Deliberately “falling” out of a capsized kayak is a critical survival skill, because although kayaks are seaworthy craft, foul weather, rough water or simple user error can leave you upside down in the water with only a lungful of air, if that, to tide you over. If you can’t roll the capsized kayak, and your kayaking companions aren’t close enough to help you right the kayak before your air runs out, the wet exit is your only option.
Step 1
Prepare yourself for the possibility of a wet exit by attaching your spray skirt properly when you first get into the kayak. The large pull loop at the front of the spray skirt should be readily accessible, not trapped underneath the skirt.
Step 2
Hold your breath once you’re underwater. Stay calm. You can hold your breath for much longer than it takes to make a wet exit. Trap your paddle between your arm and your body so that it doesn’t float away from you. You’ll need it to get back into the kayak later.
Step 3
Lean forward and pull the release loop on your spray skirt, peeling it away from the cockpit coaming, or raised edge. If you’re having trouble finding the pull loop, place your hands on either side of the coaming and slide them forward until you find the pull loop.
Step 4
Bend forward, “falling” out of the kayak cockpit hips first. This protects you from hitting your head on any underwater obstacles. Your life vest will help bring you to the surface automatically.
Step 5
Hold onto both your kayak and your paddle. Hold the paddle in one hand or tuck it under your arm again. Hold onto the kayak with your other hand, hook one leg into the cockpit, or float on your back with both legs partway inside the cockpit to keep it from drifting away. At this point, if your kayaking companions are close enough, they can help you drain the water from your kayak, right it, and re-enter. If nobody is close enough to help, you’ll need to perform the re-entry procedure on your own.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice making wet exits in a safe, controlled environment such as a swimming pool or calm lake. You should feel competent and confident with this skill before ever putting yourself in a situation where you may need to use it. Always wear a personal flotation device while kayaking.
Things You'll Need
- Personal flotation device
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