Welcome to MASKGI
Welcome
to the rocky, forest-lined shores of Maine! With more coastline than
California (over 3,400 miles), innumerable bays, coves, inlets, and beaches,
Maine offers kayakers a dream come true. Likewise, with frigid waters even
in the summer, fog, huge tide ranges, and pronounced ocean currents, Maine
is a challenging paddling environment. It's no wonder that Maine has an
active, vigorous program for licensing sea kayak guides!
The Maine Association of Sea Kayak Guides and Instructors is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising professional standards for those guiding and teaching sea kayaking on the Maine Coast. We work closely with Federal, state, and local agencies to improve the safety of the paddling industry. Whether you're a Mainer, or a visitor, when paddling the coasts of Maine, use a knowledgeable guide. And MASKGI is the place to come to find competent, well-seasoned sea kayaking guide services. Look under Getting a Guide, or check our Member listings to obtain a licensed sea kayak guide for your trip.
Safety First and Foremost
MASKGI's
#1 goal is safe paddling. Paddle
accidents happen fast. There are a few simple rules all paddlers should
follow, whether in Maine or not:
- Dress for the water, not the air, temperature.
- Air Temp + Water Temp < 110 = stay out of the water.
- Water Temp < 50 = experienced paddlers w/drysuits only!
- Water Temp between 50 and 60 = wetsuits!
- Wear a lifejacket at all times.
- Make sure somebody knows where you are and when you'll return.
- Paddle with a buddy.
- Check weather and tide conditions, and plan accordingly.
Below are links to marine weather, ocean temperature data, and current tide for the Maine coast. Make sure to check them before every trip. If you need assistance, contact one of our members! For more information on cold water and considerations for cold weather paddling, look on our Safety page.
Marine Weather
Ocean Temp
Tidal Data