There are lots of different ways to get into a kayak. The only real rule is to `get your butt into the boat quickly'. It's that awkward transition between standing and sitting where 99 percent of the carnage occurs.
From a Dock
Getting into a kayak from a dock can be tricky, especially on higher docks. You're best off getting the help of one of your friends to hold the boat while you get in. If you're the last person getting on the water, one of your friends can pull up alongside your kayak and help stabilize it from there. Either way, start by floating your kayak in close, alongside the dock, and then sit on the dock and place your feet in the cockpit. Keep your weight on the dock and make sure that your feet are close to the centerline of the hull. Rotating towards the bow of your boat, get a good grip on the dock with both hands, and then lower yourself into the seat while sliding your legs into the boat. Get into the habit of placing your paddle within easy reach, so you'll be able to grab it once you're in your boat.
Getting out involves the same steps, but in reverse. Once again, it will be very helpful to have one of your paddling friends stabilize your kayak either from the dock or from their kayak.
On a Beach
If you're getting into your kayak on a beach, you can do so with your boat resting on the sand. You can then push yourself out in the water or have a friend give you a push. Of course, it makes sense to do this as close to the water as possible. Ideally, you'll be able to get into your kayak in an inch or two of water so that it only takes a couple of little pushes to take off.
Getting into and out of your kayak on a beach that has surf is a bit trickier and is something that we'll look at in the `Surf' chapter of this book.
On Rocky Shore
On rocky launch sites, where sliding in from shore could damage your kayak, the best way to get into your kayak involves floating your kayak in the water and then using your paddle as an outrigger for stability. This is done by placing your paddle at ninety degrees to the kayak with one blade on shore and with the shaft resting on the boat behind the cockpit. While cheating your weight onto the outrigger for support, grasp the paddle behind your back, squat down beside the kayak, and then slip your legs into the boat. Throughout the maneuver, be sure to maintain a slight lean onto the outrigger side of the kayak to avoid flipping in the opposite direction.
You can get out of your kayak on uneven or rocky shorelines using this same technique in reverse, although it will be difficult if you have any surf to contend with.
This is a segment from a new book by Ken Whiting and Alex Matthews, called `Touring & Sea Kayaking - An Essential Guide'. For more information and to see a sample of the book, visit The Heliconia Press website - www.helipress.com
Ken Whiting is a World Champion Kayaker and the author and producer of an award winning series of instructional kayaking books and videos. In 2000 he was recognized by Paddler Magazine as one of their `Paddlers of the Century'. For more information, visit www.helipress.com