Kayak Sailing Information

Kayaking, the act of exploring the water in a long, narrow boat allows people to connect with nature while experiencing personal, rewarding exercise. For beginners, education unlocks a successful kayaking adventure. Learning about the different types of kayaks, how to store boats and basic strokes helps novices feel more comfortable before putting their kayak in the water. For those who wish for a bit more instruction, search your area for local kayaking courses.

  1. Types of Kayaks

    • The two main types of kayaks are sea kayaks and touring kayaks. Sea kayaks are designed to tackle the rougher water of the ocean surf more easily than a touring, or river, kayak. Touring kayaks feature a wider hull and more open cockpits when compared to sea varieties, according to the AS Watersports website. Sea kayaks and touring kayaks come in three varieties: rigid, folding and inflatable boats, according to the Kayak Online website. Rigid kayaks feature a hard shell and are generally made of plastic, fiberglass, Kevlar, carbon fiber or wood. Folding kayaks are made of waterproof fabric stretched over a wooden or metal frame. As the name suggests, folding kayaks collapse for easy storage. Inflatable kayaks are another easy-to-store option. Simply deflate the boat and dry it off.

    Storage

    • Those undertaking kayaking as a full-time hobby should think about how and where they will store their kayaks. Kayaks are generally removed from the water after a sailing adventure. It is important to develop a storage and transportation plan.

    Strokes

    • There are a few basic strokes every novice kayaker should master, according to the Kayak Session website. The website recommends that those just learning to power their kayak should begin on a lake or river with very still water. Become comfortable with the appropriate way to grip the kayak paddle by balancing the middle of your head and gripping either end with elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. Use your right hand as the control hand, meaning it never leaves the paddle. After stroking the right side through the water, loosen the left hand to turn the paddle slightly and run the left side through the water. For a forward stroke, sit straight in the kayak. Move the paddle toward your right toes, dip in the water and pull back towards you. Take the paddle out of the water once you have pulled it back to your hip and repeat on the left side. The sweep stroke is another popular stroke and allows kayakers to turn the boat. Begin by dipping the paddle in the water at your toes and lean your body in the direction you wish to turn as you pull back.

    Kayak Activities

    • While many people sail kayaks just to be on the water, they are also popular boats used in many other activities. Kayaks often feature storage hatches, making them ideal for a solidarity fishing expedition. Another benefit to learning to kayak, is that the boats small stature allows people to explore shallow water, inlets and coves that are inaccessible by other boats. Paul Lebowitz, of the Kayak Fishing Zone website, enjoys using his kayak to find, fish and relax in what he calls his “secret spot.” Years of kayaking the same waters has allowed him to undercover ideal fishing locations that others, especially those fishing from power boats are unable to access.

    Sailing

    • While it is recommended that novice kayakers begin in still waters, kayaks can be used to sail rough waters as well. In fact, once a kayaker becomes comfortable with powering his kayak, he can begin to explore flowing rivers, lakes, bays and the ocean. Advanced, adventurous kayakers often take their boats through white water rapids.