Joanna James
Kayaking is the best way to explore a coast, lagoon or river. Although there is a load of equipment out there you really need just the basics. Use this guide to figure out what you need and don't.
Without a paddle your kayak will go nowhere; no matter how fancy. Invest in an appropriate pair. Paddles come in various shapes and sizes, for instance, the Blade Shape is ideal for beginners. The flat shape of these paddles help first timers learn to cleave their way through water; however, they do not move as fast as other shapes; some of which are the 'Shaft' shape and 'Length' long paddles which are beneficial when touring distances.
Paddles are made out of various material; wooden paddles are quite heavy and not very practical especially if you are a beginner. Very expensive carbon fibre paddles are lightweight but quite heavy on your wallet. Opt for plastic paddles; they are not very durable but, no one expects a paddle to last forever. If they serve the purpose at hand settle for it.
Before buying or hiring a kayak consider the type of water you will be using it in. Sea or touring kayaks are most favoured for sea tours. They are longer in length and provide plenty of space for storing equipment such as cameras, water and fishing equipment. These single or double vessels are sit in kayaks that enable you to get in up to the waist. These kayaks slice through the water with relative ease and sometimes come with a rudder for easy maneuverability.
If you are a beginner eager to try your hand at kayaking and heading to the UAE, one option would be around the waters of sunny Abu Dhabi. There are many luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi that assist in hiring out kayaks. Choose the easy to manoeuvre recreational kayak with either one or two sit-in seats and enjoy the stability. Especially in Abu Dhabi, you have a choice of sea or lake with the expansive 1.2km mangrove expanse of the protected Eastern Mangroves area, home to the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara; an ideal environ to enjoy eco-tourism and a paddle across verdant surroundings.
These kayaks are wider shorter and very stable. Best of all the tough vessels are very durable and can withstand being pounded against the rocks. They hardly ever flip over; if they do it is quite easy to right yourself. These kayaks are also lightweight and easy to transport; making treks to your favourite river an easy task.
Do invest in a quality life vest; the PFD's – personal floatation devices – are not always popular but it could save your life if suddenly thrown out of your kayak. There are many types of vests to choose from; made from lightweight colourful fabric that's available in many sizes for a comfortable fit.
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