving back at White Squall before supper, about 5 pm.
Register Now
 Meeting Place
White Squall Paddling Centre (unless otherwise notified). See the maps and directions.
Meeting Time
We'll meet at 8:30 am for coffee, tea, & on-site orientation. Then at 8:45 sharp we'll gather for an introductory meeting an overview of the trip. It’s best if parents can say goodbye at this point unless they have been asked to provide car transport to the put-in.
Staffing
The trip staff consist of a lead guide and an assistant guide, with an apprentice leader often coming along for training. The lead guide is trained in Advanced Wilderness First Aid and has advanced kayak and rescue skills along with formal White Squall guide training. Typically, they are certified national instructors with Paddle Canada and have many years of tripping and guiding experience. The assistant guide is likewise highly trained and is often in a co-leadership role with the lead. The apprentice has been chosen for his/her outdoor skills and is in a learning position.
Special Clothing or Equipment Needed
For Youth Quest, you’re welcome to bring a favourite game or musical instrument for camp but we specifically ask that you not bring electronic games or musical equipment (eg. IPODs or MP3s).
Please refer to the Pre-trip Information Package for a complete list of to bring. We’ll also send you that list upon registration. Follow it carefully and if you have any questions, please get in touch.
Suggested Reading, Maps, & Charts
Participants can mail-order these items through us by simply calling (705) 342-5324 or
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and we'll pay the shipping cost. (Yup FREE Shipping!)
Wind Weather and Waves – Environment Canada (great Bay weather text)
Ghosts of the Bay: A Guide to the History of Georgian Bay – Lynx Images
Natural History of Georgian Bay  (276k) by Gerard Courtin
A Brief History of Georgian Bay (172k) by Graham Ketcheson
Cool Facts About Georgian Bay (12k) by Graham Ketcheson
There are several excellent basic kayaking texts available – contact us for for suggestions.
Maps: 41H7/8 – Parry Sound
Charts: 2242 – Parry Sound
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