How to Island Hop With a Kayak

When hopping islands in a kayak, the distances between the two islands presents not only an alluring challenge but also danger and extra risk. In kayaking, you make a crossing anytime you paddle away from shore to a point where returning quickly becomes impossible. Island hopping involves multiple crossings, which makes it even more risky. Fatigue, capsizing and drifting off course present the greatest risks. (See Reference 1) Before you decide to cross between islands, manage the danger by reducing the risk factors.

Things You'll Need

  • VHF radio
  • Tidal chart
  • Compass
  • Snacks
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Train ahead of time to prepare for an island hopping adventure. During planning, determine the greatest distance between islands, and make sure that you can paddle at least that distance without becoming fatigued. In the middle of a crossing, you can't stop any weather, so make sure that you can paddle the entire distance when faced with strong wind and waves.

    • 2

      Before attempting to cross, practice braces ---- which prevents a kayak from capsizing ---- and the kayak roll, which rights a capsized kayak. Although you can reenter a kayak after a wet exit, which happens if you exit your kayak after a capsize, preventing the capsize with a brace is safer, involves less work and conserves energy.

    • 3

      Attempt the crossing only in conditions that you know you can paddle in. Check the marine forecast before setting out, and if it predicts winds and waves larger than you can handle, don't do the crossing.

    • 4

      Leave at slack tide when currents are minimal to avoid being pushed off course. Check the tidal chart for exact times.

    • 5

      Set your compass course to your destination. Aim off on long crossings to nondescript islands by setting a course upwind or up current a few degrees off the bearing to your target. When you hit the shore, turn toward your intended destination. That way, if you miss the target, you know which way to turn.

    • 6

      Leave the safety of shore and follow the course you set. If the wind or current threatens to push you off course, ferry into the wind. To ferry, angle slightly into the wind or current while you paddle, which helps to keep you on course.

    • 7

      Keep your energy up by drinking plenty of fluids and snacking often during the crossing. Consider taking a 5-minute break for every hour of paddling.

    • 8

      Adjust your course as you near the island and can see your destination.

    • 9

      Land on the island and take a break before heading on to the next island.