Have you ever felt the raw power of nature? Right here at Point Blunt Rock you can. This isn’t just any rock. Point Blunt Rock is a significant landmark marking the southeast corner of Angel Island. It sits where powerful tidal currents meet and sometimes clash.
Point Blunt Rock isn’t a single monolithic structure. It’s a series of rocks. Tall haystack-shaped rocks dominate the scene. Many smaller rocks are scattered in the water. The largest is pyramid-shaped. It’s between 6 and 12 feet tall and 20 to 40 feet across. That depends on the tide of course. This main rock sits about 50 yards from a much lower and broader rock. The gap between them is the key to safely navigating around Point Blunt Rock.
But beware. There’s a hidden danger. A rock shelf extends from the pyramid-shaped rock. It’s underwater most of the time. Even at high tide long swells can conceal it. A passing rower might hit this submerged rock. The safe route is to stay well clear of the outer rock. Always keep at least 30 feet away.
Rowers often approach Point Blunt Rock from the west or east. From the west start your approach in front of the westernmost haystack rock. If you’re rowing along the shoreline you are already in position. If you’ve taken a wider route move closer to shore before starting to round the point. This avoids the hidden shoal. From the east you’ll row in an arc around the tallest haystack. Aim to round the lower inner rock. Staying closer to the inside of the channel is safer.
There’s a tempting but dangerous shortcut. As you approach from the east you’ll see a large gap beyond the rocks. It’s tempting to cut across. However that route takes you directly over the hidden shoal. It’s the same from the other side. A tempting gap appears. Again it leads straight to the dangerous submerged rock. Remember to approach from the side and get closer before rounding Point Blunt Rock.
Point Blunt Rock may seem challenging to navigate. However the passage is wide. It’s about as wide as the entrance to many home marinas. The currents are normally gentle. For a truly unforgettable experience try visiting during an extreme low tide. You’ll be able to see the hidden rock clearly. Then you’ll truly understand the challenge and the reward of safely rounding Point Blunt Rock.