By far the biggest hazard on this trip is paddling alone and I strongly believe that I am prepared.

Emergency contacts:

• VHF channel 16
• *16 on mobile in Atlantic Canada takes you directly to the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Halifax
• 911
• Coast Guard
  • Toll-free: 1-800-565-1582
  • Telephone: 902-427-8200
• Personal

In terms of geography, there are areas on this trip where there are high cliffs and it is impossible to land. Due to the positioning of the island in St. Lawrence Bay, there is very little swell on PEI and that greatly increases one’s peace of mind regarding unexpected water behaviour. However there are spots where dangerous surf can form that would make landing/launching very difficult or impossible. Also sometimes the tide line is very hard to spot and setting the tent for the night is a constant worry.

There are extensive beaches, dunes and sand bars where in case of an electric storm there is not much hiding available. Luckily there are not many thunderstorms in PEI during the months of June and early July. Squalls could form however anytime.

There are areas with little or no cell coverage. The VHS goes line-of-sight only.

Navigation information and aids:

• Environment Canada
  • Canadian Hydrographic Service printed charts
  • Marine weather forecast Atlantic Maritimes for Northumberland Strait and Gulf of Magdalens
  • VHF maritime weather channels
  • Tide stations
• Windy
• Windfinder
• GPS maps
• Navionics
• Google Maps

Carry the food for the entire trip and replenish the water along the way.

If for any reason I need to cut the trip short, transportation is arranged.

The float plan. Left with someone that knows me and the way I paddle. I trust that, if anything, they could analyze the local conditions and predict my actions.