Kayak sailing can provide you with a welcome change from constant paddling that can tire your muscles. If you're paddling against wind or current, the sail provides an additional means of propulsion through the water. Finally, a nice breeze that moves the kayak along smartly allows you to devote your attention to the surrounding scenery.
Kayak Hull Types
Besides standard single-hull kayaks, you can attach two kayaks together to form a more stable catamaran. Stabilizer bars allow two kayaks to move as one unit, and one sail easily powers the new craft. This configuration works with two hard kayaks, two inflatable kayaks or one of each type, notes Sailboats to Go.
If you'd prefer to sail a trimaran, or three-hulled boat, the Triak features a standard kayak hull with two attached outriggers for stability. The sailing rig includes a main sail and a small spinnaker, notes Triak Sports.
Conventional Sailing Rigs
Use a spinnaker when the wind comes from behind the boat. This lightweight sail fills like a colorful balloon, and pushes you along in light winds. Fly the spinnaker in winds of up to 15 knots if you have some sailing experience, notes The Kayaking Journal. Position a main sail behind the spinnaker, and tack back and forth to catch wind coming from either side. Sailing with the main sail presents more challenges, as this sail is harder to take down if the wind increases and the boat becomes unbalanced.
Airfoil Sailing Rigs
Airfoil sailing rigs use an oddly shaped sail stiffened by horizontal battens, which are strips made of wood or flexible composite. These rigs are extremely fast, and are commonly used with leeboards to control side slippage. An outrigger helps to stabilize the fast-moving craft, notes Easy Rider Kayaks.
Sailing Rig Costs
Kayak sail costs vary with the type and complexity of the rig. For example, in 2010 a small downwind circular sail was priced at approximately $175. In contrast, a triangular-shaped, multi-paneled sail with several contact points ranged from $349 to $449. Finally, an asymmetrically shaped sail with a two-piece mast and a see-through window retailed at about $320.
Rig Familiarization
Make sure you have all required components before you rig your kayak sail. Practice the rig installation on shore. Once afloat, sail in lighter winds near the shore while you learn to handle your sails. Raft with a friend's kayak and practice sailing with a stable two-boat platform. Keep in mind that if your kayak overturns, you may need to manage the rig while attempting to right the kayak, stresses Guide4Home.
Considerations
Sailing kayaks generally function as sailboats. If you're sailing in too much wind, the kayak can overturn and dump you into the water. Your sail's power can cause the kayak to slip sideways. Minimize this trend by installing a leeboard or daggerboard to control this drift. Depending on your sailing rig and wind direction, you may need to tack back and forth to reach your desired destination.
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