Kayak on the water, paddling trips

Chasing wind

2006-05-28T19:30:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny
Wind (km/h) : 9 S, 13 S, 22 SO
Temp. : 20 - 27 °C

Location : Îles de Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Beautiful day. The boat people return. Spent the day chasing after the wind. Moderate paddling with the wind in our faces then U-turn and sailing with the wind.

Fascinating catch. Saw a great heron slowly crouch towards the water, reminded me of a cat about to pounce. Sure enuf, he spears a fish and in 2 shakes of the head swallows it whole. The neck feathers ruffling as it swallowed.

Adventuring through the teenage marshes (yup, the new growths are already a foot), I was frequently startled by large sploutches. On several occasions I even felt the fish knock on the side of the kayak. Much to the amusement of my partner.

We arrived triumphantly into the channel with a nice breeze in the sail. Learning how to read the water and follow the wind. In effect, I could see where the wind was and guided the kayak towards the corridors with much success.

Planning a group trip soon. Cuz the algae is already starting to bloom. JF ran into someone from his childhood. I was amazed by the coincidence. What are the odds of landing somewhere and walking through a wooded area to come face to face with someone from eons ago.

Much fun as the mix between paddling and sailing was even.

The boats have returned and with them the noise, fumes and waves. When I become ruleress of the world they will not be permitted ;o)

It's raining rain...

2006-05-21T17:18:00.000-07:00

Weather : Cloudy, light rain
Wind (km/h) : SW 13, WSW 26 gust 41, W 21
Temp. : 11 - 12 °C

Location : Îles de Boucherville, Québec, Canada

The kayak - canoe rental begins this weekend. Unfortunately for them the day was not particularly enticing. However, being the opportunist, what's a little rain when you're in a kayak. So we set out, the water levels have lowered slightly but there is still not a lot of beach to take off from.

Curious by-standers inquistioned the Parks Canada guy. His collegue just stared as JF set up his sail. Yup, today was gonna be the first outing at least for me. As we set out, a light rain came down. Saw a couple of other solo kayaks. The landscape was alot greener than the last time, the new marsh slowly starting.

Hypnotized by the rain falling on the water, I looked out and saw a marsh mink holding what looked like a dead fish in its mouth as it swam. When it noticed us he swerved and flew through the water. Tiny dark and shiny head with bright orange/red flesh floating in front of its face.

Yup, the sterns are coming back. The swallows definitely outnumber the terns. Small and swift fliers.

Little damselflies...

American bittern

2006-04-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny
Wind (km/h) : N 5
Temp. : 21 °C

Location : Îles de Boucherville, Québec, Canada

The sun was warm, the breeze was cool. Trees budding, tractors burning, motorboats buzzing and hormones raging. Although the water level is still high we see a difference between yesterday. The beach is a couple of inches.

We enter a canal that is usually all marsh, on one side it is the golf course on the other a bike path. We snack on a Snickers and startle an American Bittern. The bird lifts it head towards the sky, as he does so he melts into the marshy background and becomes invisible.

Geese & Ducks in coupling season. The frenzy of finding a mate, building a nest, feeding and resting. A fascinating film in 3-D.

A perfect day!

Fox, swallows and geese, oh my...

2006-04-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny
Wind (km/h) : N 5 - ESE 5
Temp. : 10 - 13 °C

Location : Îles de Boucherville, Québec, Canada

A beautiful day, fresh in the morning a bit of dew on the blades of grass. As we pull into the parks' entrance a bushy-tailed red fox wanders through the tall savannah of broken blades. A bit further on, a Virginia deer its fur an ashen gray color, unlike the warm brown it wears during the summer.

The water levels are very high and there is barely any beach to depart from. Once on the water, with familiar partner the familiar routine begins...

Paddling is a natural as walking in these conditions, a small breeze just enough to rid us of the masses of little flies that are everywhere, when we enter the marshes. Well, where the marshes usually are, 'cuz the water is so high. Last year, the water wasn't as high, and the vegetation hadn't even started changing. Today, the water was high and the trees were beginning to show their greenness.

Great Herons flying about, swallows, greater yellowlegs, sandpipers, cowbirds... everyone singing, flying and coupling. Mother Nature in her simplicity. As the rental booth is not yet open, the way is clear. Motorboats have not yet invested the sinewy corridors.

The water is chilly. The River seems swollen as she covers the trunks of some trees and veils completly most of the little islands in this area. Although the Port was full of industry, the sounds were covered by the birds and the sun.

First trip for 2006! Happy Easter!

2006-04-16T19:24:00.001-07:00

Weather : Cloudy, Rain
Wind (km/h) : N 28 - N 24
Temp. : 1 °C

Location : Cap-À -l'Aigle, Québec, Canada

Awoke with the sound of the bedroom blind banging on the window frame. Arose and looked out onto the St-Lawrence and saw white caps in the sheltered bay... ummm, says I, day trip will be cancelled... ummm, says my partner, no way it's nothing just a little breeze...

