Can't go today but very interesting reading about Samuel de Champlain's travels along the Massachusetts coast. His maps and drawings are amazing!  Have fun!

I have used only wooden shoulderless GP's for the past 25 years - I am currently using my second one, having worn out the first. The part that wore was not the tip but the loom that got smaller and smaller from holding it. I ordered both paddles, and a spare/storm paddle, from Don Beale. He custom-makes each paddle to your body measurements, custom-stains if desired, can add reinforced tips - and he refuses payment until you receive the paddle and are satisfied with it. He keeps the measurements in case you want to order another some day. I met Don when I was at a PNW greenland-paddling meeting some years back - very nice guy, and I'm sure he is not making a lot of bucks off these paddles, just doing it because he loves to. Anyway, I agree with Bill Voss above about the usefulness of shoulderless paddles. I do like an oval loom for keeping paddle blade orientation where I want it. And I like wood over carbon for the grip-ability and repairability (which has basically been oiling it where it wears). Back when I was running whitewater rivers, I saw more than one carbon paddle suddenly snap. I just don't trust them. Finally, I absolutely love using a piece of gear that is so utterly simple - a stick! - but yet so perfect for its purpose.  Hope this is helpful and encouraging!

Thanks for the offer Paul,  you are very close to me, I will reach out. 

Thanks @billvoss very helpful comments.  Joe @Joe Guglielmetti  great idea, just need to find time to get up there…  

Impressive, Bob! The Bride 13 serial episode most relevant to today's Wednesday lunch paddle: Episode #12 "The Reefs of Treachery" Below: Salt Island Ledge off Good Harbor Beach at red nun "4. Note the pithy understatement "Breakers":  Below: Bemo Ledge, Brace's Cove. Gloucester kids surf its break often: