Kayaking is an exciting water sport that allows you to explore serene lakes, meandering rivers, or even the open sea. But just as important as getting into a kayak is knowing how to get out of it safely and gracefully. Whether you’re approaching the shore after a long paddle, need to take a break in the middle of the water, or are dealing with an unexpected situation, the process of exiting a kayak requires care and proper technique.
Preparation Before Exiting
Check Your Surroundings
Before attempting to get out of your kayak, take a moment to assess your surroundings. If you’re near the shore, look for any potential hazards such as rocks, shallow areas, or strong currents. In a lake, make sure there are no other boats or watercraft approaching that could pose a risk. If you’re in a river, be aware of the water flow and any obstacles in the water. For example, if you’re approaching a rocky beach, you’ll want to find a relatively clear spot to land to avoid damaging your kayak or injuring yourself.
Ensure the Kayak is Stable
A stable kayak is crucial for a safe exit. If you’re approaching the shore, try to find a calm area where the water is not too choppy. If possible, paddle the kayak parallel to the shore and slowly bring it to a stop. You can use your paddle to help steady the kayak. If you’re getting out in the middle of the water, perhaps to take a swim break, make sure the kayak is securely anchored. You can use a kayak anchor or tie it to a stationary object like a buoy (if permitted). For instance, in a small lake, you might find a sturdy tree branch near the water’s edge to tie your kayak to before getting out.
Getting Out at the Shore
Approach the Shore Slowly
As you near the shore, reduce your paddling speed. If the water is shallow, you can use your paddle to gently push against the bottom to slow down further. Aim to approach the shore at a slight angle, rather than head – on. This allows for an easier transition out of the kayak. For example, if you’re on a sandy beach, approaching at a 45 – degree angle gives you more control as you get closer to the shore.
Secure the Kayak
Once you’re close enough to the shore, you need to secure the kayak. If the water is very shallow, you can step out with one foot and hold onto the kayak with your hands. This keeps the kayak from floating away. If the water is deeper, you might need to use a rope or a bungee cord to tie the kayak to a fixed object on the shore, like a post or a tree. For instance, at a kayak launch site with a dock, you can tie the kayak to the dock cleat.
Exit the Kayak
Shift Your Weight: Sit upright in the kayak and shift your weight towards the side where you plan to exit. This helps to keep the kayak stable as you prepare to get out.
Swing Your Legs Out: Slowly swing one leg over the side of the kayak. Keep your other leg inside the kayak for balance. If you’re wearing a life jacket, make sure it doesn’t get caught on the kayak as you move.
Find Your Footing: Lower your foot into the water and feel for the bottom. If the water is shallow, you should be able to touch the ground. Once you have a firm footing, carefully transfer your weight onto that leg.
Stand Up: With your foot firmly planted on the ground, slowly stand up. Use your hands to hold onto the sides of the kayak for support. Keep your movements slow and controlled to avoid tipping the kayak.
Step Away: Once you’re standing, take a step away from the kayak. If the water is deeper, you may need to swim a short distance to the shore while holding onto the kayak.
Getting Out in Deep Water
Use a Supportive Object
If you need to get out of your kayak in deep water, you’ll need a supportive object to hold onto. This could be a dock, a buoy, or another stable watercraft. Paddle your kayak up to the object and secure it. For example, if you’re near a floating dock, gently paddle the kayak alongside the dock and use a rope to tie it to one of the dock’s cleats.
Exit the Kayak
Hold Onto the Support: Reach out and hold onto the supportive object with one hand. Make sure you have a firm grip.
Shift Your Weight: As in the previous method, shift your weight towards the side closest to the support.
Swing Your Legs Out: Swing one leg over the side of the kayak and towards the support. Keep your other leg inside the kayak for balance.
Transfer Your Weight: Carefully transfer your weight from the kayak to the support. Use your hands to help with the transition.
Get Out: Once your weight is mostly on the support, swing your other leg out of the kayak and onto the support or into the water if you plan to swim.
Special Considerations
Wearing a Life Jacket
A life jacket is your most important piece of safety equipment when kayaking. When getting out of the kayak, make sure your life jacket is properly fastened. In case of an accidental fall or if you need to swim to the shore, the life jacket will keep you afloat. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, a life jacket adds an extra layer of safety. For example, if you misjudge the depth of the water when getting out and fall in, the life jacket will prevent you from sinking.
Dealing with Wind and Currents
Wind and currents can make getting out of a kayak more challenging. If there’s a strong wind, it can push your kayak around as you try to exit. In such cases, try to find a sheltered area, like a cove or behind a large rock, to get out. Currents can also be a problem, especially in rivers. If you’re in a current, make sure to position your kayak so that the current is pushing it towards the shore or the support object, rather than pulling it away. For instance, if you’re kayaking in a river with a moderate current, approach the shore at an angle that allows the current to assist you in getting closer to the shore.
Exiting a Tipped Kayak
If your kayak tips over, don’t panic. First, stay calm and hold onto the kayak. If you’re wearing a life jacket, it will keep you afloat. Try to right the kayak if possible. You can do this by swimming to the bottom of the kayak and pushing it upright. Once the kayak is upright, you can try to get back in or use it as a support to swim to the shore. If you can’t right the kayak, use it as a flotation device and swim to safety. For example, if you’re in a lake and your kayak tips over, hold onto the side of the kayak and swim towards the nearest shore, using the kayak to help keep you afloat.
Conclusion
Getting out of a kayak is a skill that every kayaker should master. Whether you’re at the shore or in the middle of the water, following the proper techniques and taking the necessary precautions can ensure a safe and easy exit. Remember to always check your surroundings, secure the kayak, and move slowly and deliberately. By doing so, you can enjoy your kayaking adventures without worrying about a difficult or dangerous exit. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, practicing these exit techniques will make your time on the water more enjoyable and safe. So, the next time you’re out on the water in your kayak, you’ll be well – prepared to get out of it smoothly and securely.
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