Expedition-Style Adventure Racing In Small Boats

“The purpose of WaterTribe is to encourage the development of boats, equipment, skills and human athletic performance for safe and efficient coastal cruising using minimal impact human and wind powered watercraft based on sea kayaks, canoes, and small sailboats.” ~ Chief, February 2000

“A life changing experience!” ~ Heard many times.

What does expedition-style mean? It means that you need to be self-sufficient and carry all the supplies and equipment that you would expect to carry on a major kayaking or sailing expedition. This is not a “round the buoys” race with an empty boat and someone watching out for your safety. You are on your own.

Why do you call it an adventure race? Almost anyone can paddle or sail from Tampa Bay to Key Largo given enough time and good weather. If the weather is bad, just sit it out or end the trip. Take as long as you want. But if you put an 8-day time limit on it and do it in any weather, you will make it more challenging with plenty of adventure.

Are sea kayaks racing against sailboats? No. We have 6 different classes. There are three kayak/canoe classes with and without sails. There is a class for small mono-hull sailboats. Another class for small multi-hull sailboats, and finally an open class that even includes small electric auxiliaries.