CLAPS - Something New Paddle Event Attempt II Event Cache

Typical view of Armand Bayou at night.

If you are unaware of the CLAPS caches and how they work or if you have never paddled the CLAPS caches before, please read the cache page for the first in the series HERE: 01 CLAPS 2022 Edition.

This is at least the 10th CLAPS Nighttime Paddle Event. The moon should be full, helping to light our way.

Paddling? If you wish, light up your yak or canoe and decorate it with whatever festive thing you can think of. Bring it to Bay Area Park and prepare to launch for a parade on the water. We'll paddle under the moonlight and experience the bayou like few other people have.

This event launches from and returns to BAY AREA PARK.
Have a UV flashlight? Bring it!

This event is open to everyone! If you paddle we'll have special CLAPS night-paddle mini coin for you if you have not already received one at a previous event.

We will begin meeting at BAY AREA PARK around 5:15 p.m. (+/-) but note: boaters will launch promptly at 6:00 p.m. and then start paddling along their chosen route. Please arrive early enough to be ready for departure! You can return whenever you'd like (but note, you're on your own if you leave the group -- please use the buddy method if you break off), but the plan is to be back no later than 9:30 p.m. so everyone can load their gear and leave the park by 10:00 p.m. when it closes. This event officially runs from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and you don't need to go kayaking to attend this event.

For those planning on kayaking: paddlers will determine where they are going once they are there, based on several factors, including: tide levels, wind, weather conditions, number (and craziness) of participants, etc.

Cautions for all participants: There are risks involved in getting out on the water. Please read and heed the warnings on all of the CLAPS cache pages, which will give you more information on the area, including warnings and recommendations.

Things you need to consider and consider bringing specifically for this event
if you're joining us on the water:

• You will get wet, and possibly soaked, at this event.
• It may be cold. It may not be cold when you leave. It may become cold on the water. Bring appropriate clothing so you're not left in the cold.
• Most people will decorate their kayaks with lights and other festive holiday decorations. Don't be that one person that doesn't! If you are renting (or just attending and not paddling), decorate yourself instead! The dorkier and more over-the-top the better!
• Bring something to drink. Even though it may not be hot you may get thirsty. Consider an insulated cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, too!
• Jackets, blankets, towels, and (shudder) even Snuggies are recommended! (Not really. Snuggies are never recommended. Wear at your own risk. You'll likely be photographed and shamed on social media.)
• Wear clothes and shoes you don't mind getting wet, muddy, and possibly stained.
• Wear a PFD / Lifejacket.
• Wear glow sticks so we can see you at night. Pretend this is a kayak rave.
• Bring a flashlight. Or a spotlight. Or both. Headlamps work great, just turn it off during the picture (see group photo from a prior night event, below) and don't look at other people while paddling.
• Bring a change of clothes in case you get wet / cold. There are real restrooms at GZ and you can change clothes there easily for a comfortable (and clean) ride home.

If you don't have a boat or are a new paddler, post a note here ASAP! We may be able to hook you up. Or, you may find someone with which you can share a ride in a canoe or a tandem yak. We will do our best to help you get out there!

Is this is your first time paddling? Don't worry! After 15 minutes on the water you'll have it down and feel like a pro. Don't let your first-time status stop you! Besides, it's dark and nobody can see your mistakes.