Inflatable Kayak Canoe
Would you love to try kayaking or just kayak more but cannot fathom yourself lugging around a 150+ pound kayak every time you want to get out on the water? Then an inflatable kayak canoe might just be the perfect thing for you. These days’ inflatable kayaks are built incredibly sturdy and versatile. Many of them can hold up to 500 pounds, but only usually weighs less 40lbs. itself. You can purchase a single inflatable kayak or one that will carry two adults and gear, and it only requires one adult to carry it to the water.
The inflatable kayak canoe (such as the Tributary Tomcat Solo) packs down to fit in a storage bag, but has ample cargo space for camping supplies and gear. An inflatable canoe can be used for paddling on a smooth quiet lake, cruise a gentle river, or even blasting down a white water river, as well as fishing, yacht tending or skin diving. For river runners, the inflatable kayaks can handle up to class three whitewater. In many ways, these are the easiest to use, the most versatile and the most fun!
The price tag for inflatable kayak canoes are much less than those made of the durable plastic or fiber glass. At around $300 you can get a brand new one that should last well over 10+ years with simple patch kits available if needed.
Kayaking is really one of the easiest sports for anyone to begin and by having your very own kayak you can visit the lake, river, or go camping and enjoy the nature in a completely different way.
Check out this video below of an inflatable Kayak:
Take A Kayaking Journey Through Hawaii
The chance to vacation in Hawaii is a rare opportunity for some people. Nearly everyone daydreams about feeling the sand between their toes while sipping on a pina-colada. So, if given the chance to visit Hawaii, it’s not likely one would pass it up. With miles of sandy-white beaches and emerald-green waters, it’s a place enjoyed by people of all ages. But unlike the other 49 states of America, Hawaii isn’t just one solid mass of land that can be explored through driving; it’s a chain of islands that represent the entire state. Therefore, there’s no better way to check out this amazing land of paradise than by kayak!
There are wonderful opportunities for kayaking on nearly every island of Hawaii. No matter what part of the state you plan to visit, a kayaking adventure is available at every corner. If you are planning to be in Kauai, this is a prime location for some of the best Hawaiian kayaking adventures. You can explore the waters around Hanalei Bay and have a chance to see some breathtaking Hawaiian wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the sight of bottle-nose dolphins and a beautiful assortment of aquatic birds. Kauai is also known for its many small rivers and streams that flow into the tropical rainforest, so take advantage of the opportunity to see some exotic animals and plants first-hand.
The east coast of Oahu is also a great spot to experience kayaking. Oahu is known to be one of the most relaxing places for a smooth-sailing kayaking trip. This area offers some of the calmest and serene waters in Hawaii, giving you the chance to take in some sightseeing while enjoying your time in the sun. Because of the many, small islands that surround Oahu’s coast, you can stop for a picnic lunch during your kayaking adventure.
Maui is an island of Hawaii that offers several kayaking options and adventures. Maui is home to Honolulu Bay marine preserve, where you can experience some excellent snorkeling or scuba diving. The waters surrounding Maui are ideal for the beginning kayaker, as conditions are usually calm and easy to paddle. However, if you are an experienced kayaker and looking for a challenge, then explore the island of Molokai. Here, the waters are known to be a bit rougher and offer quite a physical challenge. Please be advised that this area should be reserved for only the experienced kayakers.
If you’ve never been kayaking before, the good news is that you don’t need any experience in order to enjoy a kayaking trip in Hawaii. Kayaking is a wonderful activity that’s ideal for people of all ages and skill level. If you book a guided tour, you will be taken to only the places with calm and quiet waters that require little physical exertion. In fact, kayaking in Hawaii is an activity that can be enjoyed by nearly every member of your family and is an excellent way to get in your sightseeing!
Kayaking in San Diego-Take a Guided Tour
Take a look around the city of San Diego, and you’re likely to see everyone getting around on bike or by trolley. While it’s true that San Diego is full of sites and attractions, very few people realize that kayaking in San Diego is also ideal way to experience the city. In fact, some of the best scenery of San Diego is only seen from the water, and kayaking is an excellent way to take in all of the sights and sounds of this “big little city”.
Start your kayaking in San Diego adventure by taking a tour of the La Jolla Sea Caves. While it sounds like it may be an intimidating experience, it’s actually a very pleasant and fun outdoor adventure! Beginning at the La Jolla Shores, you can paddle your way through an outdoor paradise while you view areas of San Diego’s coast. Before reaching the historical sea caves, you’ll have a chance to get up close and personal with sea lions, stingrays, and other aquatic life that reside within these canals. In fact, it’s even said that harbor seals sit perched among the rocks of the water and “wave” at their visitors who pass by!