Arrive at the Marina at the same time as our guide, Sébastian Savard. Smiles all around we get ready. Stepping into the double kayak, my boots fill with the frigid water. Ah, the joys of kayaking in April in Québec. We set out with a strong headwind that washes away the grime of the urban grind.

Looked up and saw Eiders (ducks), Lo and behold the first time I ever saw males... 'cuz when I go up north mating season is over and they are long gone in to the large leaving their wives and children near the coastlines. Here I saw dozens of them in couples. Just for those moments, the trip was a keeper!

As we continued up along the coastline, a clear line separated the waters coming from the rivers swollen with melted snow and the salty water from the Gulf of the Saint Lawrence. Once the line was crossed, the water was a clear green, cold and merciless. The tide was rising and the North Wind was blowing.

In our double kayak, we had no problems. Our guide, in his solo with no rudder had more of a challenge.

Discovered the joy of paddling with a wooden paddle. It is light and heats up with the heat from the hands. Grey Owl, very nice.

After awhile, the waves where starting to get the best of me and although I didn't feel the fear I had encountered last year, my body was tense. Also, we had been paddling for a few hours without rest, water or fuel. So that when we reached the Cape, I was somewhat weary and anxious to step on solid ground. The men were having fun in the waves, and I felt guilty but I had enough. A small seal was checking us out... just as certain birds tell us humans that Spring and Summer is here, our presence must tell them that the next season is beginning!

We landed on a rocky beach not too sheltered from the wind. With the Tide rising we had to raise the boats walking on slippery rocks and ice cold water. A nice warm homemade soup, sandwiches, couscous and a warm sweet coffee later, we were good to go... to the bathroom that is... aahhh the pleasure of peeling off layers of cold wet clothes and wet suit to urinate amongst the rocks.

The ride back was a breeze, no pun intended, the wind was steadily pushing us. Paddled like a fairy light with no power, just enough to keep warm. Our guide had more of a workout keeping his boat in order.

Seating here in front of my puter, dry and warm all I can say is "f**k, that was a great day!"

Thanks to Sébastian, for leaving his newly born son, Ulysses, and guiding.
Thanks to Gilles for giving me the ride out of town!

Now then, when is my next trip?!

Always protect yourself

2005-08-27T19:42:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny then cloudy
Wind (km/h) : ESE 8, ESE 13, SSE 21 gust 30, SSE 24
Temp. : 25 - 29 °C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

After a month, the landscape has greatly changed. Summer has been very dry, the beach has widened so much that now we must muck around in cloying gray clay.

Today is a first, my sister has joined. This allowed me to go solo. Second time this summer. As I am always in the front my rudder controlling abilities are not as efficient as my paddling stroke and this was to prove difficult towards the end of the day...

As we paddled our way out of the channel, we were amazed at the spread of the marshes. We even saw Momma deer with 2 bambis casually strolling along the dry coast... The last stretch before reaching the Seaway proved difficult. My rudder sinking into the soft clay, weeds everywhere. After finally freeing my rudder and pulling it up I noticed that the rudder wouldn't stay up and holding the cord around my wrist maneuvered out. Passing another solo, I heard the lament "this is too slow, I'm tired". The author of this line was female and I chuckled as I thought that it was an engine trouble more then anything else as I saw her paddling technique.

Finally out on the seaway, small waves from the light breeze and boats rocked on the side of the rented plastic Muktuk (Boreal Design). The seat is a bit high and the rudder was not in great shape. As we leisurely paddled towards our lunch, we could see sand bars and rocks usually invisible.

The first Island was already inhabited, but the second was up for grabs. Using my holiday paddling muscles I glided over quickly in order to claim it before anyone else. The sun was high and hot. The bug infestation from the last time we had visited this Island seemed to be finished. Settling on a small mound, on one side we could see the seaport with its mountains of minerals awaiting transport. The other side was a green and forestry haven.

We also saw a huge Canmar Triumph being turned around by a miniscule tugboat. A quick Google and the ship is part of the CP Ship fleet (container shipping company), its itinerary Montreal-Mediterranean.

As we finished our lunch that wind had shifted and gotten stronger. The acadian flag dancing valiantly on top of the mast. Wondered if I could keep up with them once the sail was out. However, once on the water the wind shifted and the sail was stored away.

Ever since the holiday adventures, my belly seems to become quite skittish when the wind blows. This pushes me to paddle anxiously... I soon found myself at the entrance of the marshes. Thick weeds everywhere, gulls standing up... ummmmm, not good, says I. So I continued paddling searching the water for signs of an entrance with enough water to get through. Saw a double coming from the marshes and decided to observe which direction they would take. However, they soon beached and had to get out to push their kayak. I resumed my search, and soon came across a breach, slowly but surely went through the narrow path.

