How To Consider Kayaking Trips

What you should know

Kayakers do not go into waters without learning or practice. That is a smart person who wants to learn how to kayak will not go into open waters without skill, knowledge, observation, balance, education, and sufficient practice. Maybe you seen in the news about kayakers were injured, or even died from their adventure. Why do you think these news reports come out? Likely, the kayakers dismissed rules, failed to learn and practice first, or else left their kayak during capsizing. (Flip)

Did you know that advanced kayakers can actually make it across hurricane waters? Did you know an advanced kayaker can make it entirely across an ocean or sea in a kayak? It's been done and recorded in history.

The first thing a kayaker will do before hitting open waters, still or moving is to consider how he will get his boat to the edge of the waters. He will next consider how he will launch his vessel. The next thing he will do is consider boarding the boat without capsizing.

The HULL REGISTRATION:
Do you have a new kayak or a rental? Either way, a kayaker will consider the registration, simply because safety rules apply. The registration will inform you that a wise man will always inspect his vessel before launching out to sea. Even if you have never used your new boat, a wise man will conduct a 'Pre-launch inspection.'

Now, you want to know why reports in the news tell you about accidents midstream while kayaking…it is because the kayaker ignored the Hull rules, i.e. pre-launch inspecting before he entered the waters. Likely, he thought, 'I am sure my boat is seaworthy.' In kayaking, there is no such thing as sure.

How do I carry my boat to the ledge? First consider, is the area high? Are you launching from a dock? Do you intend to launch your vessel from a jetty?

Are you prepping for a competition race? Most competitors' boats are lightweight. This enables them to carry the boat to the edge of the waters single-handedly. Single boats can be grasped with one hand at the gunwale (ledge of the kayak) and another hand in the center of the boat. You lift the boat onto the hip, which is convenient, since you can also launch your vessel into the waters while in this position. You merely drop one end into the water and then push the boat over your (either one) thigh into the waters. You will need a yoke if you intend to carry the kayak over your head, i.e. the standard boats.

If you have a modern vessel and another passenger both of you can carry the boat to the edge of the water. One person can handle the boat at the center, while the other person can grab hold of the stern or bow. If you choose this method you can also launch your kayak into the water successfully. As for boarding, you will always place on foot into the center of the kayak first, while using the boat to support your weight. Boarding kayaks is tricky, so you want to lower your body into the cockpit, and move toward the center of the boat simultaneously. The bow will lift, which prepares you for position.




Yes, but how can I consider kayak trips?
If you are reading this article how to board, launch, carry, and follow rules, you should not be planning a trip at this time. Instead, you should be reading the articles that tell you how basic and advanced strokes work. You should also read how to perform rolls to escape capsizing.