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Sea Turtles Adventure

I found myself at the boat ramp of the Fort Fisher Basin. It was the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. It was also going to be a full strawberry moon that evening, an anomaly which won’t happen again for over 50 years. Along with Don and I was Mahanaim’s environmental education expert, Mandy Uticone. Our customers that evening were with the Wilmington Parks and Recreation Department. After a mile paddle along the Fort Fisher sea wall we landed at Zeke’s Island. Don explained the history and use of the island in addition to its estuary purposes. As our break ended we began paddling the second leg to a beach access were we ate our sack dinners. Just over the sand dunes was a newly laid Leatherback turtle nest. The nest was found that morning, marked, and roped off for its protection. Mandy taught us all about sea turtles that frequent the North Carolina shores and how they nest. During the lesson I helped Mandy by reenacting how a turtle crawls from the ocean, lays their eggs, and buries them with their feet. As the sun began to set we returned to out boats for the final paddle back. Half way through the paddle the sun was setting to the west as the moon rose to the east, a perfect ending to a perfect evening.

Don & Diane Harty own Mahanaim Adventures. They specialize in helping families and groups to have “Positive & Memorable” outdoor adventures. Whether these are wildlife view adventure, camping adventure or a simple kayaking adventure. They provide kayaking adventures on Town Creek, Cape Fear River, Fort Fisher Basin, Masonboro Island, Black River, Holly Shelter Creek and Moores Creek. Contact them at www.mahanaimadventures.com for more information about all of their adventures.

This Blog was Written by Sam Law. I am Mahanaim Advenures new intern for the summer of 2016. I am a Park and Recreation Management Student at East Carolina, Go Pirates! I love the the ocean and outdoors more than anything. This coming summer i will be writing a blog similar to this each week to let everyone know about the awesome adventures and encounters we have. I hope to see ya’ll out paddling this summer.

Cheers!

Moores Creek Battlefield

We found ourselves in the parking lot of Patriot Hall at the Moore’s Creek Battlefield in Burgaw, North Carolina. Don and I were preparing to lead a group of folks from Brunswick Forest. That day we had the honor of guiding many repeat participants whom we had the pleasure of giving a kayak lesson to weeks prior. Our paddle that morning consisted of a four mile trek down and back up Moore’s Creek. During the trip our group paddled under the replica bridge in which the Battle of Moore’s Creek was focused around. Many Prothonotary Warblers were darting across the creek that morning. After our paddle that day we met with Jason Howell, a park ranger at the battlefield, who gave us a walking tour and lesson of the historic sight.

The story goes that in 1773 after the Boston Tea Party, the “intolerable act” is put in place turning Massachusetts into a military state. This scared other states, enough to have other states aid Massachusetts. North Carolina residents send corn and supplies in order to help but were reprimanded by the North Carolina Governor. A frigid evening on February 26, 1776, General Donald MacDonald of the Loyalists alongside of Scottish Highlanders,set camp on the south side of the bridge. Colonel James Moore and his group of militia men and patriots prepare to the North. If the Loyalists are to take Moore’s Creek they will be able to take the North Carolina coast. Before the battle the Patriots remove the bridge tresses and oil the remaining wood in order to sabotage the Loyalists attempt to cross and attack. While the Loyalists attempt to cross the bridge the Patriots planned to attack. The battle happened accordingly to Colonel James Moore’s plan, gaining victory for the Patriots. Although the battle only lasted three minutes over 30 Loyalists men were lost while only one Patriot died. The Battle of Moore’s Creek was a huge step to North Carolina’s vote for independence. Moore’s Creek Battlefield is not only a beautiful paddle, but the area is full of rich history.

Cheers!

Cape Fear River

We arrived at a small boat ramp outside of Navassa, North Carolina. We were headed out onto Davis Creek, which flows into the Cape Fear / Brunswick River. Don and I were preparing to guide a group of folks with the Leland Parks and Recreation Department. The area holds a lot of wildlife unique to the Wilmington coastal area. During the trip we paddled by Eagle Island. This island is located just north of waterfront Wilmington North Carolina. The island splits the Cape Fear River in two, thus creating the Brunswick River (flowing right of the island) and Cape Fear River (flowing to the left side of the island).

The Brunswick River has a unique history. At the end of World War II the Brunswick River held the U.S. Maritime Commission’s reserve fleet. The shipyard was the second largest vessel graveyard in the United States, giving it the nickname of the “ghost fleet”. The North Carolina Ship Building Company was located just across Eagle Island, making the river a perfect location to store the fleet. There were a total of 648 ships in the fleet. The last ship was removed from the river in 1970.

