Related Sponsors

Introduction--Kayak Trips vs. Canoe Trips

Home » Kayaking » Kayak Trips » Introduction--Kayak Trips vs. Canoe Trips

Kayaking and canoeing are both great best ways to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Both boats allow you to escape from the highways and travel the way our ancestors did: on the water. In addition, kayak and canoe trips are great opportunities to experience the outdoors with your friends and family. Children and adults alike will love floating down the river, as well as fishing and swimming. But which one do you pick, kayak or canoe?

Kayak: The main advantage of a kayak trip is that you can do it by yourself. The small size and weight of a kayak allow you to maneuver the craft more easily (and drag it much less) than you could a canoe. Most kayaks also only seat one person, so you can travel whenever you want and enjoy some solitude on the river. In addition, some kayaks allow you to escape the rivers and go sea kayaking, which you would not want to do in a canoe.

Canoe: On the other hand, since you are alone in the kayak, you cannot depend on your paddling partner, so canoeing is generally a better idea for the novice paddler. In addition, canoes have extra space for people and supplies, so you can put either a third person or extra supplies in a canoe. The extra space also makes canoes easier to enter and exit than are kayaks.

Most river outfitters will rent both canoes and kayaks, but ask canoeing and kayaking friends (or contact your state’s tourism office) for suggestions on where to take your trip and what outfitter to use. Pick an outfitter that provides clear directions and all your equipment, and don’t avoid asking questions. If you want to go sea kayaking, use the same process, but make sure the kayak you receive is sturdy enough to handle the waves you will face.

Kayaking is one of those skills that takes a few minutes to learn but a lifetime to master. Changing locations, water currents, and weather will ensure that no two trips will be identical. Even if your first trip is a failure, keep at it; with each trip, you will have to think less about the details and you will get to enjoy the trip more.

Next Page: Planning a Kayak Trip: Introduction

Related Kayak Trips Articles