Getting in from a shore

Sometimes there is no dock nearby so getting into the kayak will be a little trickier. Then you should find a spot where the water is calm and just deep enough, so that the kayak will not stuck into the bottom when you will sit in.

Find something that you can use as a support. For example a rock popping out of the water. First place the kayak between your legs so that the seat is right below you.

Place the paddle right behind the cockpit coaming and lean the other end against the rock. Take a firm hold from the back of the cockpit coaming so that the paddle is stuckt between your thumb and the coaming. Use your other hand to keep the paddle fixed to the rock. Now you have a fairly steady support, but be careful not to put too much pressure on the paddle as it might break.

Sit carefully over the coaming, but keep your weight still mainly on your feet.

Move your balance slightly to the foot and hand on the supported side and lift your other foot inside the cockpit. Then sit in and raise also your other foot inside the cockpit. Remember to keep your balance slightly on the supported side until you are sitting properly.

Getting out of the kayak is done in the same way but in opposite order.

TIP:

– Sometimes there are no rocks nearby so you have to improvise. One way is to ask your friend to hold your kayak still or use your paddle to get support from the bottom.