List of things to know for sea kayaking in Phuket - Better be safe, than sorry!

There are many types of kayaks to pick from. They depend on your body type if you're a beginner at kayaking and the conditions of the water you're kayaking in. If you're new to kayaking, you should opt for a sit-on-top kayak. They are the best kayaks for amateurs. They are easy to use and gives more space and freedom. Stay-in kayaks are not as spacious as the stay-outs. When sea kayaking. It's safe to use a longer kayak.

If your first choice is to wear a comfy tee-shirt and a pair of shorts, think twice. It might be sunny and warm, but the water could be icy cold. If you accidentally fall to the water, you will be thankful you ditched your summer wear and donned on a kayaking gear. If you're kayaking in Phuket, make sure you pack a wetsuit, waterproof cagoule and kayaking gloves.

Any beginner or experienced kayaker should have his/her set of buoyancy aids. They are the same as life jackets but have more space around the neck and arms making it easier to paddle. Even if you're a pro, you will never know when the water is going to get rough. If you don't own buoyancy aid, you can rent them from your kayaking school.

The posture you maintain in the kayak in important. Even if your kayak comes with a backrest, don't slouch. Always Maintain an angle of 90 degrees between your lower back and legs. This will make paddling much easier. There are foot pegs on both sides of the kayak. Keep your feet on those with knees pointing upwards and your heels centred.

Holding the paddle, without a doubt is one of the most important techniques you should learn. This might be a little too obvious but too many holds the paddle incorrectly. You should hold it in such a way that the concave part should cut through the water. Also, check if your knuckles are places parallel to the blade.

This is something most people would often forget. There is a high chance of you getting wet and spare clothes could come in handy. If you have booked accommodation in a hotel such as Kata Rocks which is close to some of the kayaking spots (such as John Gray's Sea Canoe) you need not worry. However, if your hotel or resort is hours away, it's best to pack extra clothes.

Kayaking in Phuket is more adventurous than you would imagine. There are plenty of sea caves which lead into jungles and animals such as birds and monkeys. It is a different eco-system which is unique to Phuket. You can spend as long as a week among these caves as each cave is unique. The caves are called 'hongs' which is translated into 'rooms'. Expect dark caves, flora and fauna and more beautiful sceneries on your kayaking trip.

Kayaking in Phuket is possible in all year round. The caves are fascinating in the raining season with sparkling stalactites. However, December to March is the sunny season in Phuket. Luxury villas Thailand will have great deals if you check in during this season.