Just north of where the ghost fleet ships were moored, we entered Sturgeon Creek. Just after entering the creek we saw a juvenile alligator sunning on a log. After a quick glimpse he was startled and swam away. After paddling another mile into the creek we landed at our final destination at Sturgeon Creek Park in Leland, North Carolina. With great weather and great company we all had an amazing trip that day. I look forward to my next trip out to Eagle Island.

Cheers!

Basic Kayak Safety

Before going out on the water, the proper preparation is necessary to have a safe and positive experience. If you have never been, it is a good idea to seek instruction from a qualified guide service or instructor. Also, if you are new to an area it is important to do your homework and research the location you are going.

Having a plan is paramount to a safe successful adventure. Leaving an float plan for a friend or family member is a tool that should be utilized every time you go off the grid. An action plan consists of:

Where you are going
Who you are going with/ how many people
When on the water (time period)
When you get of the water

It is highly important to remember water, snacks, and sunblock, no matter how long the trip. Remember, Gilligan and the Skipper only planned for “a three hour tour”.

Keeping the right equipment and safety devices on hand is necessary when on the water. Before going out you should always check your gear to make sure it is in proper working order. Some basic safety necessities include:

PFD
Paddle Leash
Reflective mirror
Whistle/horn
Compass-map and/or GPS
Paddle Float
Bilge Pump
First Aid Kit
Water
Flash-light
Dry bag to carry it all in
Dry change of clothes (wicking & warming)

Weather also has a large influence on outdoor activities, specifically water based. It is important to check the weather extensively before and during your trip as conditions can change rapidly. This includes storms, winds, currents and tides.

When kayaking the possibility of falling out exists. No matter if you are the best kayaker in the world, at some point in time falling in the drink is inevitable. By following two simple rules, you can keep your chance at survival at 99.9%. Make sure that you are ALWAYS WEARING your PFD (personal floatation device) when on the water. It needs to be on your body not just in your possession. Secondly, stay with your vessel whether it is capsized or upright. All kayaks, canoes, and small craft come from the manufacturer with floatation build within. Staying with your boat gives you something to hold onto in addition to making you more noticeable.

Finally, paddling in a group can be one of the best ways to stay safe while having fun adventures with friends. If a few simple precautions are taken, you can make a safe and positive experience.

For a quick video lesson on kayak safety check out the following YouTube video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otakobRXynM

Cheers!

Shark Tooth Hunting

As Tropical Storm Bonnie moved through South Carolina, we in Wilmington were left with some gorgeous sunny weather Memorial Day weekend. The sun was high in the sky as the participants arrived. That morning’s trip was on the Cape Fear River/Sharks Tooth Island to hunt for sharks teeth. Our group that day was two amazing families, both with young children. From the moment the youngsters arrived there spirits and energy level were through the roof.

After a brief safety orientation, off we went. As we paddle to our stop, our group passes by a tower in the channel just off the boat ramp where a Osprey nest is located. The mom, dad, and their chicks live there in this huge nest. The mom stands on high alert as she intently watches us paddle by the tower. Upon arrival to our first stop, Sharks Tooth Island, the group gathered as I showed them how to look for prehistoric shark’s teeth and fossils. Quickly we began to find sharks teeth that were keepers; best of all, they were from different prehistoric sharks. While we were walking the island looking for shark’s teeth, a smooth looking rock caught my eye. After further investigation we come to find it is a 2 inch long 1 inch wide prehistoric Great White Shark’s tooth. The biggest sharks tooth I have ever found. While out on the beach we also found fossilized gastropod casts of shells that were preserved remarkably well. In all this was a great day for fossil hunting on the beaches of Sharks Tooth Island.

After a short paddle we landed at Keg Island. Here we observed White Ibis searching the mud flats for lunch. Many fiddler and marsh crabs covered these beaches. As we walked the beach of this beautiful island, the crabs dispersed as if they were making a pathway just for us. This island may not have held many sharks teeth, yet what it lacked it teeth, made up in wildlife. As the children began to crash from a full day of beach hunting the group set course for home. What a wonderful opportunity to find the treasures we did while creating amazing memories to last forever. In all it was a great day, with a great group of people.

