Westport, CT - Join the Westport Historical Society for its annual kayak tour to Cockenoe Island, on Saturday, August 20 from 10 am to 12:30 pm. Cockenoe is a 28-acre island one mile off the coast of Westport. The tour will be led by David Park, board member of the Norwalk River Watershed Association and author of the guidebook “Kayaking in and around the Norwalk Islands”.
”I love leading this event each year that is both fun and educational. The participants have always been enthusiastic about kayaking out to the Westport island, walking along the shore and hearing about the history of the island and the many migratory bird stories that nest on parts of the island. My favorite part of the discussion is talking about how the stewardship of property by residents within the Saugatuck River watershed can affect the water quality of Long Island Sound and wildlife around the Norwalk Islands," said Park.
Cockenoe Island is open to the public thanks to the hundreds of Westport residents and town officials who fought against the proposed construction of a nuclear power plant back in 1967. The plan was brought forward by the United Illuminating Company who had purchased the island a year earlier from the Smith family, the owners of the island at the time. After the plan was defeated, the town of Westport purchased the island as open space and it is now enjoyed by all types of recreational users and nature enthusiasts. The acquisition was heralded as a significant conservation victory for the nation by Life Magazine.
Intermediate level kayak ability is required. Outfitting in cotton clothing should be avoided as it absorbs water and does not dry out. Synthetic materials are recommended.There is a $20 tax deductible donation per boat, Members are $15 donation per boat. There is a rain date of August 21.Meet at: Longshore Sailing School, Longshore Park, Westport. Please note : the $20 donation is for the guided tour only. Kayak rentals are available for a separate fee, paid directly to Longshore Sailing School. For single or double kayak rental prices, please call Longshore Sailing School at 203-226-4646 or visit their website at www.longshoresailingschool.com
Copies of “Kayaking in and around the Norwalk Islands” are available for $10 in the Gift Shop at WHS.
Registration is required, limited number of boats. Please call us at 203-222-1424 to register.