Learn How To Stay Safe In Dangerous Waters

Water enthusiasts, adventurists, and campers love kayaking and canoeing. However, there are potential hazards associated with kayaking, especially in waters that have dangerous wildlife, such as crocodiles, alligators, sharks, and hippos.

Therefore, there are some tips you can follow to stay safe when kayaking in such waters. Here are some of the tips you should consider to stay safe.

Weather Conditions

In every kayaking or canoeing excursion, weather plays a big role, because it determines the visibility and calmness of the water. Warm and sunny days are ideal for kayaking, although some people prefer doing it at any given time, as long as they feel safe doing so.

If you are to kayak in dangerous waters, you need to have good visibility so you can maneuver with ease. As a result, you should not kayak in cold weather, because there is a high probability that you won’t see clearly, and this would jeopardize your safety.

In addition, you need to avoid storms and strong winds, because they make the waves rougher, reduce visibility, and can make you tip over. This is especially dangerous when there are deadly reptiles, snakes, sharks, hippos, etc.

One of the things you should avoid is swimming in such bodies of water, making it more probably to encounter dangerous animals. Hence, you should always be in your kayak, and try as much as possible not to go near the animals, because they can attack you.

Hippos may look slow because they’re so big, but they are surprisingly fast! If you are in a kayak with only a paddle, you would never be able to outrace them.

Editors Note: If you are looking for a stable kayak, click here to read more about the portable Oru.

Tips For Dealing With A Dangerous Wildlife Situation

Since lakes, oceans, and rivers are home to a vast array of marine life, you might encounter some dangerous animals while paddling, even if you are cautious.

Alligators and sharks are the most threatening animals, and you should avoid them as much as possible. However, if you see a shark, you should try to remain calm, because frantic splashing/paddling can draw more attention. If the shark is aggressive, you are advised to hit it on the snout with a paddle to deter it.

On the other hand, if you encounter alligators, make loud noises or blow a whistle, because they hate noises. Finally, avoid fishing and tossing in raw fish scraps while kayaking in dangerous waters, which will tease dangerous.

Water Hazards

Water hazards vary, depending on where you are and the level of your skills. Therefore, you need to be considerate of these two factors, because they will determine your safety. If you are kayaking in dangerous waters, you should look out for any of the following water hazards:

Sweepers – Sweepers are low hanging branches that extend across the water. You need to avoid the sweepers at all costs, because they can make you lose your balance when kayaking. Avoid them with a wide berth to avoid toppling.

Rocks – Even though only a section of the rock is visible, you should keep a safe distance to avoid damaging your vessel, getting injured, or toppling.

Remember, if you are kayaking in dangerous water with sharks and you get injured, your blood can attract them, putting your life at risk.

Strainers – These are submerged, or partially-submerged obstacles that can tip or flip over your kayak. Whenever you approach a strainer (it could be a rock or even a tree), lean towards it to avoid flipping over.

Undercut – Avoid undercuts, because you can get trapped underwater when you get are submerged. Undercuts are usually found in rivers, and they are hard to spot, especially from above water.

As a result, it is important to know where you are kayaking, or seek advice from other kayakers to avoid these water hazards.

Conclusion

Whether it’s protecting yourself from wildlife or dangerous water conditions, take all the necessary precautions and make sure you have all the safety equipment you need. It’s also a good idea to never go alone in these conditions!

How To Choose The Best Kayak Cart

Life can be frustrating if you never find something interesting to take your mind off of work, and just enjoy yourself for a day or two.

Unfortunately, staying at home and watching a movie, or just sleeping does not work for most people. That is where water sports, such as kayaking, come in.

In this article, we are going to look at how you can choose the best cart for your kayak, so that you won’t get tired while carrying it to the water. They’re also great for those hard to reach areas, where you have to walk a longer distance.

The Cart’s Balance

The main reason why you would want a kayak cart is to carry your kayak as close enough to the water as possible. In that regard, you are obviously going to get to a point where the ground is not very even.

The last thing you want is for the cart to be toppled by a pebble or small rock. A well balanced kayak cart has a center of gravity that is low enough to offer stability, even when rolling on uneven surfaces.

The best way to estimate how stable the cart is is to check how the kayak rests on it. If the wheels are two close to each other, then it probably is not very stable. A longer spacing between the wheels will offer more stability.

The Wheels

This one may seem obvious, but it is not. One may easily choose to overlook the type of wheel the kayak cart has, because there does not seem to be much variety.

However, you have to consider the advantages of inflatable wheels against foam-stuffed wheels. Generally, foam-stuffed wheels tend to be expensive, but they offer a long-term service.

They also do not go flat, and therefore, won’t disappoint you in case you run the cart over a nail, thorn, or anything that can puncture rubber. If you believe you run the risk of puncturing your cart’s wheel, then choose a cart with foam-stuffed wheels.

Inflatable wheels are cheaper, and offer better cushioning to the kayak. Their downside is they easily get punctured. If that happens, you either have to repair them while you are out there, or find another means of carrying your kayak.

The last option is to go for balloon tires if you are likely to pull your cart over a sandy surface. However, they are more costly than the first two options, and they run a greater risk of getting punctured, or simply going flat. Still, they offer a greater convenience when transporting your kayak along the beach.

Cart’s Frame

The overall design of the cart should be durable, lightweight, and compact. Most importantly, the paint work on the frame should be perfect. It should not come off at the slightest scratch, thereby exposing the metal to corrosion.

The frame should be compact enough to fit in your car’s trunk for easy storage, so you do not have to tie the cart, along with the kayak, on the roof rack. Another important feature that the kayak cart should have is a longer and stronger strap.

As time goes by, the sun’s rays will weaken the strap, and if it was not strong enough in the first place, it will snap when you least expect it. Needless to say, that could cause significant damage to your kayak.

Some kayak carts do not have straps, and instead, come with parts that are designed to plug into the kayak’s scupper holes. If you choose that design, make sure that the cart will easily fit into the scrapper holes, and the kayak will rest securely on it.

The advantage of the plug-design is if you get a perfect fit, it is a lot more convenient to use than the straps.

Lastly, if the frame and wheels are both light enough, then that is a plus. You will not have to worry about the cart when kayaking.

Even if it were to slip into the water, it will remain afloat and attached to the kayak, if you did not loosen the straps.

Conclusion

Overall, the choice of cart you are going to buy will depend on where you plan to go kayaking, and how much you are willing to spend.

Like most things in life, you get what you pay for; you should, therefore, focus more on quality than price. We hope that you found this article to be informative, allowing you to buy the best kayak cart you can.

PS. If you’re on the prowl for your own kayak, you can read our Oru kayak review first.

Kayaking With Kids Safety Guide

Kayaking is an outdoor activity that is loved by adventurous, active people who love being out on the water. They sometimes risk their own safety to enjoy the adrenaline that kayaking can provide, especially with fast moving rivers.

However, some people kayak with their kids when they are on a vacation or a tour. When you kayak with your kids, you should prepare them in advance to guarantee their safety.

You should have the right gear before you go kayaking, because it can save your whole family’s lives. Therefore, before you start, you should all put on life vests and load your boat with the proper safety equipment.

If you are planning to kayak with your kids, you should consider buying a sit-on-top kayak rather than a sit-in kayak, because they won’t fill with water [For regular, adult recommendations, we recommend you read our review of the Oru, the world’s most interesting portable kayak]. After you’ve gathered the right gear, you need to teach your kids how to use them and maintain them.

What To Start With

The first thing you should teach kids is the paddling technique. To achieve this, you will have to teach them in a secure area that’s protected, and there’s safety gear on, just in case anything happens.

Instruct the kids to sit up straight and hold the paddle at shoulders’ distance level, and paddle uniformly. Be patient, because you should expect the kids to tire out, or fail to paddle at all.

Therefore, you should not rely on the kids to start off paddling well, because they are not quite experienced. Alternatively, you can start watching videos with your kids and reading articles about kayaking, to prepare them in advance.

Also, you can consider signing yourself and the kids up for swimming and kayaking lessons. You can get swimming lessons from a community pool, so that in case your kayak topples, your kids can swim easily and avoid drowning. In addition, you can start working out with your kids at home to become fit, and strengthen your muscles.