The next day Don and I had the honor of guiding UNCW Professor Roger Shew and an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNCW (Olli) group. That day Professor Shew taught us about the different casts and fossils of prehistoric sea creatures and sharks teeth. We learned that the sand dug up from the Cape Fear River is 35-40 million years old. Meaning all the fossils found were that old as well. That day the Olli group members found some really cool fossils and we learned some amazing information about the area.

Cheers!

My First Adventure through the Three Sisters

We found ourselves on a river bank of the Black River, kayak paddles dipped in the water, and Don our leader finishing up a safety discussion. We were preparing for a twelve mile journey down the Black River and through the Three Sisters Swamp. As the sun began to rise, our group of nine pushed off. The weather couldn’t have been any more perfect that day. It was slightly overcast with a solid breeze and no humidity, the perfect day for recreational kayaking. Our group of 9 consisted of old friends who were no strangers to kayaking. It was an amazing opportunity to learn from other kayakers while swapping paddle stories. Seconds after hitting the water, the Eastern North Carolina wildlife began to come alive. ProthonotaryWarbler’s were flying back and forth over the river, while the hooting of Barred Owls echoed in the distance. Further down river we spotted Nutria swimming across in front of our group. The combination of wildlife and perfect Eastern North Carolina weather created a perfect concoction to explore God’s creation and what He has given us. Along the river bank stood Cypress trees in which Pileated Woodpeckers have dug burrows. Each year these birds create a new burrow in a new tree, residing in each for only one season. During the trip one guest reminded us why it is always important to keep close attention to what you are doing. One gentleman in particular found himself upside-down in the water while not paying attention to where he was going. Thanks to his calm reserve and professional attitude we were able to perform a flawless rescue, returning the gentleman to his boat. Roughly 6 miles into our trip we entered the Three Sisters Swamp, a freshwater Cypress forest. This swamp contains trees dating over 2000 years old. Being in the swamp with such ancient beings is truly a breath taking experience. As we exited the swamp the Barred Owl whose hoot had echoed through the forest made his first appearance flying across in front of us. A perfect farewell gift for a perfect kayak trip.

Cheers!

Last Night

Last night I had the privilege of leading a sunset kayaking adventure for a Mom and her three kids. When the Mom scheduled this adventure, she told me that her family had been through some really rough stuff. The Mom was looking for something for them to do together for fun and to be a family creating a good family memory. After we got off the water last night as we were walking back to the cars, Mom told me thank you for all we had done for her and her kids that they would be talking about this adventure for a long time.

This reminded me of one of the reasons why Diane and I started this business and for some of the success we are having. You see, when our family was young, we spent lots of time out camping, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing and many other outdoor activities. The vast majority of the times all went well, some not so well. Those of you who spend lots of time in the outdoors with kids know what I mean. However about 7 years ago when my son-in-law started dating Hillary, he made the mistake of going camping with us one weekend. Our kids spent the whole weekend sharing with him all the fun family memories we had doing all of these things together. Listing to our kids laugh and carry on with each other remember this time together was a precious gift to Diane and I.

Last night I was reminded of this simple fact; that we got a chance to help this family create a special memory that they will cherish now and in the years to some. I guess that I am sharing this with you because we each have chances each day to make a difference in other people lives. I guess it comes down to perspective and remember that life is not all about me, but how I can be used by Christ to be a blessing to someone that I meet.

Early Morning Kayaking

The other evening, my son, Joseph suggested that we head out the next morning for some kayaking. Those who know me know that I am always up for a good adventure, even in colder months. However, at this time, those of us who live in Wilmington are experience some fabulous weather, especially for being the middle of January. So the next morning we loaded up our kayaks and headed out for a early morning “Father & Son” adventure on the Cape Fear River. We got to River Road Park just about 7:45 AM and set everything down at the river’s edge and began soaking up the Majesty of God’s Creation! The morning was cool, but it was a bright and sunny morning that gives you a promise of a warmer day ahead.

Once we got to the park and set the kayaks down at the water’s edge, we quickly noticed the stillness of the water. This was one of these rare mornings here in the Cape Fear area that we did not have any wind blowing. When this happens, the water in the Cape Fear River is very calm and smooth as glass. The reflections on the water a breath taking as you paddle are breath taking. A couple of other benefits of having this kind of stillness is paddling is easier and one hears sounds that you would not normally hear.

