Can Anyone Go Kayaking?

As you may know, we updated and improved our new location with the addition of paddle boards and recreational kayaks! Our new location is surrounded by spectacular nature, and we’re excited to offer a quiet and peaceful way to explore the area. 

You want to give it a try but you don’t know anything about kayaks? Let us walk you through this great activity and go on a kayaking adventure!

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s important to take safety precautions before heading out on the water

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

Florida is well known for its abundant waterways and beautiful natural landscape, and as such, kayaking is a popular activity in the state. Here are the general rules in Florida.

Unlike motorized boats, which must be registered with the government, non-motor-powered vessels like kayaks are specifically exempted from this requirement.

There is no minimum age for operating a kayak in Florida, making it a great activity for both adults and children alike.

Kayakers in Florida only need to have one life jacket per person.

During periods of restricted visibility or low light conditions such as dusk or dawn, kayakers are required to carry some form of illumination device such as a flashlight or lantern on board.

And lastly, while boating under the influence is strictly prohibited in Florida regardless of vessel type, BUI laws are slightly less stringent for non-motorized vessels – with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% considered legally under the influence if you’re under 21 years old. 

CAN NON SWIMMERS GO KAYAKING?

Technically you can kayak wherever your boat is comfortable in the water. A kayak could easily float on shallow water as long as it hasn’t been overloaded and the depth of water is enough for you to paddle efficiently. In shallow water, many non-swimmers are comfortable standing and stepping out in the water to leave. 

DO KAYAKS FLIP EASILY?

No, a kayak is not designed to easily flip over. There are many factors that determine whether or not your kayak will capsize, including the type of water you’re paddling on and your kayak’s design.

If you’re planning to go kayaking on a calm river with a recreational kayak, it will be very difficult for your kayak to flip under normal circumstances. 

That said, there are some navigational maneuvers that can help prevent your kayak from flipping, such as using the proper strokes in rough waters and staying aware of your surroundings at all times. With some skill, care, and attention to detail, you can safely enjoy a day on the water in any type of kayak. 

However, regardless of these variables, one thing is certain: always wear a life jacket when going out onto the water in your kayak, as it can greatly increase your chances of staying safe and dry no matter what type of conditions you encounter.

SAFETY GEAR

2015, Florida law specifically requires life jackets to be worn when operating personal watercraft1, for children younger than six2, and for certain watersports such as skiing and tubing3. Florida law also defers to U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets, specified by type, as the authorized safety equipment on Florida waters. This bill removes language specifying the labeled “type codes” (I, II, III, IV, and V) and replaces it with the phrase “and used in accordance with the U. S. Coast Guard approval label”. 

Florida law requires the following with respect to life jackets:

.All vessels must carry one wearable life jacket for each person on board.

.Children under six years of age must wear a life jacket at all times while on any vessel less than 26 feet in length that is underway upon Florida waters. (“Underway” means any time except when the vessel is anchored, moored, docked, or aground.) 

.The life jackets must be of the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for life jackets is based on body weight and chest size.

.Kayakers and canoeists are required by Florida statutes to have a Life jacket on board, though they are not required to wear them.

As we said, we will give you a life jacket and we will, kindly, ask you to wear it even if you are older than 13. It is not to bother our 321customers, it is to protect them. 

BEGINNER KAYAKERS

ESSENTIAL GEAR 

1. Bring extra clothes : if you fall in the water or get splashed paddling, you will be happy to have dry clothes to change

2. Kayaking gloves – these will help you grip the paddle and prevent blisters.

3. Bring a waterproof hat – this will protect you from the sun and keep you dry.

4. Wear appropriate footwear- shoes that can get wet and provide good grip.

5. Dress in layers – this will allow you to adjust to changes in temperature and weather conditions.

6. Wear your buoy. You won’t look ridiculous, and you will feel more relax and confident, which is a great state of mind to learn properly new things.

HOW TO KAYAK : THE BASICS

Sitting in a kayak can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the sport. But with a little bit of practice and careful positioning, it can become second nature and help you to paddle effectively. 

HOW TO SIT ON A KAYAK

To start off, it’s important to sit up straight with your lower back and buttocks at 90 degrees to each other. You should also find foot pegs on either side of your kayak, which you can rest your feet on. Your toes should be pointed outwards, with your heels towards the center of the kayak. Finally, your knees should be bent upwards and outwards, allowing contact with the thigh braces for additional stability. With these tips in mind, anyone can learn how to sit properly in their kayak .

PADDLE STROKES

When learning to kayak, it is essential to hold your paddle the right way, orienting the paddle blades properly. To do this, start by holding the paddle with both hands about shoulder-width apart. Be sure to position the concave part of the blade facing you, and make sure that your knuckles are in line with the blade as you dip it into the water. This will ensure a smooth, effective stroke that will help propel your kayak forward. 

SAFELY KAYAK TRIP

If you’re new to kayaking, one of the most important things to remember is not to kayak alone. It’s always best to go with another person, in case you get into trouble. That way, there’s someone there who can help. There are lots of other great tips for beginners, but this is the one that I think is the most important. So next time you’re planning a kayaking trip, make sure you go with a friend. You’ll have more fun and you’ll be much safer.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Kayaking offers a myriad of health benefits, from improving stamina to boosting weight loss. 

Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a beginner just starting out, there’s no better time than now to begin reaping all the amazing health benefits that this exciting sport has to offer.

WEIGHT LOSS AND STAMINA

By participating in regular, short sessions of kayaking, you can easily increase your muscle strength and endurance levels, giving you the energy and stamina to enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, as your stamina increases, you will likely notice that you start to shed those excess pounds more quickly and easily than before. With all the health benefits of kayaking and its positive effects on weight loss and stamina, it’s no wonder that this activity is becoming so popular! 

GREAT EXERCISE

Kayaking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. In addition to working your arms, kayaking also exercises your core muscles, including your chest, shoulders, abs, and legs. Steering your boat through the water also works these muscles, making them stronger and more toned. Kayaking is a low-impact exercise, so it is gentle on your joints and muscles. This makes it a great activity for people of all ages and fitness levels. Kayaking also has many health benefits, such as improving cardiovascular health, strengthening muscles, and managing stress. So get out there and enjoy the water while getting some exercise!

A RELAXING ACTIVITY

Kayaking is a fantastic way to reduce stress and improve health. Whether you are rowing peacefully over a freshwater lake or racing down a river, the rhythmic motion of your paddles and the soothing sound of the water can work wonders for both your body and your mind. Not only does kayaking help to build strong muscles, but it also provides many health benefits by improving circulation, reducing blood pressure, and promoting calmness and serenity. Additionally, being surrounded by nature while you exercise allows you to reconnect with the world around you, giving you a much-needed break from the stress of everyday life. So if you’re looking for a relaxing activity that can help keep you fit and reduce your stress levels, then kayaking may be just the thing for you!

Conclusion

Rent a kayak today with 321BOAT!

We have the perfect rental for you no matter what your skill level is. You can choose from single or tandem boats, and if safety isn’t an issue – we provide life jackets too so there won’t be any need to worry about forgetting anything on this beautiful day

Scroll to Top