Libellule's captain was bellowing at me to stop. A breakfast of coffee and cigarettes, a lunch of beer and cigarettes with the hot sun, not pretty. So we anchored onto a bunch of large marshes as the wind tried to push us out and rested... The Captain wanted to backtrack and go up the river on the other side. I veteod that idea, it was longer and the wind was stronger, at least in the marshes we were protected. So we inched our way through, just enough water to be able to paddle with my rudder up.

I like paddling without it because my awareness of the wind/water is greater. My sister was feeling hungry and although I was a bit anxious about the final stretch I figured it would be better to stop and stretch the legs a bit and eat some food for energy. We beached on the side and my sandals stuck in the stronghold of the gray clay. Leopard frogs jumped about as we pulled up the kayaks. We could hear the boat traffic and the wind. The Captain decided that I would have to tow them back, wondered how I could and then decided that I had no idea and would figure it out when the time came.

As we reached the river, the wind was gusting and there were many, many boats speeding up and down, I was constantly pushed towards the coast and had to keep paddling to stay on course. Captain bellowed out that I was to tie the front of Libellule to my rear. Doing so, the waves came bullying us back to land. As I set out the rope became taut and I paddled with all my might. A flashback of the holidays, when I had to pull Libellule off the sandy beach. Each stroke was draining my energy, and sneakily the rope became entangled in my rudder. Between the wind, waves and Libellule things were getting difficult. I finally requested that the rope be untied. The Captain was now blue and bellowing my unusefulness.

From my perspective, I wouldn't be able to continue at this rate, unable to free my rudder the waves and wind were too strong for me to control the direction with paddling and my weight. Lack of experience with the rudder didn't help either, neither did the Captain's words. I untied the rope and regained control. I looked back, and saw that they were paddling and moving, a very good and reassuring combo at this point.

Constant checking of the waves occupied my every move as I continued onwards. When I reached the entrance of the channel, I awaited Libellule. The final stretch was done in a solemn manner. The Captain was outraged that I had left them behind, I stated my reality at that moment and moved on. Weaving behind and in front of the boat people... Tried to find another landing spot with less muck, but didn't and I quickly sunk in the mud, holding onto the kayak for support as I pulled on my sandaled foot to liberate them from the suction.

Following this years mishaps, realize that wind is definitely making me uncomfortable. It's words warning me of any foolhardy attempts to outsmart it.

Wind, I say to thee, you have my respect and fear in the palm of your hand. I will not, now or never outsmart thee, but I will learn to live with thee!

Sail wins new friends

2005-07-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny then cloudy
Wind (km/h) : NNW 15, NW 15, NW 13 gust 30, NW 13
Temp. : 22 - 26 °C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Varennes, Québec, Canada

Double-crested cormorant, Common terns, Ringed plovers, limicoles, Ducks and great herons, red-winged blackbirds and gulls

2 compagnons joined the party. 2 doubles off for the day. Beautiful, just the right mix of sun and wind. Although the deer flies seemed particularly resistant in the strong breeze. Their spotted wings and virulent bite make them unwelcome. To paraphrase some ignorants bastards speaking of other people, " the only good deer fly is a dead deer fly ".

As we paddled against the wind but with the current we soon reached the crossing to the Varennes Islands. Usually a busy highway, it was almost quiet not tranquil but less busy highway. We landed on the side of a small island aproceededded to explore the coast. Swallows had made their nests on the side of tiny cliffs. The ground was a type of gray clay that stuck to feet or sandals with antagonizing abilities. The clay would accumulate into a sort of heavy clog. This clay sediment apparently smelled like metal. Realizing that they dredge the river it was supposed that this is the remnants or result of this.

As soon as we contoured the Island, our compagnons kayak was securely roped to ours. JF opened up the sail and we rode down back towards the Ã®les of Boucherville. Libellule was yanoccasionallyally any time the wind fell suddenly. As usual I worried about the safety issues. The boat traffic was heavier on this side, speedboats and sea doos, shitting their noise and fumes everywhere.

The wind was definitely stronger and instead of riding along the coast of the Islands we were on the other side. The wind was blowing against the current and although no gps we were goa lotalot faster than any of otherhere escapades and to top it all off we were pulling another double kayak occupied by 2 healthy white males. Speaking of color, I will now share a hypothesis. Deer flies and such are attracted by dark colors. Deers and my skin colour are dark. I am prime steak for there nasty little bites. The sail proved itself today, no one paddled yet we made our way upriver. The top sail support snapped in two but JF unfazed placed them back together, no dead nor wounded. Although totally uncomfortable by the yanks I managed to grab some shuteye. Libellule was swaying side to side, the other kayak was zigzagging behind. Almost like water skiers.

