Boating enthusiasts love nothing more than hopping onto their kayaks and paddling their way through the waterways. However, it’s no secret that kayaking with a partner in a tandem kayak can be a little tricky, especially if neither of you has ever paddled one before. There are a few things you should keep in mind when paddling a tandem kayak to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
1. Communication is key: Before you get into the kayak, it’s essential to have a chat with your partner about the course you’ll take, the speed you’ll aim for, and any other necessary information. That way, you’ll be able to paddle in sync and avoid any unnecessary collisions.
2. Positioning: Make sure both of you are seated appropriately in the tandem kayak. The person in the back should sit towards the stern, and the person in the front should be positioned towards the bow. The idea is for the kayak’s weight to be evenly distributed, so make sure you’re both comfortable and have your feet on the pedals.
3. Paddling: The person in the back should be the one to steer the kayak. The person in front can still paddle, but their job is to maintain the kayak’s speed and balance. It’s important to coordinate your paddling strokes so that you’re not paddling in opposite directions. For example, if the person in the back paddles on the left, the person in front should also paddle on the left.
4. Timing: When paddling, it’s important to keep your timing in check. You don’t want to paddle too fast or too slow, or worse, have one person stop paddling entirely. Try to match the speed and rhythm of your partner’s paddling so that you’re both in sync.
5. Steering: Steering a tandem kayak isn’t as simple as it may seem. It’s the person in the back who is responsible for steering, and they do so by using their paddle as a rudder. To steer left, the person in the back should paddle on the right, and vice versa.
6. Changing positions: While it’s possible to paddle a tandem kayak alone from the rear position, it might not be as enjoyable. If you decide to switch positions during your trip, do so carefully, so you don’t tip the kayak. The best time to do so is when you’re in calm waters.
Paddling a tandem kayak requires teamwork, communication, and coordination. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have a fantastic time on the water with your partner. Bon voyage!