The Next Step

Secondly, you will have to expose them to the kayaking world. Choose a protected area, a safe river, or a lake where you can go for your first outing. This is very important to build their confidence, teach them how to paddle, show them how to wear protective gear, and how to use them all together.

When buying life vests, you should consider both the age and weight of the kids, because they vary in size. If you are not informed about life jackets, consider seeking professional help to avoid jeopardizing your safety, or that of your kids.

Kayaking While On Vacation With Kids

In case you are planning a trip or vacation, and have been practicing kayaking on a lake or river, you need to sell the trip to the kids so that they can get involved.

First, research more about your trip, using relevant field books, and tide and current charts. This information will be helpful when kayaking, because you will have discussed where to kayak, how to do it, duration of time, and technique, among other things.

Remember, preparing your kids psychologically is very important, because you will be depending on them to cooperate and follow instructions.

Secondly, you need to have a packing list so your kids won’t forget things you really need on your trip. Some of the things you should include are clothing, food, and safety gear.

Thirdly, you need the help of other adults when kayaking, especially if you have more than one kid. Each kid should have a life vest, even if they know how to swim, because you will be kayaking on potentially dangerous water, like the ocean, for example.

Conclusion

Finally, while on the water, you need to go slow, give rules/directions, and teach. Most importantly, you should be supportive, to encourage your kids and enjoy the entire experience. However, safety should always come first, even if you are just trying to have fun with your family.

Best Kayaking Adventures In Florida

Florida is a kayaker’s paradise, with a diverse ecosystem and crystal clear waters. Every nature lover can appreciate the abundance of wildlife and breathtaking landscape, as they flow through river trails and the open ocean. Before we get started, we love to give our reads some reviews to read just in case they are researching any SUPs, kayaks, or canoes: check out the Hula 11 and our Oru kayak review here.

Moving on…

If you are a kayaking enthusiast, and planning on visiting the sunshine state, we have great news for you. We are about to highlight the best places to go kayaking in Florida.

#1. Rainbow River

This is Florida’s fourth largest spring, and kayak lovers are excited about the adventurous surroundings that this diverse ecosystem contains.

You will flow through cypress trees, and embrace the view of the luxurious aquatic vegetation. Plus, there are kayak rentals that are available at the park, as well as restrooms, hiking trails, picnic areas, and a place to stretch your legs.

#2. Weeki Wachee Springs

Weeki Wachee State Park has crystal clear water, and is a wonderful place to explore and kayak. The most exciting part about the river in the park is that you might see manatees or otters.

#3. Juniper Run, Oscala National Forest

This is an excellent place to explore a diverse wildlife, with luscious landscapes and clear water. It’s 7 miles long, and the difficulty is moderate to difficult, because of the maneuvering you may have to do with tree that are in the way.

#4. Wekiwa Springs

Wekiwa Springs State Park is 20 minutes north of Orlando, and has a laid-back vibe with stunning, century-old trees in a field of lillypads, which will give you the feeling that you are in a Monet painting.

#5. Santa Fe River

This is an amazing chance to witness a diverse and abundant wildlife. Plus, you might get to join the once-a-month full moon paddle at night, to witness the beautiful starlights.

#6. Silver Springs State Park

In this central Florida destination, you could see a variety of alligators, turtles, tropical birds, dear, otter, and monkeys. It is an artesian spring, one of the largest ones ever discovered.

The park rents kayaks (and even clear bottom kayaks!), tandem kayaks, paddle boards, and there is a small fee to launch your own boat.

#7. Cedar Key

This is a top-notch secluded place to go paddling and kayaking. The stunning landscape and wildlife experience will definitely take your breath away.

You can paddle your way through the historic trail to get to an ancient island called Atsena Otie Key, which is a great place to find Native American artifacts, such as pottery and arrowheads.

#8. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

As you paddle through this stunning area, you will be able to see colorful fish and turtles, and embrace the surroundings of mother nature. There are kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to rent here.

#9. Ischetucknee Springs State Park

This is a wonderful place to kayak and paddle. Through the river trails, you can explore wetland plants, a cypress forest, and rock formations.

