Our kayak fleet is stored in the boat shed. The main garage doors are unlocked during club hours.
An orientation is required before you may use a club kayak. The orientation typically takes about 2 hours and will cover the following ground:
- Overview of our boats
- Club Procedures and Rules
- How to prepare and launch the boats. How to use the dock.
- We’ll paddle kayaking around the cove along with a capsize practice.
(Yes, you will get wet.) - Learn how to put away the boats correctly.
Once you’ve taken your orientation, you may use a club kayak any time in the cove. You may also accompany certified paddlers out of cove, and help pilot club swim events.
Preparation
A successful trip starts with good preparation:
- Sign out your kayak
The log book is at the podium in the main boathouse. - Check weather and currents
You will learn more about this in the Bay Safety course and during the in person lesson - Paddle
Paddles are kept beside the Boat Shed. - Life Vests – The club has a range of life vests available for use. For kayaking, we recommend you use standard (non-inflatable) vests that will keep you buoyant and keep you warm.
Before you launch your kayak perform a safety check:
- Scuppers – Most kayaks have ‘scuppers’ to allow water to drain out – check to see that your kayak has plugs in place; they may be in the front, back, side, or middle of the kayak. Some kayaks have corks in place of plugs – this may be ok for some trips but make sure the cork is secure in the hole.
- Hatch seals – If your kayak has hatches – check to make sure there is a seal under the hatch cover and that it is in good condition – check the hatch to make sure it fits properly and if it has straps that they have a snug fit.
- Damage / leaks? – Give the kayak an inspection to ensure there is no damage. If you see anything significant, please report it to the Boat Captain.
When you choose your kayak – ask for help with bringing it to your launch area (usually the beach) constant dragging or dropping the kayak will weaken the shell and it may crack and leak.
Launching
Video how to get off the beach and launch
- How to get through the waves at the beach
- When (and how) to use the dock
Return & Wash Down
When you get back, you’ll need to rinse the sand off your boat before putting it away. Pull apart your paddle and rinse it.
It is not unusual for kayaks to take on some water when so when you finish your outing – drain the kayak for the next person.
Put boat and paddle back. Most kayaks are placed on the shelf based on size so try to place your kayak back in the same shelf location.
Help others do the same. Sign yourself back in.