Centennial Canoe

What to Bring on Your Trip to the San Juan Islands

WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING

Please bring clothing for both warm and cool weather. Generally, cotton and denim are not preferred because the fabric will not wick moisture and does not insulate if it becomes damp.  For rainy/cool weather: Dress in layers. For your upper body, wear a synthetic top such as poly pro or Capilene next to your skin. Layer with a wool shirt or synthetic top (for warmth) then add wind or rain gear. Wear loose fitting pants you can roll up at the ankles so you don't get wet.

For sunny weather: Protect yourself from the sun. Wear a lightweight long or short-sleeved shirt and shorts. Wear a billed hat for sun protection. Again, make sure you wear shoes/sandals that are ok to get wet!

* Suggest you keep these items easily accessible.

  • Bio-degradable soap
  • Flashlight
  • Fleece pants & warm top
  • Jacket
  • Long pants & shirts
  • Paddling gloves to prevent blisters or for warmth
  • Personal toiletries  
  • *Rain jacket & pants (waterproof)
  • Secure sandals with neoprene socks; or aqua socks; or neoprene boots while on the water
  • Sleeping bag with a trash bag liner & pad (rentals available)
  • Small first aid kit
  • Small towel (quick-drying is best)
  • *Sunglasses with strap
  • *Sun hat
  • *Sunscreen
  • Tennies or boots while in camp
  • *Water bottle  
  • Wool or neoprene hat & wool & cotton socks

OPTIONAL GEAR

  • Additional dry bag (small) for day gear
  • Bandana
  • Binoculars  
  • Camera & small dry bag or zip lock bags
  • Carabineers to clip gear to boat deck
  • Insect repellent
  • Pocketknife (do not carry on plane)
  • Polypro top & underwear
  • Rope for clothesline
  • Shorts (quick drying is best)
  • Snacks
  • Swimsuit
  • Your own tent (1 is supplied )
  • T-shirt
  • Urine bottle while in the boat or tent
  • Wet wipes
  • Ziploc baggies

DON’T BRING

  • Coolers
  • Camp chairs
  • Jewelry
  • Pets
  • Firearms
  • Unprotected, expensive cameras; disposable cameras are an alternative.

WHAT WE PROVIDE

  • 1 tent (either 1- or 2-person tent)
  • All campsites have pit-toilets
  • Cooking equipment
  • Complimentary wine with dinner
  • Drinking water
  • Dry bags (2) for your gear: size 9.5” x 20” & 7.5” x 13”
  • Meals
  • Rescue equipment & first aid kit
  • Sea Kayaks/Paddles/Lifejackets

As your comfort is very important to us, you are welcome to bring any other items that you feel are essential, but not the kitchen sink!  Keep in mind that what you bring must be transported in your sea kayak with group food and equipment. You will be required to carry your personal gear to your tent site.  Helping to carry company equipment is optional but appreciated by your guides.

You’re welcome to bring your own tent. However, either a two-person tent (5.5’ x 7’) or a single-person tent (81” x 34”) comes with the cost of your trip and will be given to you at the put-in depending on your needs. Notify Centennial Canoe15 days prior to your trip if you’d like to rent a sleeping bag ($5/night camping) and/or mattress pad ($5/night camping).  Sleeping bags should be light weight and easily compressed. No larger than 11” by 17” i.e., not bulky!

Any luggage that you do not want to bring on the kayak trip may be securely stored at the outfitter’s offices at no charge.  If you will be returning to your same hotel after the conclusion of your trip, they may also be willing to store it for you.