Unlike a solo kayak, paddling a tandem kayak is different and difficult as well. In this post, you will learn how to paddle a tandem kayak to learn more.
Introduction
Water sports are becoming popular because they offer a good aerobic exercise.
They are available in different forms. Among these forms, Kayaking is quite
popular. The main reason of their popularity is they are simple to use. This is
quite evident when you compare navigating a canoe with that of a kayak. The
main navigation tool of a kayak is a paddle that is double-bladed. Thanks to
this tool, the vessel is easier to keep in a straight course
However, things are different when it is about navigating a canoe. Navigating
alone is quite challenging. Having a companion will be a great help either in
paddling or steering it.
While navigating a solo kayak is enjoyable rather than a challenge, things take
a dramatic turn when it is a tandem kayak. Tandem kayaks require two people
instead of one to navigate it. This type of vessel allows to share the amazing
experience of kayaking with your friend or spouse
But, pleasure comes with difficulty. Navigating a tandem kayak requires the
teamwork of two people. Unlike the solo kayaks, tandem kayaks are also heavier.
This of course makes cruising them difficult. In this guide, we will discuss
how to paddle a tandem kayak.
Why do people resort to a tandem kayak?
Solo kayaks are lightweight making them user friendly in terms of navigation.
But in some situations, using a tandem
kayak becomes absolutely necessary. For example, if you want to introduce
your kid in kayaking or someone who has no prior kayaking experience but is
afraid of going alone in the ocean. In that sense, a tandem kayak is a great
kayak riding learning tool.
Another situation arises that also brings tandem kayak into action. And that
situation is if you want to share the kayaking experience with your partner or
a friend. Since most models of solo kayaks are not roomy enough to accommodate
two people, a tandem kayak is an effective alternative. It may sound a little
unbelievable that you can even take your dog or an elderly person in a tandem
kayak if you don’t want to leave them out from kayaking experience. But, in
that case, you want to stay at the back end of the boat.
One great advantage of tandem kayak over a solo kayak is it is more stable. So,
the chances of capsizing it is minimum. Don’t be afraid of taking your spouse
or the dearest one to the ocean boarding on a tandem kayak.
The types of tandem kayaks
Tandem kayaks come in two different types. These are sit-ins and sit on tandem
kayaks. Under these two types, you will also find other types of kayaks like a
recreational kayak or touring kayak.
Boarding on the tandem kayak:
Let the vessel float on the water first. Keep the rear end of the vessel close
to the shore. But, before launching it, determine the position of its paddlers
in terms of who will sit in front of the vessel or who will sit at the rear end
of the kayak.
The sitting position of paddlers in a tandem kayak is important because the
person who will stay in the back part of the vessel will need to play the
dominating role to navigate it. Since the person taking the rear end of the
kayak will be responsible for pushing and maneuvering the kayak into lake or
ocean water.
Keep in mind that using an oar or paddle is a must for both paddlers. Use a
paddle in accordance with your navigating skill. The rear end paddler needs to
use a paddle that is wider in shape. One thing that is essential is that you
need to use an inflatable kayak. And, you also need to make sure that you must
know how to inflate a tandem kayak correctly before floating it on the waterbody.
In this regard, reading some inflating tips of the kayak will be helpful for
you.
Why do your forward strokes need to take place simultaneously?
It is needed to make sure that you and your kayaking partner are making forward
strokes at the same time. Otherwise, your kayak on the lake will get a zig-zag
motion that is of course not desirable. Another thing will happen inevitably if
you and your partner do not make forward strokes in unison. And, that is
bumping paddles with each other since both of you stay close to each other
while paddling a tandem kayak.
The role of front paddler
The font paddler need not play a dominating role. So, he can paddle naturally.
But, things are different for the rear paddler. It is the person who needs to
make sure that there is a rhythm in their simultaneous action. That is paddling
a tandem correctly.
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