During the off-season, you can see river otters, blue herons, and turtles playing around the river. In 1972, this place was designated as the clearest water in the world.

#10. Manatee River

This wonderful place is located in west central Florida, with a landscape that is covered with moss, pine, and shrub. The upper river paddling trail is approximately 9 miles long, and is perfect for beginners.

On weekdays, the river is usually empty. This is a great opportunity to bird watch and find alligators, manatees, and other wildlife relaxing near the river.

Conclusion

Florida contains a variety of wildlife and rivers for kayak enthusiasts to enjoy. The awesome part is that there are rentals, rest stops, restrooms, camping areas, and picnic areas for people to enjoy.

The diverse wildlife ecosystem, combined with clear waters and old cypress trees, makes Florida a great place to explore and appreciate mother nature.

Paddle Board Safety Tips That Can Save Your Life

Paddle boarding has become an amazing, fun activity that can be enjoyed in almost all bodies of water. All you have to do is bring a sturdy paddle, get on the board, and slowly make your way to your destination.

You can also paddle for exercise, and the thrill of exploring your surroundings and new territories. Beautiful things can be seen in areas that many people cannot get to by bigger boats. If you need a budget kayak, you can check out the Sun Dolphin Bali 10 option here.

However, because of the excitement and adventure, people often forget how dangerous paddle boarding can get. It’s important to consider some safety tips and strategies, which are listed below, so you can enjoy this hobby in peace.

paddle boarding safety tips

Paddle Board Leashes

The paddle board leash connects your ankle to your paddle board. It plays an important role in ensuring that you are safely attach to your board. There are various types of paddle board leashes to choose from.

The style depends on which type of water condition you are paddle boarding in. If you are on the ocean, then a straight leash will do wonders for you. This type of leash will provide you with maximum safety, without dragging you through turbulent water.

If you are on flat water, then the coil leash is your best bet, because it will stay on top of the board and not drag you in the water.

If you are river paddling, it’s best to invest in a breakaway leash, to prevent you from getting tangled on some underwater branch or plant.

What To Monitor Before Paddling

Before paddling, it’s best to watch out for strong winds, swells, tides, and the sun. If the wind is strong, then this can be dangerous for inexperienced paddlers.

During windy days, you might find yourself struggling to stay afloat, and balancing might look pretty clumsy and troublesome. Therefore, it is important to check the strength of the wind before proceeding with this hobby.

Another factor to look out for is the swells. Swells can provide us with bigger and stronger waves, therefore, we would have tougher water to paddle on. These waves can add a great amount of difficulty, which will require some experience and physical strength to get through.

Another issue to be aware of are the tides, which are involved in ocean navigation on your paddle board. If you are aware of the tides, it will allow you to prepare, so they don’t carry you too far out.

If that happens, paddling back may take a long period of time, causing severe exhaustion. This is why you should check on potential tides before going out on the ocean.

Another thing that you should focus on is when the sun rises and sets. The last thing you want to do is paddle back to shore when it’s getting dark.

Knowing when the sun will rise or set can help you plan your adventure, so you will have enough time to get back safely to the shore.

Paddle With A Partner

It’s always fun to have an awesome paddling partner with you. Plus, it’s a wonderful idea to use the buddy system, to look out for each other during your paddling adventure.

After all, you never know when mishaps could happen. If something unfortunate were to happen, at least somebody is there to call for help.

Sunscreen

Sunscreens can prevent harmful UV rays from penetrating deeply into your skin. It is important to apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, 20 minutes before entering the water.

This way, you can protect yourself against sunburns and potential skin cancer. Also, the sun can severely dehydrate you, causing you to be even more tired than usual, especially with no sunscreen.

Conclusion

If you follow these safety tips, you will enjoy the fun-filled activity that is paddle boarding (check out our Hula 11 review here). You will be able to survive the adventure and share stories with your friends.

These safety tips can reduce the chance of injury, or other catastrophes from happening. In fact, through careful planning and preparations, you will be able to avoid the majority of disasters that can leave you stranded, or stuck floating in the water, waiting for help.

The last thing you want is to end up in the hospital, so take some precautions and enjoy your paddle boarding adventure!