As we approached the marina, the kayaks were separated and the sail lowered. The wind slowly died down and we casually strolled back to port.

We stopped on Grosbois and visited the American Indian summer hut. We had missed a show tell becauses there were animal skins inside the hut. Two hearths had been made. Outside wooden racks, one over a smoldering fire, the other with a mackerel and a slice of samon hung over it in the far corner of the clearing a small smoking hut. The Indians smoked their fish and meet during the summer months many moons ago. The tradition almost extinct now exists in designated archaeological sites. Fascinating!

Nothing much to declare

2005-07-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

Weather : Hot
Wind (km/h) : ESE 13, ESE 8, ESE 13, SE 13
Temp. : 27 - 31 °C
Distance : 3.4 km Avg. moving : .8 k/h

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Double-crested cormorant, Common terns, Ringed plovers, limicoles, Ducks and an unusual amount of great herons, red-winged blackbirds and gulls

An unusual day. As soon as we departed, the sizzling began. Sun, sweat, heat. The wind was reduced to an occasional wishful breeze. The sail was limp, our limbs were limp. Sweat streaming out of pores. Hurtful deer flies. Raucous terns. Gulls galore. Water low, weeds high.

JF explains his sail to another kayaker. We are invited to where the kayakers hang out and practice rolling techniques and exchange stories. One of them had a video camera thingy so stay tuned...

Large great herons flew about as plentiful as the blackbirds. A large fish jumped out of the water in front of me showing off its white belly. Barely making it one of the small islands, we stumbled out of Libellule. The vegetation seemed sickly, as we approached the answer was an infestation of some type of white moth (maybe webworm or ermine). At the caterpillar stage, these critters munched on most of the trees and they were now attacking the shrubs.

JF played pingpong with their bodies as the fluttered in his vicinity. Wondered how such an infestation could take place with all the birds around here. Then realized it's like living in a neighbourhood for years, and never discovering a fantastic restaurant 2 blocks away.

Lotsa of dragonflies. Funny that they belong to the same group as lobsters, Arthropods. Their large heads, delicate wings and neon colors zooming across the water.

'Thar she blows into quicksand

2005-07-10T22:34:00.000-07:00

Weather : Mainly sunny getting partially cloudy, hot
Wind (km/h) : SW 18, W 24, W 35 gust 45, W 26 gust 37
Temperature : 27 - 31 °C
Distance : 23.4 km
Avg. moving : 6.1 k/h

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Varennes, Québec, Canada

Double-crested cormorant, Common terns, Ringed plovers, limicoles, 1 Least Bittern, 1 Common Loon, Ducks and the usual great herons, red-winged blackbirds and gulls

A late start but after yesterdays torrential rains anxious for the weekly fix of water, air and paddling. A navigational device in the family, Geko 201 (Garmin). It is horrible the effect of an LCD on my eyeballs. After finally getting the satellites signal, I couldn't tear myself from constantly checking the direction and speed.

The west wind pushed us to Varennes and as we let it guide us we watched the Asphalt Victory (from Georgetown) lift its anchors. Two beautiful tugboats strapped on one side. An adult common loon stretched out it wings on the water as if waving us onto the crossing. As we reached the first of the small islands in the St-Lawrence Seaway, another huge cargo forged onwards. As we pondered if it would take the same channel we were in, I became hyponotized by the small wall of water foaming on its front. This mother was moving a whole lotta water...

As it passed us, minutes later huge waves pushed us effortlessly. Small boats and sea-doos clinging onto its wake. As we rounded the island the wind had gotten stronger and our initial plan of resting before recrossing towards Boucherville was abandoned. Actually, we tried to land on the tip of the island but the water level was very low and Libellule was scrapping her belly on the weedy and rocky bottom. It was the first time the cormorants didn't fly away in disarray. This was their turf, we just hadn't realized it yet...

The wind was not too helpful and the next 45 minute were work. JF had noticed an area where we might beach, a new place on the eastern side of the marshland. Fair enough says I... as we approach the small muddy beach. I decide to do some fancy footwork, that result in spraying slimy weeds in my face and all over my seat. Surprised by the unwelcome, I firmly plant my feet on some kinda of quicksand...

Definition: Quicksand is loose, water-logged sand which yields easily to weight or pressure.

Within milliseconds I sink about a foot into an evil gray colored mud that won't let go. Never felt so rooted and grounded than at that moment. Using leverage - fear, discomfort and my paddle I free my poor traumatized toes from the gurk (gray + beurk).

A beautiful spot - a large dead tree trunk lay on the ground posing as a bench, I stretch out and look up. Zillions of small dark green leaves are making a sound that reminds me of rain. Bushes of wild comestible bright-colored berries. Thistles that haven't bloomed yet. A park guard surprises me and I return to reality.

