Staying safe on the water is about levels of experience and where you are paddling. While determining your level please also review the paddling requirements for the Waterways around Deas Island 

Reminder: Small boat orientation is required for all new members. A new member who is an experienced small boat paddler must be accompanied by an experienced Delta member until they are familiar with the local paddling area and the hazards that may be present.

Solo paddling: areas 2,3,4 are isolated, and paddlers are not likely to find other boats or walkers nearby to lend assistance in an emergency.  Only experienced paddlers, who are competent swimmers, familiar with the areas and aware of current weather and water conditions, should consider solo paddling.

Novice Paddler

OC6

A person who is new to paddling outrigger canoe.  A novice must learn proper paddling technique, how to paddle safely, and must successfully complete a huli drill. A novice paddler must also become familiar with the paddling area; Deas Slough, Ladner Reach, etc.

OC1/2

An OC1/2 novice may be an experienced OC6 paddler new to small boats, or a new paddler. A novice must learn proper paddling technique, how to paddle safely, and must successfully complete a huli drill. A novice paddler must also become familiar with the paddling area; Deas Slough, Ladner Reach, etc.

All small boat paddlers must be checked out in their small boat by an experienced Delta Club member.  

Experienced paddler

OC 6 and OC1/2

An experienced paddler has successfully completed a huli drill in each type of canoe they paddle, can easily paddle to the channel marker and back (approximately 5 km), and is familiar with water conditions and hazards in Areas 1 and 2.