A calving glacier produces flotillas of beautiful, multi-colored icebergs. The ice comes in different sizes:

· Brash ice is less than 6 feet across.

· Growler ice is larger than 6 feet but less than 3 feet tall.

· Bergy bits are larger: 3-15 feet tall.

· Icebergs are taller than 15 feet

Paddling through floating ice is a surreal experience. However, ice can flip over or break up unexpectedly. As the Titanic's crew discovered, ice floating in water shows only about 10% of its mass, leaving 90% under water. Since saltwater melts ice faster than the air, all icebergs are inherently unstable. A wave from a calving event or passing boat (or even a kayak) may be all that is required to capsize a berg. The larger and more top-heavy a berg, the farther away you should stay. Keep at least one boat length away from growler ice. Near bergy bits and icebergs estimate the height of the piece, and keep at least 10 times that distance. For example: Keep 150 feet away from a 15-foot tall iceberg, because 90% of its mass is under water. If your boat length is 15-17 feet, estimate 10 boat lengths and keep that distance. Be particularly careful when taking photographs, as you may not notice how close you are drifting as you set up the camera. Finally, do not attempt to walk on floating ice of any size, paddle under arches, or go near grounded ice. Ice of any size or shape can break up with little or no warning.

When approaching floating ice, the view from a distance is often a long, white impenetrable looking flat-topped barrier. This can be caused by a mirage effect or ice that looks like a line of ice when viewed at water level, or even actually densely packed ice.

In all but the last instance, there is usually a way through. First, if possible, scout a route by going ashore and looking down on the ice. A three-boat raft of kayaks firmly braced, will allow the middle kayaker to stand up to scout the floe. Pick a route through the thinnest and smallest ice. If the wind and current are obviously moving the ice, aim to the upwind/upcurrent side. Avoid shallow areas where ice may be thick or grounded. On the far side of a shallow area, look for open water. Once in the ice, paddle single file with your rudders up to avoid damage. A plastic or stout, inflatable kayak can often serve as an icebreaker for a fleet of fiberglass boats. A single kayak in front can maneuver through the ice better than a double. You can paddle through very thick, small brash ice for short distances; however, do not venture into thick ice for extended distances. Besides the potential danger of being flipped by a large rolling berg, you could also get stuck in the ice. It is often difficult to turn a kayak around in thick ice. If you become stuck, patiently drift as currents will gradually break-up the ice pack, try paddling backwards, or try to execute a long slow turn into clearer water.