Seattle & Region - Lake Union
Kayaking Seattle’s Inner Waters
A warm Seattle September Sunday along the shore of Lake Union, southwest of the University of Washington Campus. A great day for kayaking!
I parked (free on Sundays and Holidays) on Portage Bay’s Boat Street (1), across from Fritz Hedges Park. Along the sidewalk numerous water enthusiasts were inflating a variety of paddle boards or kayaks. My destination was the Agua Verde Paddle Club where I was greeted by friendly and efficient employees. After quickly registering, signing an insurance waiver, answering a few questions about prior kayaking experience and listening to short instructions, I was aboard a sleek kayak and paddling north under the University Bridge (2) into the 2.5 mile long Lake Union.
Lake Union, Seattle
A moderate breeze from the south rippled the water surface. Lake Union can experience lots of boat traffic, but today there were only a few, motoring slowly under the bridge, observing the 7-knot speed limit. The historic and iconic Virginia V. passed by, sharing the waterway with a seaplane motoring south before turning and rising at speed into the sky.
It is recommended to paddle counterclockwise on both waterways to follow boating traffic patterns, and paddle along shorelines to avoid approaching seaplanes. :)
Seaplane, Lake Union, Seattle, Washington
The shorelines don’t disappoint. Public parks, restaurants, commercial businesses, moorages and houseboats of all shapes and sizes. It is truly a world apart, and one that can be viewed at eye and water level.
Given more time, my kayaking journey could have continued west past Gasworks Park (3) and under the Ballard Bridge (4) to Fisherman’s Terminal (5), or east under the Montlake Bridge (6) to the placid waters of the Washington Park Arboretum (7).
As I paddled slowly, I looked up at the various bridges, thankful to be on the calm water and not in the congested lines of traffic.
Speaking of bridges, all three (Montlake, University and Fremont) are draw bridges, built to accommodate tall ships. During my return voyage the University Bridge opened to allow passage of a tall masted sailboat.
Lake Union Bridge, Seattle, Washington
**Gear Up: Essential Tips to make the most of your kayaking adventures on Portage Bay:
Go between May and September for the calmest weather.
Rent or bring your own kayak, paddles, and life jackets.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, waterproof camera, and consider bringing a dry bag for your phone, wallet, and keys. [Agua Verde offers a dry bag as part of a kayak rental package.]
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet in. Moisture-wicking layers are suggested and on cooler days a fleece jacket or an extra sweatshirt is a good idea.
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