Winter Paddling

From October 1 to the end of March, these rules are in effect:

1. All individuals must wear on their person while on the water a full Personal Flotation Device (PFD) approved by Transport Canada; inflatable PFD’s are not approved for winter paddling at the Lotus Sports Club.

2. Paddlers using an OC1, OC2 or SUP outside of regular scheduled practices must be certified by a coach or identified as meeting certification requirements; in the case of an OC2, both people must be certified for its use outside of practice.

3. Daylight boundaries for winter paddling are east to Port Moody, north up Indian Arm and west to the Second Narrows Bridge. It is illegal to pass under the Second Narrows Bridge; this is dangerous and the Coast Guard will issue fines.

4. The Kinder Morgan fence extends quite far into the inlet. There are huge currents and standing waves that occur frequently in that area as well as in the portion of the inlet that extends to the Second Narrows Bridge. Paddlers should not approach with 40 meters (three OC6 lengths) of the fence.

5. When only one or two paddlers are going out on the water, information regarding the paddling plan must be left with another responsible individual. Check in with this person upon returning to the clubhouse.

6. There must be communication capability for crews or groups; one person must carry a fully charged cell phone in a waterproof case.

7. Paddlers must wear appropriate clothing that is suitable for changing weather and water conditions and have a change of clothes at the clubhouse. A paddler must be prepared and dress as if he/she will have to be in the water and swim.

8. Paddling is not permitted when there is a small craft warning, if there is any thunder or lightning, or if fog limits your ability to safely navigate or to be seen.

9. Alcohol consumption and use of illicit drugs before or during paddling are strictly prohibited.

10. Paddling after dark in the Burrard Inlet is prohibited unless you are participating in a community or a club sanctioned event with strict adherence to rules and regulations (please see “Winter Evening Paddling Rules”).