Sea Kayak - Deception Pass

Round trip was from Bowman Bay, and winds throughout the day were minimal.  We rode the flood in the Pass to the south side, to the area around the “Room of Doom,” and played briefly in the eddy there.  We estimated the current was around 3 kts., a moderate level which was appropriate for the paddlers in our group at different skill levels.  We noted the whirlpools there, which were to be avoided.  All had experienced Deception Pass previously, but some were still relatively new to crossing eddy lines.  We paddled to and circumnavigated Strawberry Island, had lunch at Cornet Bay, and then paddled out on the building ebb to the area opposite the  north side of Pass Island.  Predicted max ebb in the Pass was 5.4 knots, a moderate level, and the quality of the current is significantly smoother than the Room of Doom.   We stayed and played, crossing eddies, including ferry crossings and even some surf play in mid channel.  There were some inevitable capsizes, but rescues were handled smoothly and efficiently.  Some of the more experienced  paddlers entertained the rest with some impressive maneuvers.  Everyone appeared to be enjoying the day, in currents and conditions that offered something for everyone.