Question 1

What should I wear to practice?

Accepted Answer

We recommend wearing weather-appropriate performance apparel to ensure safety and comfort during outrigger canoe activities. Start with moisture-wicking base layers that keep you dry by drawing sweat away from your skin. Depending on the weather, bring a wind- and rain-resistant jacket to protect against variable conditions. A hat, sunblock and sunglasses are advisable to shield you from sun exposure when needed. For footwear, sandals or neoprene booties are best suited to the water environment, providing grip and quick drying. Avoid jeans, sneakers, and cotton t-shirts as they retain water, dry slowly, and can cause discomfort or chafing while paddling. Following these guidelines helps you stay focused on paddling and enjoy your time at the club safely.

Question 2

What equipment does BBOP provide?

Accepted Answer

We provide for borrow paddles, life jackets and of course the canoes!  While we supply this equipment, we strongly recommend bringing your own water bottle or hydration system to stay properly hydrated throughout your canoeing session. Proper hydration is important for both performance and safety during physical activity on the water.

Question 3

I’m new, what can I expect at the first practice?

Accepted Answer

BBOP practices take place at the Community Boating Center, a small‑boat recreation facility located in Fairhaven. Parking is available in the gravel area just outside the fenced boatyard. Our canoes are stored inside the boatyard, along with a large, locked shed where we keep shared gear such as club paddles and PFDs.

The boatyard is an active, shared space with sailing clinics, kayakers, SUP lessons, and fishing boats frequently using the same ramp. With our long OC‑6 canoes and large group size, BBOP takes up a lot of room, please be mindful, patient, and respectful as we share the space with other users.
 
When you arrive, you’ll typically see paddlers gathered around the canoes chatting. The coach will identify new paddlers, confirm everyone has the appropriate equipment, and announce lineups, including seat assignments for each canoe. The group will then work together to move the canoes to the water. This process can feel a bit chaotic at first, and it takes time to learn where to stand and how to help, don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it! Our official launching protocol can be found here.

OC‑6 canoes are heavy and awkward to move due to the outrigger (“ama”). About six paddlers lift the canoe together off the rack and onto a sturdy two‑wheeled cart, guided by a steerer or experienced paddler who leads the lift with a verbal count. The canoe is then rolled to the ramp, floated, lifted off the cart, and the cart returned to storage. Paddlers board the canoe in order, starting with seat 1. The same process is followed in reverse when returning from practice.
Our coaches are dedicated to working with paddlers of all experience levels, focusing on both technique and fitness in a supportive, team‑oriented environment.

Question 4

Can I try a practice before joining the club?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Contact bbopmembership@gmail.com to arrange a free orientation paddle. New paddler orientations are held Mondays at 5:30 PM for those without prior outrigger experience, and you’ll have the opportunity to try up to three free Monday paddles before joining the club.

Question 5

What if I can't make all the practices?

Accepted Answer

That’s okay. BBOP paddles up to seven days a week, and you’re welcome to attend any practice that fits your schedule. Competitive practices are more structured and may paddle continuously, Paddlers who plan to race are expected to attend practices regularly, especially in the weeks leading up to a race.

Question 6

What if I can't swim?

Accepted Answer

Safety is critical, and swimming skills can come into play. A personal flotation device (PFD) must be worn or immediately accessible at all times in case of a capsize (“huli”). Coaches emphasize safety at every practice, and paddlers should communicate any concerns so appropriate support can be provided.

Question 7

Will I get wet?

Accepted Answer

Probably.  Rain, waves, perspiration can all be factors.

Question 8

Is it safe?

Accepted Answer

BBOP takes safety seriously. Our coaches and safety officers have decades of paddling experience in extreme conditions on Bellingham and all over the world.
 
We require all paddlers to wear good-fitting PFD’s (life jackets, Personal Flotation Devices) and we have our own to lend if members don’t have one.  Board, coaches and steerers meet regularly to review club safety protocols. We carry liability insurance for every member provided by Paddlesport Risk Management, LLC.

Question 9

What facilities are available on the site?

Accepted Answer

There are 6 Restrooms - 2 ADA accessible and 4 standard all equipped with showers.  A locking shed for gear, and a water fountain for drinking and filling water bottles.  There are hoses to rinse gear and large rinse barrels with an enzyme solution to rinse neoprene booties, gloves, PFD's if you choose.

Question 10

Can you give me some paddling basics?

Accepted Answer

On your first day, coaches will cover everything you need to know. An OC‑6 canoe has six paddlers, with the steersperson in seat 6. Paddlers in seats 1, 3, and 5 start on the left, while seats 2 and 4 start on the right; every 10–12 strokes, seat 3 calls “hut” to cue a side change. For more on paddling basics and stroke technique, check out our instructional resources here

Question 11

Will I get to race?  Do I have to race?

Accepted Answer

BBOP offers two adult paddling programs: recreational and competitive.  Those interested in racing OC6's and undergoing race training will join the competitive crew, with race line-ups determined by the Head Coach. BBOP primarily competes against other clubs in the PNWORCA paddling association. You do not have to race to be a BBOP member.  Recreational practices are another option for those who choose not to race but still enjoying practicing outrigger canoe paddling.

Question 12

How do I sign up for practices?

Accepted Answer

Only paid members have access to sign up for practices through TeamSnap.

Question 13

How do I attend practices if I’m new and just trying it out?

Accepted Answer

If you’re new, email bbopmembership@gmail.com to arrange your first trial paddle. If you’d like to return for up to two additional trial paddles, coordinate directly with the Novice coaches who run Monday practices and let them know you plan to attend the following week.

Frequently Asked Questions