How To Get In a Kayak?

If you are into open water adventures, you might be interested in trying out kayaking as a new hobby.

It is one of the best ways to explore and enjoy nature. Plus, it is a versatile watersport that you and your friends can do together.

Kayaking is not so complicated as others might think. Still, before you understand the basics, you must first learn how to get in a kayak.

As disappointing as it may seem, getting in and out of this vessel looks awkward, but it gets easier over time.

Getting To Know Your Kayak

Before we get to the techniques to get in and out of a kayak, let’s talk about its essential parts first.

This way, you’d be able to get to know your vessel better.

Bow

In its simplest explanation, the bow is the front part of all kinds of boats, not just kayaks.

Cockpit

The cockpit in a kayak is where you, as the paddler, sits.

It is usually the large opening between and the bow and the rear of the vessel.

Deck

Whatever kayak type you have, the deck is the topside or the top of the vessel exposed to the sun.

Hatch

When you are out in the water, you will need some kind of storage for your gears in whatever boat type you are in.

The hatch is the compartment just below the deck where you put away your stuff.

Most hatches are waterproof and are closed shut using elastic band covers.

Hull

The main body or the bottom part of the kayak that sits in the water is called the hull.

Most traditional kayaks come with a V-shaped keel and a displacement hull.

Keel

The keel is the bottom-middle part forming a “V” shape under the kayak.

It may vary in size depending on your vessel’s design.

With its depth, it helps the kayak’s forward motion, preventing it from tipping over or turning side to side.

Stern

Similar to a bow, the stern is the rear of all kinds of water vessels. The right side is called the starboard, while the left is the aft.

Toggle Handle

The toggle handle is connected to the kayak’s bow and stern by a rope, making it easier to carry, tow, launch, and even transport.

How To Get In a Kayak?

Learning how to get in and out of a kayak is the first step to mastering this exciting and relaxing sport.

You might find it challenging during the first few tries, but don’t lose hope.

Though through constant practice, you will feel more comfortable and do it effortlessly over time.

Consequently, we have found some techniques for getting in a kayak for you to try.

Make sure you have everything close at hand or nearby for you to reach before trying them out.

On a Beach or Ramp

Launching your kayak on a beach or a ramp is easier if part of the boat is halfway through the water.

It should be at the right angle to the shoreline so that it’s easier to slide into deeper waters.

Some water enthusiasts tend to forget that, though.

Allow the kayak to float on water if you are launching from a cement ramp, hesitant to let your boats slide across the sand, or on shallow waters.

However, you might need someone’s assistance to keep your kayak stable as you try to get in and settle.

Once the kayak is on the water, straddle it from behind the cockpit rim, sit down, and slowly bring one foot at a time inside.

Straighten your legs when both feet are in the cockpit and then slide into the seat.

Also, try bending your knees slightly if your kayak has thigh braces so that you can fit them in.

For sit-on-top kayaks, just swing your legs on the boat and then push it off before you start paddling into the water.

How do you get out of the kayak on a beach? This step may be as challenging as getting in.

First, position your kayak perpendicular to the shoreline, similar to how you started. Paddle up to the sand until it stops.

Then, bring your foot out on the side one at a time so that you end up straddling the kayak.

You must push yourself forward by grabbing the front of the cockpit.

Try standing up once you get to balance yourself and climb out of the kayak.

From a Dock

Getting in your kayak from a dock is easier if you have someone with you for assistance.

However, if you are alone at the time, try bringing your kayak close to the lowest part of the water parallel to the dock.

Then, sit on the dock next to the kayak and put your feet on the cockpit without standing up.

Turn your body towards the bow and lower it quickly to the boat.

Maintain your grip on the dock as you get into the kayak. You can loosen your hold once you have settled into the boat.

Do the opposite technique when getting out of the kayak.

Basically, you’ll want to pull up on the lowest part of the water and hold onto the dock for stability.

As you gain your balance, slowly stand up and get out of the kayak onto the dock.

Another strategy you can try is to get out of the vessel butt first by sitting on the dock and keeping your feet in the kayak until you can lift them out completely.

On a Rocky Shoreline

If you are getting in a kayak from a rocky shoreline, you can utilize your paddle to gain stability as you try to get in and out of it.

First, align the kayak to the shoreline while positioning the paddle horizontally across the cockpit’s stern side.

Make sure you leave half of the oar crossing the boat while the other half is on the shore.

To get in, sit on the shore facing the bow as you put your feet inside the cockpit.

Next, hold the paddle about shoulder-width from behind you to help you find stability.

As you become stable, hold onto the paddle securely while shifting your weight into the kayak.

The best way to ensure stability is to place the majority of your weight to the side of the paddle leaning on the shore.

You can get out of your kayak from a rocky shoreline by reversing the process mentioned above.

From Deep Water

Getting into your kayak from deep water is a challenging entry method, especially for beginners.

More than anything, you will need patience and practice to do it properly.

Ensuring that your kayak remains stable with your every movement is crucial until you are safely settled inside.

Here’s how to get in your kayak when you are in deep water.

First, extend one arm and hold the far side of the cockpit while your other hand grasps the part close to you.

Then, pull yourself up on the kayak until your navel is over the seat while part of your legs is still midway in the water.

As you twist and move around, most of your body should be in the kayak, even though your legs are still dangling.

After that, make sure you find balance and stability as you put your feet inside the kayak to make yourself comfortable.

Getting out of the kayak is as easy as doing the exact opposite of what you did when getting in.

To make things easier, try paddling closer to the land or shallow water first.

Then, as you bring your feet out from the boat, try to gain your balance and stand up.

How to Sit in Your Kayak Properly

Again, learning how to get in and out of a kayak is just the first step.

For the best experience, you will also want to know how to sit in your kayak correctly.

Most recreational kayaks provide adjustable back support, allowing you to lean back as if sitting on a recliner.

This position may feel relaxing at home but not when you need to balance as you try to paddle your way through the water.

Proper posture is crucial to maintain back health, keeping you comfortable while sitting in your kayak even for an extended period.

You can make use of the adjustable back support on a kayak by positioning it upright to aid you in sitting up straight.

Proper posture means you must sit with your chest lifted as you try to balance your head.

Also, you will want to put your legs in an open position to reduce the stress on your lower back.

Incorrect posture may cause discomfort and pain in your lower back while kayaking or even after the activity.

Apart from proper posture, you can also perform paddling stretches to improve your flexibility, ensuring comfort during your kayaking adventure.

Conclusion

Knowing how to get in a kayak is the first thing you need to learn to enjoy this versatile water sport.

If you are just starting, there is an abundance of the best kayaks for beginners online, depending on what you need.

With constant practice and lots of patience, getting in and out of a kayak like a pro will become a breeze.