The trip through the marshes proves that we are slowly regaining our paddling expertise as we out-manoeuvre canoes in the zig-zags. Yup, one idle second and its straight into the tall marshes. The lower the water level the higher they seem.

As we entered the final stretch, the west wind graciously pushed us towards the beach, weaving between the parked boats back to cement city.

Notes to brain:
Longitude = East or West
Latitude = North or South
North - Magnetic, Real, Grid

Clean Cormorant

2005-07-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny
Wind (km/h) : S 11, SW 15, SSW 11, SW 8
Temperature : 24 - 27 °C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Double-crested cormorant, Common terns, Ringed plovers, limicoles

Another perfect day, water level slightly lower than yesterday. Water clear, green and clear. We headed straight for the River, a youthful western wind blowing in our face. It was barely 12h00 and the blubbers had not all arrived yet. Witnessed an unintentional kayak roll, fascinating to see biped helplessly and inexorably roll over onto his side, like a dying red beluga. Plouff! Kayak 1 Biped 0.

The conditions were ideal for the sail to lead us to the Varennes Islands... And we sailed between a nesting area of 3 huge cargo ships. We sailed and paddled through the channel, looking 360° to spot the speedboat. As they whizzed by us, large waves would form in their wake and we would use those to push Libellule. As JF declared, "we got us a 3rd paddler". Verily, he spoke the truth. Libellule was burning "rubber". Large and long fishes jumped out of the water as we sailed by.

We landed on a little islet, scores of canadian geese, duck families and plovers everywhere. As we stepped out to investigate the place, we came across an eroding coastline within the layers of dried clay, swallows had made their nests... even noticed 2 fly out. A large partially decomposed eel-like fish lay rotting in the hot sun, a strong stench surrounding it. As the terrain rose a little we noticed a field with some sort of crop growing on it. Some thistles were growing but they weren't all in bloom yet. Just their spiky shiny darky leaves on display.

Observed many piles of feces. Not human. Small and dark brown. Curious, what animal laid these?

Being the ever-anxious partner, I wondered if I was hallucinating the stronger wind, an increase in small speedboats and a slight fatigue. JF sketched out the plan and I willingly obliged. As we set about crossing the wide and populated channel we paddled with the islet as a barrier against the wind. No boats ventured this close because of the thick forest of seaweeds, big rocks and low water levels. Perfect terrain for a kayak. So we startled birds and studied the waves generated by the speeders using the momentum to get us across quicker. As we approached the border, a young male buck raised an inquisitive head.

We entered the marshes. A double-crested cormorant was perched on a post used by the hunters to reserve their place in season. We stopped paddling and Libellule inched closer to the cormorant. The cormorant slowly realized that something was amiss, couldn't quite figure it out... then he shat, a strong jet of milky bird shit flew out of his butt. He arose into the air, then plummeted back in the water, butt first, then bounced his butt 3 times on and into the water and became airborne. From this event, I deduce that Cormorants like to clean their ass after taking a shit. Not unlike most people I know.

The arms were now beginning to feel warm and tired. The wind however, was not having it and steadily blew in our faces. As soon as we stopped paddling it didn't take long for Libellule to begin going backwards. Cpt. JF chose a large slab of marshes as a shield and we greedily ate and drank sweet sugary stuff. With the extra energy we undertook the zig-zaggy path towards what we hoped would be a little sailing back to land.

As we out maneouvred several kayaks, we paddled through the marshes carefully anticipating the curves. The water level had definitely lowered since yesterday and the marshes seemed even taller. As we arrived into the last stretch, we realised the wind would not be doing any favours and we paddled through the rows of parked boats with their blubbery brown people.

We happened upon an overturned canoe and offered to help them. They declined and continued to swim with their canoe towards the shore. We landed smoothly and slide back into landlife.

West - Northwest - North - East - Northeast

2005-07-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny, partial clouds
Wind (km/h) : 30 W, 24 WSW gust 37, W 21 gust 32
Temperature : 21 - 22 °C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Double-crested cormorant, Common terns, bird of prey.

Today JF bought a nice bright yellow marine compass. After years of confusing my inner sense of direction and reality, I now know where I am!

Water levels are very low, the "beach" where we depart has gotten longer. It was around 14h00, a virile west wind blowing in our faces as we headed out towards the River. Once we reached the River however it became clear that we wouldn't be able to use the sail the wind was definitely coming straight from the west the waves pushing us towards the coast. The Montreal skyline seemed free from the usual smoggy dress of the past few weeks. The mountain and Olympic stadium clear from the standard murky yellow.