However, kayaking in San Diego is just as fun in the fall and winter as it is in the summer. Winter is known to be a season of hibernation and mating, and that’s exactly what you’ll find as you explore Baja’s Pacific Coast! During the colder seasons, gray whales leave their homeland of the Arctic Ocean and make their way to the inviting warmth of Baja. In the months of December and January, the whales mate and give birth. Take advantage of a guided tour from La Jolla Shores during this time, and experience the thrill of viewing these amazing animals in person.
If you plan to visit San Diego with small children, there are opportunities for them to experience the fun of kayaking as well. In areas of Monterey and Elkhorn Slough, there are very calm and tranquil waters that are perfect for children and families. Monterey Bay offers fascinating history and abundant marine life, while Elkhorn Slough is an excellent kayaking route for the nature and wildlife lover. (Often, you can spot several breeds of exotic birds.) The children will love the feeling of paddling through the water on a boat, and adults will enjoy the quiet ride while taking in some sightseeing.
If you’ve ever dreamed of catching the biggest fish among your friends and family, then look into opportunities for kayak fishing around Monterey Bay. While this area is known for its calm and peaceful surroundings, it is also home to some of California’s best fishing. There are several classes offered in the area and guided tours and trips directed towards kayak fishing.
With so many amazing opportunities for kayaking in San Diego, you are sure to find the water adventure that’s right for you and your family! You may want to look into the Family Kayak Adventure Center and book a tour now.
Hawaii Kayak Destinations
Hawaii kayak destinations can be as peaceful as a solitary paddle trip along a tranquil river or as wild as a rough ocean adventure. Popular kayaking destinations can be found on Kauai, Maui and Molokai. Some of the most beautiful areas in Hawaii are extremely difficult to access via land but kayaking gives paddlers immediate access to appreciate and enjoy nature’s beauty.
Kauai is the only Hawaiian island with a river suitable river for kayaking. Wailua River on the eastern side of the island is a favored destination. The right side of the river is reserved for kayaking.
Wailua River Valley was once reserved for royalty. It is still considered sacred and special by many. The river is typically gentle with little current and perfect for those looking to hawaii kayak.
Lush tropical foliage, beautiful exotic blooming flowers, ancient ruins, sacred waterfalls, old Hawaiian villages, pristine canyons and tropical rain forests are just a portion of the scenic beauty kayakers can experience.
Several tour companies operate in the region. Single, double, and triple kayaks are available for rent. The Secret Falls and Fern Grotto are popular Hawaii kayaking destinations.
There are times when access to one or more areas (such as the grotto) is restricted but there’s so much more to see that kayakers aren’t left with time on their hands.
Maui, hawaii kayak tours include beginner tours, Makena tours and Honolua Bay tours. Kayak surfing tours are available and at least one tour company welcomes physically challenged kayakers.
Kayaking Makena Landing gives paddlers the opportunity to see turtles, eels, octopus, reef sharks, tropical fish and
occasionally whales or dolphins.
The secluded and beautiful Pali Sea Cliff area features rugged shoreline, sharp sea cliffs and stunning coral reefs. Hawaiian green sea turtles are a highlight of kayaking Makena Bay.
Honolua Bay is a marine reserve. The coral reef teems with fish. Kayaking here does require paddling into moderately strong trade winds.
Kayaking Hawaii’s Molokini Crater allows kayakers to access areas powerboats can get to. Some of the island’s most spectacular sea life is said to be found here.
Molokai is best reserved for experienced kayakers. Ocean swells and rough waves make paddling too difficult and dangerous for beginners. The island’s undeveloped north shore may be paddled from east to west but kayakers rarely paddle the return route. Ten mile-per-hour winds make the trip a rough one.
Kayaking Hawaii’s Kona coast gives paddlers the opportunity to explore Kealakekua Bay, Keahou, Ho’okena, Honaunau and Kailua.
Kealakekua Bay is the most protected deep water bay and is designated a Marine Life Conservation District. The Bay was the home of many Hawaiian Chiefs and is where Captain Cook landed. A Captain Cook monument stands there today.
Across the bay, kayakers will find pristine reefs where over 250 species of fish have been identified. Glass kayaks can be rented in Kona, making kayaking Hawaii a truly amazing and different experience.
Keahuou Bay, birthplace of Kamehameha the great, boasts calm waters. Kayakers paddling along the south cliffs will pass sea caves. One of the sea caves can often be entered by kayak, making for a unique Hawaiian kayaking experience.
Hawaii kayak trips can be a tranquil experience or an adrenalin rush. From tropical waterfalls to rushing rapids, from sea caves to historical ruins, paddlers can choose the perfect kayak trip.
