Author: Doreen Murgatroyd
Rivers, lakes, coast, mountains, wild life, bird life, fishing, sailing, experience the great outdoors. All these can be seen and enjoyed from a kayak. Take along a camera to capture unforgettable moments.
Kayaking is fun, and it’s exercise too. Sometimes dangerous, (don’t try whitewater until you have some experience), often exhilarating and there is always something to strive for. The Eskimo roll for instance, is how you right yourself when you find yourself upside down in the water while still in your kayak. “Can anyone paddle a kayak?” you ask. Anyone can start to paddle a kayak. Take it slow. Start on still water on inland lakes. Wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device – like a life jacket), and get one your size. Take along a cell phone and a compass. Oh, and insect repellent!
“Where do I start?” you ask. Actually, two places. The first is to decide where you want to go. Phone up your local authority and find out where the nearest popular place for still water is. Ask what rules and regulations apply to kayaking there. (Usually you do not need a licence or certificate.) Check where you can launch your kayak from – there should be some spots where it’s possible to go down to the waters edge and launch, without joining a club. The second step is to decide what type of kayak to buy. There is so much choice.
Perhaps, as it’s a first, start at the inflatable kayak level. Inflatables weigh very little, so they are easy to transport. If you are conscious of being environmentally friendly – deflated – they may be transported by bicycle. They also very easily fit into a car boot or a roof-pod, widening your choice of destinations, since you will be able to go places which might be difficult if your car was pulling a trailer.
And, if you really don’t want to splurge a lot of money on a sport you’re only just trying out, then here are two suggestions. For under $100, the solo K1 Challenger by Intex, weighs in at 27¾ lbs. For 2 people, at under $120, there is the Challenger K2, 40lbs, by Intex or the Sevylor Tahiti Classic, 25lbs. Some points to note:
1. The oars don’t necessarily come with the kayak. They usually need to be bought separately.
2. If you’re going into out-of-the-usual places, pack a picnic.
3. Check out the pump which comes with inflatables. Some of them are said to take a while to do their
some deals. For more detailed information, go to http://www.theboatingstore.co.cc.
About the author:
The author is a retired high school teacher of geography and maths. Try ‘Quick Compare 35 Brand Name Kayaks’ to help you make a choice. Also if you would like a free ebook – an unusual story set in the days of sailing by well-known and respected author Joseph Conrad, ‘The Secret Sharer’ or a book about travel in El Salvador ‘Slow Bus To Ahuachapan’ by John Drewman then use the email address on the website to request them.