As we approached the Eastern tip of the marshes, I noticed a small piece of land. The gulls were floating skittishly on one side, I found it odd that none where on the land, until I noticed a bird of prey with what seemed to be a small swallow beneath its claws. It dragged its lunch a bit than flew away with it. I could almost hear a sigh of relief from the gulls.

We also saw an egret, which is a bit unusual in these parts. Although we wondered if herons could be albino because aside from coloring it looked and flew exactly like a heron.

As we entered the marshes, the seaweeds were thicker and the one of the channels was no longer available due to the low water level. So we turned back and took the another. Occasionnally encountering other kayakists or canoes. We stopped for lunch near a field and underneath the shade of the trees it almost felt chilly. The rustling leaves covering up the sounds of the moronic motorboats and their kind.

As we manoeuvred through the zigzagging marshes, we had to paddle hard the wind constantly pushing us to the side. However, once we regained the channel, up went the sail and we leisurely "flew" onto the beach. Not fast enough to avoid the usual remarks from the Blubbery Boat people but you can't win'em all!

Birds and bullfrogs

2005-06-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

Weather : Partly cloudy, high UV alert
Wind (km/h) : 8 NNE, calm, 9 ENE, E 13
Temperature : 27 - 30 °C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Double-crested cormorant, Common terns, 1 Black tern Swallows, Canada Warbler, some kind of thrush, "branle-queue".

At a leisurely pace we exited the channel into the St-Lawrence, debating on whether we should go up towards Ste-Helene, or not. Finally, the memory of last weekend we proceeded towards Varennes. The water level is lower and the little islands are showing more "skin" as it were, Common terns carpeting the sandy beaches.

We ended up landing at the tip of marshy land, a dark blue plastic chair oddly positioned beckoning us onwards. Fresh tracks from a deer indented on the sandy beach. JF set about freeing the unfortunate chair and it is now a part of our family. Its armrests lightly sanded from its outdoor stay its sits proudly on the terrace. It is no longer just a blue chair it is a throne that was found and brought back on Libellule's back. I can but imagine what a sight - blue sail flapping in the gentle breeze, chair strapped on the back and us contentedly going with the flow.

A large osprey flew away as we landed and verily I have never seen one so close. It looked huge with its wings spread out. Majestic, with its feathers daintily painted.

After a small lunch, we decided to explore inland... a thrush-like bird stepped out of the bushes waving one of its wings as if it were broken, it flapped and pipped as if wanting us to follow it. Not wanting to disturb it any longer and realizing that the underbrush was too thick we returned to Libellule.

As we paddled through the marshes, bullfrogs bellowed our presence along the way. As we glided past the tall marshes, I felt like Cleopatra surveying the Nile. Hey, it was hot and the UV was frying my arms and probably a part of my gray matter at this point.

There were hardly any other human beings around. Because we weren't paddling, our presence startled more than one species of birds and a true symphony rang from all around.

We came across The Black Tern. Noticing that I was having trouble adjusting my binoculars, he flew in front of me. A perfect view to marvel at his small black body that looked as if he had been dunked in a can of jet black paint and gray wings. Seemed to be much smaller than the Common terns usually encountered.

A short but sweet day to wash off some of the mental grime, urban life sometimes stains us with.

boat bah-hambug waves sun hooray

2005-06-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny and warm
Wind (km/h) : Due to discrepancies between the weather reports and what we experienced suffice it to say we started with a weak NE than eventually fizzled out.
Temperature : 21°C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Least Bittern, Double-crested cormorant, Canadian geese family (5 babes), Little ringed plover, Killdeer, Common tern, Swallows, House martins, Canada Warbler.

We had originally planned on paddling up to Île Ste-Hélène. Although the wind was weak its action coupled with the large cargo boats created agitated waves that seem to come from everywhere. This was probably the closest to up North conditions (in a very subdued manner, very!). But as we got closer to the Longueuil marina, the sound of Highway 132 and the vociferous boats got the best of my intentions and I just wanted to get the hell out of there. I don't know of anything more irritating that going out to enjoy the outdoors than western world motorized bellowing at me from all directions.

I must apologize to my paddling partner for the bitching and whining but hey, nobody's perfect. So we did an about face and returned to the peaceful (relatively) haven of the Islands. The water was level was pretty high after the week of heavy rains so we decided to see if the new route discovered a few weeks ago was still open.

The marshes were still young and short. Everytime I entered my paddle, something somewhere would disappear leaving large bubbles of water rising to the surface. More than once I almost jumped out of my skin. As the Marshes became thicker I realized that on almost all of the leaves small snails where hanging out. Dark blobs stuck on the long strands and if it had been an overcast day, I would have expected the creature of the Marsh to jump out and swallow us up. As it was a Least Bittern flew up and away, which was a treat this is the 2nd time we have seen one. Alot of plovers seemed to have taken residence in this part, their tiny chattering cursing us away.

