Welcome to WAKE (Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts). We're a non-profit social kayaking organization based in Bellingham, WA, open to any adult who wants to paddle in the Pacific Northwest. Our focus is sea kayaking, however, we do have many whitewater kayakers as members. Because paddling conditions in the Pacific Northwest are typically cold and fickle, WAKE emphasizes safety in all sponsored events: trainings, occasional day paddles and trips, and monthly meetings with speakers addressing all aspects of paddling.

• Meetings: We meet every third Tuesday of the month, September through June, 7:30 PM, downstairs at the Bellingham Library in downtown Bellingham. The public is always welcome to attend.
• Membership: Membership is $25 per household. Fees help pay for WAKE trainings, events, and insurance. To find out more, visit our Membership page.  

Please feel free to attend our meetings and check out our schedule of events. Note: Participants in WAKE events must have signed a Release of Liability Waiver prior to participating. Some events (e.g. the Symposium) are open to WAKE members only.  The current form became available in April, 2010, and is available in the "Documents" section of this website.

WAKE members have signed the Release with their registration and do not have to sign again until they renew their membership.  Non-members must sign the Release prior to each event and provide the form to the event initiator/leader.

  ANNOUNCEMENTS:  

Aug 5, Aug 14 & Sept 4-6: The "Introduction to Kayak Camping” class has been organized and will be held on the dates listed.  This class is intended for those wanting to learn about kayak camping and will combine a classroom session, a "practice packing” day paddle, and a 2 night out overnight camping trip in the area islands over the Labor Day weekend.
 
Space is limited to 12 students, and all students must have available to them a full sized (15’ +) sea kayak, with hatches, as well as suitable camping gear.  Cost is $25, which covers course materials, insurance, and access to a private campground on Lummi Island’s west side.  Checks should be made out to WAKE, and registration is due by 7/29/2010.  With your check, please fill out the attached form.
 
The class is a joint project of WAKE and Elakah Expeditions.
 
If you have questions, please address them to info@wakekayak.org.

 WATCH THIS SPACE FOR NEWS OF UPCOMING PADDLES! 

August 14-15: Matia Island Overnight

Launch 8:30 am 8/14 from Gooseberry Point, arrive Matia approx. noon; 8 mile crossing. Return 8/15; This is a Level IV-B rated trip: long crossing with possible strong currents,winds, and rough water. Maximum group size: 6. MUST dress for immersion!   Need to be able to maintain 3.5 knot pace.

Cost: $12 per campsite.  Contact: Gerardo Andaluz 360-220-0215, gerardo.andaluz@comcast.net