I fancey Kayaking inland coastal r& river - question sit on or sit in ? ps all year round - any thoughtd?

Answer 1

whitewater and flatwater in one boat is a bit like asking for one ski to do both Nordic (cross-country) and Alpine (downhill). Sure you can do it, but you'll compromise to do so.

So first, I'd look into what you can rent locally. If you'd flat water twice a month, but whitewater twice a year, buy a sit-in, touring kayak and rent a polyethylene whitewater boat.

If it is a mellow river, it is the same as flat water. And inland coastal sounds like there aren't waves. If you are in a warm climate and never want to go fast, get a sit-on-top. (they are wider for stability so are slower).

If you are in the north, get a closed-deck boat with spray skirt. Your boating season will much longer and if some spray or whitecaps come up, you won't get soaked below the waist.

I observe that in Hawaii almost all kayaks are sit-on-top (so you can roll off for a swim and surf the waves). While here in Alaska everything is closed-deck with a good spray skirt and paddle floats to re-enter if you capsize.

So, are you going to be a warm-water paddler or will you go out in all weather?

Answer 2

I agree with the previous person. Get a sit-in. If you must, get a sit-on/sit-in convertible kayak. Those are usually not the best kind. Off the top of my head, I think I remember seeing one from BIC. This is only if you must. You should just get a sit in. Sit ins are much better for endurance/distance kayaking as well. You sound like you're more of a touring kind of kayaker.

Also, sit-ons have a much larger beam and takes more energy to track straight. I've only used a sit-on once and I disliked it. That is my personal preference.

All in all, I'd recommend a shorter touring kayak, say 15 feet since you're on river sometimes. Also get one with a larger beam. I also do not recommend fiberglass, get one of the plastics. You are going to hit many things and fiberglass will make you cry money. (or maybe that's just me and you may be much more skilled than I am)

Enjoy, Ky

Answer 3

I would suggest for all year round I'd definately suggest a sit in, much better for poor/colder conditions. Easier to stay drier/warmer in the case of a capsize, once you've mastered righting yourself without getting out of the kayak ;-)