Pretty soon, the marshes were too thick to push onwards and we retraced out steps. Glad to have returned to open waters, I laughed at the goose bumps slowly receding on my arms. After all, the largest predator in that area had to be us (I hope!).

As JF tried to coax some wind into the sail, we slowly floated through the channel between the Islands. No boats, barely a soul besides us. Apart from the metal birds that flew overhead the area seemed timeless.

We slowly made our way back to land. Returning to Montreal amidst the traffic I could still feel the gently sway of the water and the sun smiling on the waves.

A grand day, friends, a grand day!

A new place

2005-06-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

Weather : Partly cloudy
Wind (km/h) : 17 SSW, 15 SW
Temperature : 28 - 30°C

Location : Île Ste-Thérèse, Varennes, Québec, Canada

Small swallows, Herons, Geese, common terns

Another hot, humid day filled with pollen and smog in the city of Montréal. Since Libellule was already on the car. Our departure was quick and smooth. Today we would venture out. Although we had already paddled in Varennes it was in April and large ice cubes prevented our crossing towards the Island. We departed from Parc de la Commune. How very different in summer, trees dressed, old people undressed looking out onto the pier watching boats arriving and departing.

The St-Lawrence current is stronger here and once we turned the Island a strong breeze blew in our faces. Montréal could barely be seen veiled by a thick sheet of pollenized air. Saw a huge, slender but long, fish jump completely out of the water.

As we paddled onwards, it was interesting to compare conditions with the Islands of Boucherville. The boats we encountered were going alot faster and the people seemed more unfriendly not responding to our greetings and looking at us as if we were insects.

There was a community that lived there from 1662 to around 1940. In the beginning it was owned by lords through the Seigneural System in effect at that time. In 1854, the system was abolished and all the inhabitants became landowners.

Apparently, they crossed over daily, even in winter via chariots and regular omnibuses. They sold chunks of ice to the villages of Pointe-aux-Trembles or Varennes. They also sold their surplus of food: milk, cream, butter, poultry, flour, etc. In 1803, 20 families resided on the Island, 120 people.

The arrival of the St-Lawrence Seaway and the systematic dumping of waste water changed that way of life. Ice breakers regularly broke up the ice to allow the maritime traffic to continue during the long winters. Waste water elevated the temperature of the water making it dangerous to cross over. The river is periodically dredged to make the middle deeper, allowing larger ships to travel. This operation unbalances the amount of water, less along the coastline and more in the middle. It also stirs up sediments sometimes (most times?) containing toxic pollutants into circulation. On the south west tip of Ste-Thérèse Island, you can find residus from the dredging.

We landed on a small island near the tip of Ste-Thérèse and looked out towards the Boucherville Islands. A totally different perspective.

Today was the first time JF could try his revised sail on the "new" Libellule. I must be honest, I was very glad we had it, yup, that's a First. The ride home was a breeze, 30-35 minutes were shaved to a bare 15 minutes resting and enjoying the scenery.

We're back...

2005-06-11T18:19:00.000-07:00

Weather : Mainly sunny, Haze
Wind (km/h) : 13 SW, 9 SW, 18 SW
Temperature : 31 - 33°C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Cave swallows, Herons, Canadian Geese, 1 black tern, common terns, double-crested cormorants, kildeers, one-ringed plovers, 1 groundhog

It has been almost a month since the last outing. However, the spell is broken. As Montreal melted under the smog and oppressive heat, we paddled leisurely on the fresh St-Lawrence, even if the temperatures were above the 30's, just putting a toe or two in the water quickly refreshed body and mind...

We irritated the colony of common terns, they swooped, swerved and screeched at us to get the hell out, immediately. Their tiny ugly voices contrasting with their beautiful shape and colors.

The water levels had decreased sharply from a few weeks ago, and on several occasions the sand bars rubbed the belly of the kayak. As we entered the marshlands, there were plenty of dead fish floating around and the stench was quite strong. Don't know if it is the heat or the algae that is the cause. The marshes are a short and green, and all of last years grass has disappeared.

White snow pollen everywhere. Orange boat people.

20 km in 2hrs and 40 minutes

2005-05-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

Weather : Rain
Wind (km/h) : 20 NE, 15 NE, 17 NE
Temperature : 10°C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Event : Le défi des 3 îles (Festival du plein air)

An exhilarating and painful experience. Departure at 10h sharp, a solo kayak slick as toothpick. One duo model like ours expect much younger. With hindsight it was just as well that it wasn't sunny, because there was no time to drink. Straight paddling with no stops for the whole race. Pity really, because I had never seen or heard so many different species of birds. Chanced upon black terns, regular terns, kildeers, greater yellowlegs, geese, ducks...

