Paddling’s always a pleasure, but wouldn’t it be nicer to paddle for a purpose? That’s the big idea behind the annual Kayak Regatta, the on-water fund-raiser for Rippleffect. This year’s Regatta is scheduled for Aug. 18-21 on Penobscot Bay.

Paddling with a purpose: Participants in the 2004 Rippleffect Kayak Regatta navigate Penobscot Bay in the fog.
Both photos courtesy Cris Edward Johnson

Kayakers will launch from Castine and cross the bay to Warren Island. Warren Island, part of the Islesboro group, is an utterly unique state park that caters exclusively to water-borne adventurers. Another camp-out is on Butter Island, then the Regatta returns to Castine on Sunday.

Rippleffect events coordinator Sasha Johnson notes that there’s a motor launch for support. It will transport food and tents plus musical, massage and yoga artists. A lobster bake is planned.

Feeding hungry paddlers is part of the plan for the 2005 Kayak Regatta, slated for Aug. 18-21 on Penobscot Bay.

Participants -- up to 35 in some years -- need to raise $1,000 to join. Money goes to Rippleffect, a Portland-based non-profit which provides adventure-based programming to Maine youth via sea kayaking.

Check out their website for details on the program and the Kayak Regatta at www.rippleffect.net. Or call 791-7870.

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