1. Equipment

A Sit In Sea Kayak

Recreational “sit on top” kayaks and surf skis are not suitable. Prior approval is required for their use on SSRKC paddles

Open Cockpit style sea kayaks are suitable

Most club members use ‘Sit In’ type sea or estuary kayaks, in preference to a ‘Sit On’ kayak.
Kayaks for sale, often appear on the club website under Classifieds and through other websites. It is important however to be familiar with various kayak brands and what design would best suits the individuals.
As kayaks need to be carried, it is important to consider the weight when making a new purchase, somewhere around 25kg is suitable.
Kayaks should have ample waterproof storage to cater for morning-tea, personal items, safety gear.. Occasionally the club may have whole day or overnight paddles.

 

In summary a suitable kayak will need to
  • Be well maintained with bulkheads or additional floatation to generate buoyancy.
  • Be able to float, if capsized
  • Be capable of keeping up with the group with a paddling speed of above 4 km per hour.
  • Be able to turn comfortably
  • Be able to carry food, water, stool and personal items
  • Be seaworthy, as the weather can change, creating challenging paddling conditions.
  • Be equipped with a ‘painter’, a short length of rope tied to the bow, that is used to secure the kayak to a solid item on the river bank or alternatively can be used as a tow line, in an emergency
  • Carry a sponge/ bailer/ or pump, which is used to remove water from the cockpit.
Paddlers must
  • Wear a personal floatation devise (PFD) type 2, with an attached whistle (manually inflated jackets are unacceptable)
  • Wear aquatic footwear suitable for paddling, swimming and/or walking on rocks.
  • Wear adequate protective clothing