Ocean kayaking involves taking a kayak out on the waters for a day of activities and physical fitness. AllKayaking.com states that most ocean kayaks are made from Kevlar, fiberglass or molded plastic. Ocean kayaks are designed to withstand harsh sea waters and turbulence. Ocean kayaks are operated with a paddle and often have hatches for storing personal items. Ocean kayaking is best enjoyed along the perimeter of the ocean near bays and beaches.
Types
KayakHelp.com showcases several different styles and designs of ocean kayaks. There are generally three main types to choose from: single, angler and tandem. Single types allow the operator to maneuver and be in control of the kayak at all times. This is important for ocean kayaking because of the unpredictability of the water current and waves. Single kayaks called Surf Skis have a long narrow design that are better capable of riding ocean waves and surf. Anglers are also single ocean kayaks but have accessories such as pole holders and added storage for fisherman. Tandem kayaks are for two people. The advantage to tandem ocean kayaks is allowing two people to interchange between paddling and directing the kayak through ocean waters.
Equipment and Gear
KwikKayak.com shares some equipment and gear you may need for ocean kayaking. A spray skirt will help keep your clothes dry. A wet suit and waterproof shoes are also recommended for loading and unloading. Ocean kayaks often come equipped with two important pieces of equipment: rudders and a skeg. Rudders are attached at the stern of the boat and assist with easy maneuvering. Skegs are blades that assist with paddling and guiding the kayak in rough ocean waters.
Safety
Ocean Kayak states that safety procedures should be followed at all times when operating the kayak. One of the most important things to know how to do is re-enter a flipped kayak in an ocean setting. GORP explains that if you are pulled under or are straddling the side of the kayak and water is treacherous, a brace stroke or eskimo roll could save your life. An eskimo roll requires the kayaker to lean forward tightly with your face near the paddle that is going under. This protects your head from a blunt force from a rock or other object that may be under the kayak.
Technique
Every body of water requires a slightly different form of maneuver or technique. For ocean kayaking, paddling is very important because the water can be unpredictable. Active Kayak demonstrates some pointers for heading out to sea. First, know how to perform certain strokes such as the draw, reverse and forward strokes so you can paddle in the right direction. This is important when on the ocean waters because of large sea life such as whales and obstacles such as reefs and rocks that can appear unexpectedly.
Destinations
People use their kayaks to engage in both competitive racing and non-competitive kayaking. Alaska is a great location for many kayakers. It offers wildlife and sea life excursions throughout the Gulf of Alaska and its surrounding tributaries. The Maine coastline offers a variety of hidden rivers and coves that challenge kayakers with its rough waters and rocky terrain. Rosarito Beach in Mexico offers whale watching and observation of various marine life such as fish and sea lions.
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