 | Sea Kayaks So you're into the big time! You want a mean machine with heaps of storage that can take you to places that only a sea kayak can get to.
Just to clarify ... If you have been told that you MUST have a sea kayak to paddle on closed waters (such as Brisbane Waters) then you have been mis-informed. A sea kayak will certainly handle
these waters in any weather, but then so will a decent touring kayak. If you are certain that you will not be venturing out into the big blue sea then you DO NOT NEED A SEA KAYAK (although you may still decide to get one just because they look good and all your mates have one :)
Definition of a Sea Kayak
Just to avoid any confusion, when we refer to sea kayaks we are talking about sit-in kayaks. Some people mistakenly refer to sit-on-top kayaks as sea kayaks. While most sit-on-top kayaks can handle the waves by nature of their buoyant unsinkable design, they can be found under Touring Kayaks and Recreational Kayaks.
To qualify as a sea kayak the kayak should have:
- All round deck lining (grab ropes)
- Upturned bow for lifting the kayak over oncoming swell
- Rudder
- Front and rear bulkheads
- One of the true tests of a sea kayak, and an important safety feature, is that you should be able to paddle it while the cockpit is full of water.
When venturing out into the sea you need to take more caution than flatwater paddling. This means that you should be more stringent about checking the weather and tides, tell someone on the land where you plan to go and when you plan to be back. Invest in some additional safety gear and equipment such as flares, a spare paddle, a paddle float and a bilge pump, just to name a few. We suggest that you visit one of our stores should you require more information on how to better prepare yourself for the sea.
Sea kayaks will vary in length, width, storage capacity and performance and the ideal craft for you will depend on your precise needs.
Comfort is also one of the most important factors as poor comfort can lead to fatigue, which can become a danger to your health and well being. Make a point of at least sitting in a few kayaks before making your decision to purchase.
Double vs single
OK, the next question is "Do you want a double or a single?" Many people come into our shop with a dilemma: "Should we get one double or two singles?" The answer will often come down to personality. If the two of you think that you're OK being together for some time and able to agree on which way to go, when to stop etc. then a double can be a lot of fun. If not then perhaps two singles would be more suitable.
A Double Sea Kayak is especially good if one of you is stronger than the other because then the stronger person can work harder than the weaker person and the weaker paddler doesn't get left behind, even if they have the occasional rest.
Remember, a double can always be paddled by one person, so if you think that you'll be wanting to take it out on your own sometimes then that's fine. Some doubles are easier to paddle solo than others so give us a call or pop into one of our shops to discuss your options.
A double will usually work out cheaper than two singles of similar brand and use.
Two Single Sea Kayaks are suggested for those couples that tend to disagree from time to time or need their independence. A single means that you can go at your own pace and where you want to go. Even if your partner is stronger or weaker than you, a bit of (tow) rope can come in quite handy if the one wants a workout while the other wants to rest.
Naturally if you're only looking for a kayak for yourself then the decision is simple, you'll need a single.
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