Sun Coast SUP summarizes modeled conditions for its listed launches with a letter, a reason and a separate decision status. Read them together. A favorable letter does not certify that a launch or route is safe for you.
The grade groups in the current model
The current grade groups are below. These are model categories, not universal wind limits, skill ratings or permission to launch. Only the highest-ranked qualifying launch can receive A++.
- A++ / A+ / A / A-: the model's good-conditions group.
- B+ / B / B-: the model's intermediate, paddleable-conditions group.
- C+ / C / C- / D: the model's marginal-conditions group.
- F: the model's poor-conditions group.
The decision status can restrict a favorable grade. A caution is a condition to read and assess, not an all-clear. A barred decision means no current launch window is recommended. Missing, stale or partial critical checks can make the decision incomplete. Unknown does not mean clear. Future planner results are forecast facts, not a certified future launch window.
What the model uses, and what it cannot see
Wind and gusts: speed and direction both matter, along with waves, current, exposure, your equipment and your group's ability. Ten knots toward shore is not automatically harmless. Wind away from shore can make returning difficult even when the water near the beach looks calm. RNLI paddleboarding guidance advises avoiding offshore wind.
Exposure and tides: the model uses configured launch geometry and selected access or low-tide checks. Those inputs do not inspect every cove, mangrove tunnel, route, obstacle or changing current. Nearby shelter does not prove the whole route is protected.
Warnings and closures: available alert, closure and red-tide information can restrict a recommendation. Coverage is limited to the sources and launch records the app has. Check the relevant land manager and current official notices; the app does not verify every closure, seasonal rule or water-quality hazard.
Read the time and the water
A current decision uses available evidence for that place and time. Read its timestamps, freshness and missing-check notices. Refreshing the page or retrieving a forecast does not make an older observation new, and does not guarantee that every provider has updated. Conditions can change during your trip.
If the app looks favorable but you see whitecaps, a blocked exit, approaching storms or conditions beyond your ability, do not treat the letter as permission to go. A grade cannot measure your skill, fatigue, equipment or ability to reach shelter. NWS boating guidance recommends staying ashore when thunderstorms are a possibility.
Use the launch guide as a starting point
The free launches, dog-friendly spots and springs pages help you find listed places. Their labels and local notes are not a live inspection of facilities, wildlife rules or access. Confirm the details that matter to your trip.
Open your launch in the app, read the grade, decision status, reasons and evidence time, and assess the actual route with your group before deciding whether to launch.