An epic eight-day, 200-mile, 90-plus-person paddle covering the entire length of the Chesapeake Bay begins today. Known simply as Bay Paddle, It's not a race but a journey challenging the physical and mental endurance of each participant while traveling on one of the planet's most spectacular and diverse bodies of water – all in the name of a good cause.

Bay Paddle's mission is to help protect the Chesapeake Bay by working with organizations like Oyster Recovery Partnership to plant more oysters, as well as with the Chesapeake Conservancy in supporting their efforts to designate the Bay as a National Park.

"[Last September] I became the first person to stand-up paddle board the entire length of the Chesapeake Bay. I did it over nine days in order to raise money for Oyster Recovery Partnership," writes Chris Hopkinson, Bay Paddle founder. "It was an unforgettable experience... in some of the most spectacular and remote parts of the Bay, areas most boats can’t get to because of depth. I felt like an explorer navigating uncharted territory."

On the first day, paddlers will begin their exploration by departing Havre de Grace, heading for Haven Harbour South where they will rest and rejuvenate. Day two will continue them on their southbound journey towards Claiborne Landing, then onto subsequent stops at Taylor's Island, Chrisfield, Cape Charles, and ultimately the Atlantic, where the checkered flag awaits.

"More people should experience the journey and more needs to be done to protect our national treasure. That’s the mission of the Bay Paddle."

Learn more about the Bay Paddle organization, this year's event, how to help and where to donate at baypaddle.org.

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