This morning we decided to head north on the river to take advantage of the incoming tide. As we paddles out we quickly notices how much warmer it was on the water. With no clouds or wind this morning, we were able to feel the warmth of the sun’s reflection of the water. This made it quite nice and comfortable for us on this cool morning. Truly this is a rear morning here in Wilmington.

The stillness of the wind and water allow you to notice wildlife off in the distance quickly. We had not paddled for then 5 minutes when I noticed a pie-billed grebe diving along the marsh grasses at the edge of the water. The grebe kept diving for his breakfast meal, but kept a close eye on Joseph and I. As we paddled closer he would dive down and come up 20 or so yards further away from us. It was kind of cool watching this little bird.

Later on as we paddled our way back to the boat ramp, we spotted a pod of dolphin about a hundred years off. This was so very cool seeing these beautiful animals. They did not let us get close, but we were able to sit still and observer them from that distance. The wind and the water remained just like it was when we started so it was easy to view them. As we sat there we counted 7 in the pod that included 2 calf’s that stayed close to their mothers. Maybe this was why they stayed away from us. Anyway we sat there floating on the water for 15 minutes watching them play in the water and chase there breakfast meal.

Both Joseph and I reflected on our morning spent paddling on the Cape Fear River. It was so cool to watch the wildlife together. It was simply amazing to take advantage of this beautiful morning and to enjoy it together. It was also a great experience just to get out and paddle together as, father & son. We both agreed that we have to take advantage of the next time we have such nice conditions.

Don & Diane Harty own Mahanaim Adventures and provide “Positive and Memorable” kayaking and other outdoor adventure in the Wilmington NC area. Some of the kayaking adventure locations are: Fort Fisher Basin; Cape Fear River, Sharks Tooth Island, Masonboro Island, Eagle Island, Town Creek, Holly Shelter Creek, Moores Creek and the Black River. Long onto www.mahanaimadventures.com to read more about these adventures and to schedule your adventures. Or call 910-547-8252 for more information.

Bird Watching in Florida!

Last summer I mentioned to Jill Peleuses, owner of Wild Bird & Garden, that we needed to put together an adventure to Florida for February to do some bird watching and kayaking. The idea quickly took hold and interest started to build in our idea. Before we knew it, we had seven people signed up for this adventure to the Tampa Bay area for some fun in the sun!

However, I have to admit that this adventure had been something I have wanted to do for some time now. You see, I grew up in the Tampa Bay area and I have many fond memories of canoeing the beautiful rivers in the area. It was also during these years that God gave me a love of nature/wildlife and the outdoors. If you are not familiar with the Tampa Bay areas, there are lots and lots of migrating birds that winter in the Tampa Bay area. So, this adventure for me was more than taking a great group of birdwatchers to Florida; it was about exploring the area I grew up in as an adult.

Everyone made safe and sound to our hotel and excited about what lay ahead. While everyone was checking in to the hotel, I was setting up my camp at Alafia River State Park. I decided to camp instead of say at the hotel for several reason, but a change to camp for a week and sleep under the stars in my tent, darn. About half way though setting up camp, I heard a strange but familiar noise just around the corner of my camp. It was a call that once you have heard it before, you would never forget. It was the call of a Sandhill Crane. As a kid, these cranes were seen in Florida, but not in very large numbers due to their very low number. I am not sure why, maybe there were on the endangered list at one time, I don’t remember. Anyway, I poked my head out of my tent and in the distance I spotted the 4 cranes.

All I can say was WOW! Here they were walking though the camp grounds, headed in my direction. As I sat there, I was amazed at how close they walked to me and my tent. It was almost as if they were not afraid of me. I was amazed at how tall these cranes were, they must have been 36” to 40”. I sat there in amazement. And just think; the week was just beginning and I was already seeing some cool birds!

The next morning everyone met at Alafia River State Park for a ranger lead bird walk. What a perfect morning to start the day! We got a chance to see more sand hill cranes as well as some ospreys that morning. After a quick lunch at the kayak launch, we put out on the Alafia River for some kayaking. The river was a beautiful as I have ever remembered. And yes, we did see several nice size alligators along the way. Just as we got to the turnaround point, someone spotted something in that I had never seen before; a group of about 30 black bellied whistling duck! (Never knew ducks whistled) What a beautiful duck! The color of these ducks was spectacular. Watching them sitting there in the shallow water was awesome.

The next day was even better at Myakka River State Park. Myakka has a special place in my memory. I have camped, hiked, biked and wondered all over this park as a kid in Boy Scouts. So driving into the park that next morning was quite exciting for me. Not just a chance to see some cool birds, but again, the memories of days gone by.

