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Waterproof bags for food,
clothing, and valuables are usually provided by tour operators.
Cameras are welcome and there are great opportunities for pictures,
but you take cameras etc. at your own risk. Wrapping expensive
items tightly in a trash bag could give some added protection. Following is information which explains and expands on the list above: On any day trip operated out of Bar Harbor or for that matter out of any of the towns on Mt. Desert Island, you'll be kayaking somewhere around Mt. Desert Island which is where Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are located. The water never gets above 60 degrees, and you will have to step in about a foot of that cold water to enter your boat. You may get the seat of your boat wet while climbing in, and you may get hit with some occasional spray while paddling.
Clothing: While
your mode of dress will not be particularly important on warm A nylon shell, waterproof jacket, or paddling jacket are handy in case the weather acts up. You might want to bring along some additional warm clothing. Polypropylene or fleece tops and bottoms are the recommended materials, but if they are not available consider a normal sweat shirt and sweat pants. Like polypropylene and fleece, wool clothing provides some warmth even when wet. I always carry enough extra clothing with me to enjoy paddling no matter what the temperature or weather conditions. Mom taught me that, and she didn't paddle.
Food and Water: There's a tendency to get dehydrated
when paddling in the sun and wind. Once you feel
Sun: The sun not only gets you from above when you're paddling, but it reflects off the water from below. A hat has already been recommended. In addition, you will want to wear sun glasses. Sun screen for any exposed skin areas is a must. Don't forget something which will protect your lips.
Cameras: There will be wonderful picture opportunities
when you're kayaking
Waterproof Bag: Though the tour operator will probably supply a dry bag, but take some extra precautions. A totally waterproof bag is necessary to protect your extra clothing, food, and valuables. I pack many of my more valuable items in zip-lock sandwich bags, plastic bottles, or other plastic containers before putting them in my dry bag. Dry bags may develop pin holes or worse, and don't depend on the storage compartments in kayaks to keep your valuables dry. Kayak storage compartments are seldom watertight. Be safe not sorry.
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sunny days during
July and August, you will want to be prepared for adverse conditions.
Even in cooler weather, sunburn is a distinct possibility. I
wear a broad brimmed hat to protect my face and neck from the
sun and rain whichever the case may be. A hat with at least a
visor is recommended. Wear a t-shirt or other light-weight shirt
for a starter layer. That and a nylon bathing suit may be all
you need. Light cotton pants can be substituted (shorts recommended). Don't wear
blue jeans.They hold water
and dry slowly. On a cold day, they can be extremely uncomfortable.
Sandals, aqua shoes, or wet suit boots are all okay on your feet.
An old pair of sneakers, that you don't mind getting wet with
salt water, make a good substitute. Consider that you will be
walking on sharp rocks and slippery surfaces during your time
on land.
thirsty, it is probably already too
late to catch up on your fluid intake. Minimally, you may end
up with a headache, and be drinking all night to catch up. Bring
along plenty of water and/or juice, and be sure to drink it even
if you don't think you need it. No alcoholic beverages, please. If you're
paddling through lunch, you'll want to bring some food with you.
Even on shorter trips, you'll probably stop to stretch and enjoy
the beauty. A nice snack makes it even more enjoyable.
. However,
a disposable camera might be the best idea. If you do decide
to bring expensive camera equipment, you do so at your own risk.
Wrapping your camera equipment in plastic bags before you place
it in the dry bag will give it some added protection.