Although the pain in my neck and shoulder was excrutiating the thrill of being in my first race overruled. Each stroke had to be perfect. My partner, occasionally letting out original lines such as "come on, give it your 110%", "you can do, I know you can". Exasperated and in pain, all I could say where poetic obscenities that I hope I can publish one day.

The last stretch was obviously the hardest, dehydrated and hungry, the kayaks in front of us were just the impetus needed to summon up the last of the energy reserves. And so repeating different mantras, we passed them and glided into the finish line. 2 hours and 40 minutes.

There were 3 categories : solo (man), solo (woman), duo.

I don't recall the numbers for the solos but there were 8 duos, 3 of which never finished the race. We came in 4th place or as my partner mentioned the first man/woman couple. The other duos finished in a little over 2 hours and they were paddled by strapping young lads.

As we waited for the final ceremony, we wandered about the outdoors kiosks. In this weather you will only meet those serious about their outdoors activities.

In one stand, a beautiful American Kestrel was on display with a young drone repeating the speeches of wildlife preservation. The first time I ever saw this bird was at the Old Port of Montreal. It was perched high above and checking out a swarm of sparrows that were eating down below. This bird is also called Sparrow hawk and is the smallest in the falcon family. The black stripes on its face give the impression of a warrior artist's work.

She put the Kestrel away and brought out a beautiful Snowy Owl "Harfang des Neiges". Absolutely amazing, huge yellow eyes that are apparently almost as large as human eyes. Their eyeballs have no muscles which explains their ability to turn their head a whooping 270 degrees... now that must be really useful! Found out that this is Quebec's national bird. It is also associated to a cheap wine available at corner stores everywhere in québec.

The other stands were the usual mercantile and marketing strategies associated with outdoor activities.

JEEP was the sponsor for this festival. The irony about that leaves me speechless. Enjoy the outdoors with a JEEP! pull-heez...

100 lbs of fibreglass love

2005-05-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

Weather : Sunny (sun halo) with hazy cloud coverage
Wind (km/h) : 31 NE, 26 NE, 31 E
Temperature : 15 - 16°C

Location : Parc national des îles-de-Boucherville, Québec, Canada

Small swallows, Herons, Geese, Small woodpecker, Fox, groundhogs

We have entered into a race that is to take place next weekend during the "Festival de plein air" at the Parc des îles de Boucherville. Today was paddling practice. It was also the day to test the wheels, JF had constructed to aid in the carrying of our beloved fibreglass beast.

As soon as we managed to place Libellule (aka. Dragonfly) upon the wheels, it became very clear, very quickly, that they wouldn't survive. The aluminium structure bent like butter melting in a frying pan. In so doing, the sail support that JF had mounted cracked. Not a very auspicious beginning. But when you love something, you forgive and move on. So, we coaxed, cajoled, careened & carried the 100 lbs of fibreglass to the water.

All that was quickly forgotten once we were afloat. Our baby "beluga" glides on water, slicing through the wind created waves. Even though we were against the albeit feeble current, the wind waves pushed us in the right direction.

The water level was higher than our previous outing. The place we had visited last time was even more flooded. The trees were no longer on the waterfront but in the waterfront.

Watched the sun rays smiling on the water. The trees slowly getting dressed. The birds getting busy.

Unfortunately, the boat people are also waking up, their smelly fumes and loud engines rivalling the sounds of natural spring.

All in all, we paddled for about 4 hours, with occasionnal sprints.

As we left the park, a red fox darted out in front of the car.

For those interested in the specs: Libellule is a Current Design - Libra XT. A little over 21 feet and 31 inches wide, weighing a little under 100 lbs. Ideal for long distances and choppy waters.

A new Season, a "new" kayak

2005-04-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

Weather : beautiful = sunny with occasional clouds
Wind : South (15 km/h), southwest (20 km/h), West (28 km/h)
Temperature : 18 - 22 Â°C

Location : Parc national des Ã®les-de-Boucherville, QuÃ©bec, Canada

Small swallows, Herons, Geese, Small woodpecker, Frog, spiders, insects

Water level extremely high, sparse vegetation the marsh is dry and old. With the water levels so high, a new path towards the River from the marshlands. If it doesn't rain soon, route will become dried land once again. Never saw this path before because of the vegetation. We landed and proceeded to investigate this unknown territory. As I stepped out of the kayak my rubber boots sunk into the muddy earth hidden by the thick blanket of dried marshes.

Geese nervously trumpeted out their warnings, small swallows dove through the air. A ballet against the wind. Surprised by their early arrival.

Naked trees, visible strong trunks reaching out towards the sky. Their branches clapping "Spring is coming!" in the strong breeze.

Flocks of Baby "mouton blancs" rolling towards the East at a steady pace.

This was awesome, no tiresome boats or their people.