KAYAK/SUP: Ft. Hamer - Gamble Creek - Upper Manatee River - w/lunch

FIRST TIMERS: SunCoast Pedal & Paddle (SP&P) decals are available for purchase prior to the event. The cost is $3 (please bring exact change). BY displaying this SP&P decal on your kayak, you won't have to sign the liability waiver on each trip you attend (you will sign an annual waiver when you purchase the decals). DESCRIPTION: The Manatee River flows East for 40 miles originating in the northeastern corner of Manatee County and ending in Tampa Bay. Lake Manatee is located about midway in the river's course. We have an easy launch from the Ft. Hamer Kayak launch. We then paddle under the Ft. Hamer Bridge that spans the Upper Manatee River and connects Ft. Hamer (North shore - Parrish) with Bradenton (South shore).. We continue to paddle East in to Gamble Creek to our rest and turn around point - a distance (one way) of 4 miles. We will have a 15 minute break (if you need to stretch or to use "mother nature" bathrooms) before tracing our route back to Ft. Hamer. Arrive no later than 30 minutes before scheduled launch time. There are clean restrooms adjacent to the kayak launch. *Note: Due to the many turns in the river, it is important that paddlers not drift apart and stay within sight of the group at ALL times. Due to the trip length, 8 miles, this paddle is intended for intermediate/experienced paddlers ONLY! This trip is for Suncoast Pedal & Paddle members exclusively. No guests, pets, +1's or spouses allowed on this trip. Upon Arrival: Please sign in on the "Participant Liability Waiver" (unless you have previously signed an annual waiver). IMPORTANT*: Approximately 10 minutes before launch time we will hold a MANDATORY pre-paddle safety briefing. Please do not get into your kayaks/SUPs until AFTER the safety briefing is over. Don't forget to bring: PFD and whistle (both required by law), and (optional) water, bug spray, itch relief, sunscreen, water shoes, snacks, paddle float, bilge pump, spray…