The day started off with a air boat tour of Lake Myakka and a talk about the birds and the other wildlife of the park. It was amazing to see hundreds of alligators on this lake, some of them in the 14’ plus range. We also spent time walking on one of the many nature trails, we spotted a wild boar grazing within a few feet of a large gator. We were astonished by the sight of this boar so close to the gator. We were not sure if the boar was brave or if he knew something about the gator next to him. Anyway that was cool. Yet there was more to come. While driving back to the main concession stand area of the park for some ice cream, I found out how excited true hard core birders can get. As I was driving, one of the ladies in my vehicle spotted a roseate spoonbill. Before I could pull over and stop the vehicles, two of the ladies were out of the vehicle; running back to the spot with binoculars in hand. After this event, I started locking the doors so no one would jump out prematurely.

The last day we spent at Edward Menden Reservoir and a Circle B Reserve! I had never been to Circle B Reserve just southeast of Lakeland, but we heard from one of the park rangers that this was a fantastic place. So we decided to change our plans and head over to Circle B for the afternoon. What awaited us was breath taking. We spent 5 hours here at this park walking and seeing hundreds of birds including; bald eagles, several peregrine falcons, limpkins and a great blue heron eating a huge mudpuppy. This mudpuppy was so big that the heron spent several minutes stabbing it with its beak to cut it in half.

As the week of bird watching and kayaking came to a close, most everyone did not want to leave and head home. We all had a wonderful time exploring central Florida and enjoying birds that we rarely see if ever here in Wilmington. We all got some sun while out and about, but most of all, everyone I believe came away with a since of awe of being out in God’s creation and viewing some wonderful wildlife. I know I sure did.

Mahanaim Adventures not only provide wonderful adventure to Florida, but offers guided kayaking adventures in the Wilmington and Carolina Beach areas of North Carolina. We specialize in creating that memory of a life time for you and your family and friends. Check out our web page and find out more details about all of our adventure locations.

Sunsets

This summer I have had the pleasure of leading more than my share of kayaking adventures. I guess that is a hazard of owning an outdoor / kayaking adventure business, but I guess there are plenty of other jobs that are worse than mine. Anyway, I have had a chance to witness some spectacular sunset this summer while guiding these kayaking adventures out of River Road Park here in Wilmington, NC. These adventures have given me the chance to simply stop in awe struck wonder; to stand still for a brief moment and soaking in the majestic beauty the sunset before me. Each sunset has been different; no two sunsets even close to each other.

These sunsets have reminded me of some important facts that I need to remember. Each sunset is a once in a life time event and it last only a few minutes and all too often I take them for granted. This is just like some other things in my life. Sunsets happen each day and become so familiar that at times, if you like me; I can be so busy with life that I fail to stop and notice what I have been given.

First, I was reminded how easy it is for me to taking things and people around me for granted. This is something that very easily happens if I am not careful. The danger for me is that I become can become so familiar with my surroundings; with those who I engage life with that I often fail to realize what a precious gift God has given me in them. This summer I have had to pleasure to working daily with Sarah and Joseph (my middle daughter and youngest son), and what a pleasure it has been. Yet, if I am not careful, I can get so focused on what I am doing or how thing are either going or not going, that I forget to stop and get to know my kids. For me that is a scary and humbling thought. To never really know who my children are and to take them for granted is something that I don’t want, but yet it happens.

The other thing that all these sunset reminded me about is that sometimes we have to just stop and be still. For me, life can be a steady movement from one goal to the next, or one project to the next. When I get into this mode, I often fail to stop and soak in all that is good in life that I have been so graciously given. In other words, sometimes I/we get to busy to watch a sunset or to be still and enjoy the moment. It is amazing just too simply be still to watch and listen to all around me. To relax and be still has been very good for me and all my relationships.

No matter how many different kayaking adventures I guide, the one reoccurring theme that I hear from everyone is how relaxing it is being out on the water. Being still and enjoying the moment with loved ones and those special people around you. When I slow down, I have found that I can relax and then begin to embrace and enjoy the life that I have been given; why not give it a try yourself?

Mahanaim Adventures offers guided kayaking adventures in the Wilmington, Carolina Beach areas as well as the Cape Fear Region. We specialize in creating that memory of a life time for you and your family and friends. Check out our web page and find out more details about all of our adventure locations.