Summertime Fun Canoe & Kayaking
As summer approaches, we often look for activities to do outside and on the water. Two of the most popular summertime activities are canoe & kayaking, mainly because they are easily done by anyone of any age, skill level, or ability. Its best to know how to swim before you venture into any water sport. These activities are very relaxing and provide excellent opportunities for fun in the sun. But if you’ve never set sail for the waters before, you may not know where to begin to plan your canoeing and kayaking adventure. Here’s some helpful advice to help you sort out the details and get out on the water!
There is essentially little or no difference between canoe & kayaking. Both offer a calming ride on the lake or streams and both are physically undemanding. The best approach to experiencing the excitement of canoeing and kayaking is to scout out guided tours. Unless you plan to visit the lake several times, there is no need to purchase your own canoeing and kayaking equipment. This can rack up quite a large bill, as canoes generally run $800 or higher, and that’s not including other equipment needed such as paddles and clothing. You can look for canoe & kayaking tours locally or in other parts of the country, depending on your desire to travel. Below is a list of popular locations in the United States for canoeing and kayaking.
1. Medford, Oregon – This is home to Crater Lake National Park and the Rogue River, which is known to be home to some of the best outdoor activities in the United States. The river is Class II-IV rapids, which require little or no experience to enjoy canoeing and kayaking.
2. Haines, Alaska – This is an ideal location for ocean kayaking surrounding Glacier Bay National Park. Here, you have the opportunity to spot bears, manatee, and other arctic wildlife along Alaska’s banks. Many Alaskan kayaking tours require little to no to participate in the guided tours.
3. Miami – Dade County, Florida – An excellent location to experience fun in the sun through canoeing and kayaking, while having the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive. Coral Gables provides a chance to explore magical sea caves and view underwater aquatic life. Several tour companies are in the area with packages starting as low as $40 per person, $30 per child.
4. San Diego, California – Explore the La Jolla Sea Caves for a glimpse of a true marine paradise. Catch views of sea lions, whales, and occasionally dolphins. No experience is necessary and typical guided tours are two hours long.
Now that you have a few suggestions of where to go, you may be wondering what to bring for your canoe & kayaking adventure. Be sure to pack quick-drying clothes, such as synthetic shorts, tops, and jackets. Even kayaking in the summertime can lead to unexpected emergencies, and you need to have water-resistant clothes available. Make sure to bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen, as the sun is much stronger when reflecting off the water. Pack a couple water bottles and small snacks in case you or a member of your family need a quick energy boost, and always bring along a first aid kit containing instant cold packs, band-aids, gauze, and other small items just in case an emergency arises.
Kayaking Journey- Kayaking Basics
Nothing is more thrilling than a kayaking journey! Kayaking can be recreational as well as adventuresome. Some kayakers are serious about their sport, even those that use it as a simple way to relax and view nature. Kayaking gives many an opportunity to see the world from a different perspective and, if they so desire, to push themselves against Mother Nature’s wildest rivers and rapids with whitewater and rive kayaking.
Basic Kayak Terms:
Basic kayak terms include bow, bilge pump, bulkhead, chine, demo boat, dry bag and stern.
-The bow is the front of the kayak.
-A bilge pump is a hand pump used to remove large amounts of water from the inside of the kayak.
-The bulkhead is a vertical partition inside the kayak. It’s usually made of foam. It serves two purposes. It reinforces the hull and aids flotation.
-The chine are the edges of the kayak. The term refers to changes in angle.
-A demo boat is a demonstration boat dealers use to allow kayak drivers to test drive specific models or styles.
-The dry bag is a waterproof bag used to keep items dry. The bag is available in a variety of sizes for large or small items. -The stern is the back of the kayak.
Basic Kayak Equipment
Basic kayak equipment includes kayak, paddle, life jacket or PFD, helmet and spray skirt.
Kayakers choose a kayak to fit the type of kayaking they plan to do. There are different types of kayaks for recreational kayaking, sea kayaking, and rocky river or creek kayaking. The individuals height and weight will affect kayak size.
Kayaking paddles come in multiple styles. Kayaker size and paddling style play a part in determining which type of paddle will be used.
Personal flotation devices or life jackets are required by law on most bodies of water. The Type III PFDs are legal for kayaking. Proper fit is vital.
Kayakers can choose helmets that reflect their style and personal tastes if they wish. Helmets are now available in a wide variety of colors and designs. In addition to the basic kayaking style helmet, there are helmets which include protection for the face. These resemble football helmets and are used when extra protection is required.
Spray skirts are used to keep the wearer dryer and to keep water out of the kayak. A properly fitted spray skirt seals the cockpit. Spray skirt style varies according to kayak style. The best spray skirt is made of neoprene. Sea kayaking spray skirts often contain both neoprene and nylon. Nylon spray skirts are often used in recreational kayaking.
