Now that you have enough experience with river kayaking, it might be time to explore something new, sea kayaking. Many people think sea kayaking is boring due to the absence of rapids, rocks, and waterfalls. But, this is far from the truth. Sea kayaking has its challenges, and you will understand that once you start your sea kayaking journey. We have listed some differences between river and sea kayaking from our own experiences- keep reading to know in detail.
Paddling
Before anything, remember that sea kayaking needs a certain level of fitness. You would need a lot of strength, especially core strength, as you will have to work against the wind. It is an exercise that strains your core and arm muscles. Taking a single touring kayak on the sea is more of an endurance sport.
With sea kayaking, you would be on the water for longer. And you would have to paddle through the calm waters, sometimes against the wind, which is quite unlike river kayaking, where you go with the flow.
Turning Around
Another mild difference between river and sea kayaking is that turning a sea kayak around would take much longer. Touring sea kayaks is much more difficult than river kayaks because of their structures. Sea kayaks are tall, pointy, and slim, whereas river kayaks are flatter and shorter.
Edging
The ease of turning and directing your single touring kayak depends greatly on its weight distribution. Sit on different edges of its hull on the kayak for different weight distribution. When edging is done right, it will help you to direct your kayak in new directions. This is very unlike river kayaking, where you can simply lean on the concerned side to change the kayak in that direction. Changing directions while sea kayaking is a little more complicated than river kayaking affairs.
Setting And Function
The primary difference between sea and river kayaking is their setting and function. When you go river kayaking, you will see great places like waterfalls, gorges, etc. But when you are kayaking in rapids, you would have no time or opportunity to enjoy the scenery. On the other hand, sea kayaking gives you enough opportunity to soak in the area where you are paddling. You will be able to witness the surrounding areas better when you take your kayak to the sea.
River kayaking is considered to be an extreme sport, which is not the case with sea kayaking. So, if you are looking for some adrenaline rush, like that you get while kayaking on the rapids, you might not get that with sea kayaking. However, it has its adventure, as you will be dealing with waves, strong winds, etc.
