© 2008 PC Upgrade

Here’s some basic information for those completely new to the sport of Paddling:

Never, ever, paddle alone! Remember, “less than three, there should never be”.

Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Stay in touch by mobile if you then find you’re going to be late. 

Always wear your buoyancy aid!

Pass your star tests - they are designed to keep you and others around you safe on the water!

KAYAK OR CANOE?

The Canoe:

A canoe can be one of two things, an open cockpit canoe or a closed cockpit canoe. Open cockpit boats are generally used for touring the river with friends and family or racing in marathon events, closed-cockpit boats are more frequently used for racing in slalom events. A canoe is only ever paddled with a single-bladed paddle and you do not sit in a canoe - you kneel (oddly, most people out for a weekend paddle actually sit in a canadian canoe as it’s often more comfy this way).

See the images below...

The Canoe Paddle.

The Kayak:

A Kayak can also be open or closed-cockpit.  Open cockpit boats are generally used for racing in marathon events, closed-cockpit boats are more frequently used for racing in slalom events and general paddling. A kayak is only ever paddled with a double-bladed paddle and you do not kneel in a kayak - you sit.

See the images below...

The Kayak Paddle.