Trip Preparation:

 There is much to see and do year round on the Guale Coast.  Each season offers it's own adventures and activities.  Look at what activities you want, then consider the best time of year to do them.  For example, significant distance hiking (particularly if your carrying a load of photo equipment) is generally much more pleasant during late fall thru early spring.  Cool temperatures and no bugs.  On the other hand, most people don't like swim or wade in mid 50's water temps.  Try summer for these activities.

Here are some general guidelines for things you will need to make your trip comfortable. If you have any specific questions, please call or e-mail us. We'll be happy to discuss preparations that will make your trip a pleasant one.

For those of you not familiar with the coastal environment, it's great for the critters that make it their home, but it can be pretty tough on us humans. A few bits of equipment will make your trip comfortable and enjoyable. One note for parents with children 10 yrs and younger. Georgia regulations require that they wear a life preserver whenever the vessel is underway. Basically unless the boat is tied to the dock or anchored, children must wear a PFD while aboard. When you make reservations, let us know the number of children under 11, and the weight range for each. (0-30 lbs, 30-60 lbs, or 60-90 lbs) We will provide the appropriately sized PFD for each child.

In general motion sickness is not a problem. Many trips stay in sheltered waters of creeks and don't encounter significant wave action. The ride is much like a car on a slightly bumpy road. Trips over open ocean or wide bodies of water can experience a more bouncy ride. Significant boat "rolling" will generally only be experienced while fishing in sounds or on the ocean. If you are prone to motion sickness, check with your doctor for prescription or over the counter medication that can reduce the symptoms.

Stowage space is limited on boats. Generally one can pack for a daytrip using a small day pack  or a soft  duffel of about 1ft diameter by about 2ft long per guest.  If trip plans including island hiking, a day pack is preferred.  It can be used to carry necessities for your off boat excursions.  Water and cold drinks are provided with your tour price and limited cold storage is available in ice chests.

The level of physical exertion varies with specific activities on trips.  In boat activities require little effort (photography, dolphin watching, sight seeing, etc.).  Many places where we hike and beach comb require beaching or anchoring the boat and disembarking with no dock facilities.  This requires and increased level of agility and effort.  Two excellent island exploring sites (Warsaw and Blackbeard) do have dock facilities. Hiking in the summer can add additional heat stress to your body.  During your trip planning, consider the level of activity you want to undertake. 

All Season Equipment:

o Sun Screen. On a boat, you get the normal sky UV plus a significant additional dose reflected from the water. I recommend a minimum of SPF 30. Reapply every couple of hours and you won't get lobersterized.

o Sun Glasses. These need to specifically block UV. Base tint on personal preference.

o Broad Brimmed Hat.  Waterproof is good since it can double as a rain hat. A tie-down/chin strap is desirable.

o Light Weight Rain Suit. One can get chilled even in summer from a cold rain.  Your suite can double as a windbreaker or temporary sun protection.

o Walking/Boat Shoes. Soft rubber soled shoes that are comfortable for light hiking are recommended. They will provide good traction aboard and be adequate for island exploring. Leather soled shoes and "flip-flops" should not be worn because they can cause dangerous slips on wet decks.

o Medicines/Personnel Needs Items .  Don't forget items in this category.

o Snacks/Food.  A day on the water makes you hungry. Bring your favorites eatables.

o Other. Binoculars, camera, nature guidebooks, etc.

Late Spring, Summer, Early Fall:

o Get Wet Clothing. Bathing suite or shorts for wading, swimming or mud bogging.

o Dry Clothing: If you participate in activities that get you wet.

o Sun Cover. Even with sunscreen, it is prudent to carry a lightweight long sleeved shirt and pants. Zip off leg pants are handy. Your sun cover can serve for your dry clothing.

o Get Wet Shoes. An old pair of lacing tennis shoes is essential if one wishes to explore the marsh and mud on foot.

o Small Towel. Interestingly, if you towel salt water off your skin (instead of "air drying") you avoid most of   that "sticky salt water" feeling.

o  Insect Repellent.   When walking inland away from the beach, one is likely to encounter gnats and mosquitoes.  A good repellent needed.  About the best I've found has a minimum of 20% DEET in the formulation.

Late Fall, Winter, Early Spring:

o Cooler Weather Clothing:  The trick here to staying comfortable is layering. Wool or polypropylene work best in the high humidity found near the water. You may need several layers for an early morning start but frequently need only a medium to light shirt and pants by midday. Be sure your rain gear will fit over your layers. A rain suit works well as final layer and windbreaker.

o Rubber Boots.  Depending on activities, knee high boots may be desirable. These keep you dry and warm while walking the marsh edges.