Participants in the 2011 edition of Paddle the Navesink Day, seen at Maple Cove, below, and from West Front Street down the Corinthian Cove driveway, above.  (Click to enlarge)

By DANIELLE TEPPER

For the third year in a row, Red Bank will celebrate its nautical heritage with a day specially dedicated to the Navesink River. Open to landlubbers and water lovers alike,  this Saturday’s “Paddle the Navesink Day” offers area residents chances to experience the river, rather than just look at it.

Starting at 10 a.m., the six-hour event offers those who may never have stepped foot into the fresh water that’s always at their fingertips opportunities to get their feet wet, literally.

Local boating clubs, businesses and organizations along the waterfront will also offer opportunities to experience kayaking, canoeing, sailing and rowing, which will allow paddlers to enjoy a mini guided tour of the river.

At Maple Cove, Brick Township’s Jersey Paddler will demonstrate different kinds of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Life vests and paddles will be provided to those who’d like to try on their sea, er, river legs. Eastern Mountain Sports of Eatontown will also be selling kayaks and related gear.

Adjacent to Maple Cove, Navesink River Rowing will host learn-to-row sessions while providing information on the programs it offers to adults and to youth who are at least 14 years old.

Adding to the education aspect, other environmental groups will be present as well: the Navesink Maritime Heritage Association will explain the ecology and history of the river and will host hands-on activities for kids. The American Littoral Society will host seining activities as well as a touch tank.

The historic Monmouth Boat Club plans an open house, offering free hamburgers and hot dogs, sailboat rides, and information on the club’s adult and youth sailing programs.

And for those just hoping for a scenic boat tour, Danny Schade’s Mum Runner will again be available for a small donation. Parking is open in the local lots off White Street and Front Street.

Send off the summer with a sunny afternoon spent on the water – all too soon, it will be frigid and icy and tucked away until next season.

For more information about this event, contact Cindy Burnham by email or 732-241-9532, or Linda Ensor by email or 732-693-3067.