Kayak Trails
There are kayak trails mapped out on many United States rivers and other waterways. Kayakers can choose short or long rides, wild or calm rides. Some of the National Forests feature kayak trails.
Kayak Tours
Kayaking is a way to see the United States and even the world from a unique view point- one of being in tune with nature and its elements. Kayak tours abound all globally. Kayakers can paddle through the area in Hawaii where Jurassic Park was filmed. They can see killer whales up close while sea kayaking in Alaska. Brave kayakers can shoot the rapids all around the world.
Kayaking is here to stay and truly allows individuals of all ages, athletic abilities, and stamina a chance to go places that can’t be accessed any other way. You can calmly paddle the waters of still lakes, enjoy nature, renew an acquaintance with the world without the intrusion of technology, or really push yourself and enjoy it more as an active intense sport.
Alaskan Kayaking Tours
Alaskan Kayaking Tours gives boaters an opportunity to enjoy relaxing wilderness scenery or to test their limits in the frozen wilderness. Alaska is home to the nation’s largest national park. Both the park and the state have much to offer beginning and experienced kayakers. Tours and rental kayaks are available for kayak experiences throughout the state. Below is a list for some of the best Alaskan Kayaking Tours.
Le Conte Glacier Bay
Le Conte Glacier Bay is a 12 mile fjord carved out of the mountain range by glaciers. Le Conte Glacier is the southernmost tidewater glacier in North America. It is an active glacier, fracturing and calving constantly, filling the bay with thousands of icebergs.
Kayak day trips through the bay give boaters a glimpse of lush forests, ancient, sheer rock walls, thundering waterfalls and icebergs in every imaginable shape and size. Kayaking Le Conte lets boaters see and experience the majestic and sometimes fierce side of Alaskan nature.
Big Creek on Frederick Sound
The Kupreanof Island coastline offers miles of beaches and coves waiting to be appreciated by sea kayakers kayaking Alaska. Marine mammals in the area include stellar sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals and pacific humpback whales. River otters and bald eagles also call the island home.
Tebenkof Bay
Tebenkof Bay encompasses 65,000 acres of coves, bays and small islands – a dream destination for Alaska kayaking. The area is one of the most remote and wild parts of southeast Alaska.
Tlingit once lived there. No humans reside there now. Black bears, wolves, and Sitka black-tailed deer inhabit the area.
Stikine River
The Stikine River is the largest, navigable undammed watershed in North America. The river flows more than 400 miles from head waters in British Columbia to the Alaskan Delta.
Flat-water paddling the Stikine takes boaters through areas once used by natives and gold-seekers. Kayakers can visit a hot spring, view the towering Cottonwood trees of Ketili River and see salmon spawning.
Prince William Sound
Prince William Sound is said to offer some of the best kayaking in Alaska. 7,000 miles of ocean, river deltas, tidal flats and glaciers make up the Sound.
Shoup Glacier, unique because it can lay claim to not one but two tidal basins, boasts the fastest growing Kittiwake rookery in the Sound with over 20,000 birds and 6,000 nests.
Columbia Glacier, aka the world’s speediest glacier, is currently the largest glacier in Prince William Sound and the second largest glacier in Alaska. The glacier is moving backwards as much as 4 feet per day during the summer months.
Kayakers can take a boat to the glacier then set out via kayak to paddle among icebergs and through bays that motorized boats cannot access. Harbor seals, sea otters, sea lions, bears and whales are likely to be seen. Such areas are what sea kayaking Alaska are all about.
Sitka Sound
Experienced sea kayakers will find wilderness beaches, bioluminescent waters, and experience kayaking in ocean swells, rock gardens, sea cliffs and outer caves while paddling Sitka.
Coastal tide pools and kelp forests abound. Eagles, otters, seals, porpoises and whales call the area home, as do many smaller animals.
Less experienced kayakers will still find plenty of Alaskan beauty to tour.
Tongass National Forest
Tongass National Forest is America’s northernmost rain forest and the largest national forest in America. Almost 17 million acres, or over 20,625 square miles, make up Tongass forest. Saltwater and fresh water kayaking opportunities abound in this part of Alaska.
The Tongass is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. Black and brown bears, caribou, sheep and goats call the forest home. So do moose, bald eagles, foxes, beavers and other small animals. Swans and hummingbirds are two of the birds boaters are likely to glimpse.
The destinations mentioned here are just a few of the many Alaska kayaking opportunities for beginning and experienced kayakers. Paddling among glaciers, kayaking in sea caves, and seeing Alaska’s wildlife in their natural habitat are some of the reasons kayakers visit the state.