How to Paddle a Two-Person Kayak

Exploring the waters using a tandem, or two-person, kayak is an ideal way for two paddlers to share and experience the water together. Typically, tandems are wider than single boats and offer more stability. Paddling with another person takes practice and requires teamwork. One paddler can take full control and take a passenger for a ride, but the quickest way to navigate the waters is for the occupants to paddle together.

Instructions

    • 1

      Arrange seating so that the stronger paddler sits in the stern and the weaker paddler sits at the bow.

    • 2

      Paddle in unison to navigate the kayak forward and avoid clashing the paddles. Teamwork and communication are necessary when paddling with a partner. Talk about your stroke selection and direction before commencing. Paddle with steady and consistent strokes to keep the boat from rocking. Allow the front, or bow, paddler to set the pace and to decide when to switch sides. The stern paddler should match the front paddler's pace while steering the kayak.

    • 3

      Turn by paddling on the opposite side from your partner. Allow the front paddler to take a forward sweep on one side as the stern paddler makes a reverse or backward sweep on the opposite side. The kayak will pivot when the movements are made simultaneously.