No. But it’s a big boat.
Hopefully where you paddle isn’t as dry as your humor. 
@WaterBird said:
Well, thousands of people paddle the Maine coast in the summer without a wetsuit or drysuit. It’s inconceivable that you would go out on the ocean in Maine on a 90-degree day and see hundreds of people wearing wetsuits and drysuits.
I have never seen experienced paddlers off Mount Desert Island or Stonington venture out of a bay or go more than a few hundred yards off shore with anything less than a semi dry suit in August. In fact, I have not seen many novices at all (without a guide) at Arcadia. Not even the surfers at Hampton beach…
So it depends on the area.
@DrowningDave said:
You’re probably right Bob. I saved a friend from drowning once and in his panic he also killed me (literally). And he was normal weight. Remounting any craft while in the water takes at least a little physical ability.
In SCUBA training, it is taught never to make physical contact with a drowning person. Throw a line or part of your gear or clothing or maybe even your regulator hose,…but do not allow them to touch you.
@WaterBird said:
@PaddleDog52 said:
Water temp risk remain the same no matter how many others are in there in the same ocean.True. And the desire that hundreds of people have to paddle the Maine coast on a hot summer day also remains the same. Safety recommendations need to be realistic for what people can do, what they’re willing and likely to do, what they can afford. A realistic recommendation might be “paddle with a group and stay close to shore” or “go with an outfitter or instructor if you’re not sure what you’re doing.”
Check this outfitter: https://mainekayak.com/kayaking-trips/sea-kayaking/ See any wetsuits or drysuits? How about https://www.oldquarry.com/kayaking-tours-trips/?
The Old Quarry “What to bring” list mentions a wetsuit or drysuit only for lessons, with the caveat “suggested depending on time of year.” The average water temperature in Stonington in August is 58 degrees. At that temperature you lose dexterity in 10-15 minutes but you can survive an hour or so. The USK hypotherima chart calls for a wetsuit or drysuit in water under 80 degrees (albeit a shorty between 70 and 80 degrees). Apparently Old Quarry chooses not to follow that recommendation for all summer paddling.
If you are paddling the Archipelago, especially with a group, shore is never far away. They teach newcomers in a pond or within yards of the shore. They rent protective gear. You can file a safety plan. The most dangerous thing in the area is biking on the state road–just don’t do it.
a video of the area, with a sudden change in the weather: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7N7lAWRKFfA
PS…the gps was great for doublechecking my compass skills
If I had to wear a drysuit every time out, I’d have another hobby.
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