How to Enter a Kayak

When learning to enter a kayak, many beginners try to step into the boat before they sit down. Everything seems to work until the beginner tries to pull in his second foot. At that point, the kayak usually flips over and the beginner takes a swim. The key to a successful and dry entry is to keep your bottom low and sit down in the seat as soon as possible. Two different approaches work well for most beginners.

Things You'll Need

  • Kayak
  • Paddle
Show More

Instructions

  1. Seat-First Entry

    • 1

      Place the kayak completely onto the water in a shallow area.

    • 2

      Straddle the kayak over the kayak's seat.

    • 3

      Sit down into the kayak. Your legs will hang over the sides of the boat.

    • 4

      Hold your paddle out towards one side of the boat to gain balance and stability. Pull your legs into the boat.

    Paddle-Bridge Entry

    • 5

      Lay the paddle perpendicular across the back of the kayak's cockpit. Keep more length of the paddle toward the shore.

    • 6

      Face the bow of the kayak and, with your kayak-side hand, grasp the paddle shaft and the cockpit coaming, or lip. With the other hand, grasp the middle of the paddle shaft.

    • 7

      Lean the kayak toward the shore until the paddle makes contact with the shore.

    • 8

      Allow the paddle to support your weight while sliding into the cockpit. Start entering the kayak with one foot, then bring in your backside and finish with your other foot.