When kayaking originally became a popular water activity, the kayaks were made to only accommodate one person. This obviously presented a problem in a few different areas. First, it didn’t allow for much conversation. If someone wanted to talk about their surroundings or nearby sights, they either had to shout to the closest kayak or just not talk at all. Second, if conditions became less than favorable for a kayaking excursion, there was no one to share the physical challenge with. So over time, the concept of developing a kayak for two people became reality. This is what we know today as tandem kayaking.
Tandem kayaking has become a major convenience among families. Prior to the development of tandem kayaks, kayaking wasn’t an activity cut out for families with small children. It was difficult to keep entire families together and communication was even more complicated. Now, families can take advantage of the tandem kayaking system; the multiple seats allow children to stay together and adults have an easier time providing supervision. Smaller children should be placed in the lap of an adult while tandem kayaking; larger children can sit in their own seats, typically the in the middle between the two adults. Additionally, tandem kayaking helps ease the minds of novice kayakers. Even if you’ve never been out on the water, you can still enjoy the thrills of kayaking by exploring the waters with an experienced kayaker.
However, it should be noted that convenience isn’t the only reason to experience tandem kayaking. If you are a novice kayaker, then seize the opportunity to gain experience by taking control of your tandem kayak. This often leads to the dilemma of where to sit in a tandem kayak, and that all depends on a number of factors. You definitely want to distribute the weight evenly in a tandem kayak while trying to accommodate experience and preference. For example, you would most likely place the person with the most experience in the back seat. This is because the rear of the kayak handles the majority of the steering and paddling.
However, when conditions are favorable, allow the novice kayaker to sit in the rear and try their hand at steering and guiding. After all, this is the only way to gain experience in tandem kayaking. You still want to keep in mind that the rear of a tandem kayak should have the most weight. Some tandem kayaks are not built to accommodate large people in the front. If for any reason you have to paddle the kayak alone, remember to sit in the middle seat and distribute the weight. You may need to place a cooler, luggage, or some other heavy object in the front and rear to help control the kayak.
If gaining experience isn’t a priority to you in tandem kayaking, then there are several reasons to take full advantage of sitting in the front. You can enjoy your surroundings by taking pictures or looking through binoculars, or perhaps you want to try out fishing from a kayak. Whatever your reason may be, tandem kayaking is an enjoyable way of exploring the water.
When you think of kayaking, you probably think of a relaxing journey through calm and tranquil waters aboard a small canoe-like boat. This is what kayaking is all about for the most part, but for those looking for a challenge and excitement, there's ocean kayaking. Generally speaking, ocean kayaking is at times comparable to white water rafting. Not in regards to equipment, but speed and level of activity. Therefore, ocean kayaking is typically left to those who are very experienced in the water.
Canada is an excellent location to experience the ultimate ocean kayaking. Known for its scenic beauty and natural appeal, Canada provides everything needed for your journey along the ocean. Starting at the Ucluelet Harbour along the northwest coast, you will have the chance to see some of Canada's most precious wildlife. Black bears are often spotted fishing along the shore line, and sea lions call out to you as if to say "hello" as you pass by. You'll also pass through some breathtaking waterfalls in this area (be prepared to paddle harder!) and see some historic houses and fishing boats along the shore. Barkley Sound provides an excellent opportunity for spotting unique aquatic animals, such as seahorses, sea stars, sand dollars, and natural sponges. Barkley Sound is full of mini-islands to explore, and often eagles, river otters, and sometimes whales can be viewed in this area.
Elk, California is another ideal location to experience the excitement of ocean kayaking. Here, you can paddle your way through the waters of the Pacific Ocean and explore hidden sea caves and small beaches to get a good look at some amazing wildlife. Whales are known to peep out of the water as kayaks pass through and you'll have the chance to visit with some other unique marine life. Stop for a break on the secluded beaches along Elk's coastline, and experience fishing for shellfish right from your own kayak.
If you're traveling to Hawaii, Kona is one of the best places to explore the ocean through kayaking. Here, you can get up close and personal with dolphins, explore the magical, hidden sea caves of Hawaii, and try out snorkeling to see the magnificent creatures that live beneath the water. Make your way through the cliffs of Kuamoo Bay, where you will have the chance to view the sea turtles and manta rays. Follow the shoreline to the sea caves, where you can spot coral gardens and underwater lava tubes. Tropical fish are known to make this location their home, so take advantage of this snorkeling opportunity. Not only is Kona the perfect spot for ocean kayaking, but it's known to have some of the best cliff jumping in Hawaii!
Even if you are not the most experienced in ocean kayaking, you can look for places that offer group tours. You will still need to be in average physical shape, but you can rely on others if the paddling is too much for you. A simple search of the internet will provide you with a list of tour companies and it's recommended that you call in advance to inquire about the physical requirements for ocean kayaking.
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