If you’re planning a trip to Naples, there are so many activities to take advantage of thanks to the beautiful Florida weather.
Kayaking is a favorite water activity many people enjoy, but they may not be aware of the hazards and dangers it presents. Though kayaking is typically a safe and user-friendly activity, there’s always a chance of the unthinkable happening.
Whether you are kayaking leisurely or are more adventurous, there are kayak safety tips that will benefit everyone. Ranging from knowing how to exit a flipped kayak to what to wear on a trip out on the water, these tips will ensure your safety. Below are the top 5 kayak safety tips that will help make your trip to Naples a success. Read on to prepare for any situation.
1. Wear a Life Jacket
This may seem like common sense, but so many paddlers will forego the life jacket if the waters appear calm or if they are an expert paddler. Most find it uncomfortable to wear while kayaking.
Despite this, one should always wear a life jacket. If you ever become separated from your kayak, this will keep you afloat on the water until you can reach the boat again.
Life jackets can also hold a whistle or kayaking knife – these come in handy to alert other paddlers of where you are and can help if you get tangled in a rope.
2. Weather Conditions
Weather conditions are an important part of kayak safety. Being aware of incoming storms or even water temperature can ensure your safety.
By taking a look at the weather forecast or knowing water temperature, you’ll know what to wear to avoid hypothermia or when to take a trip out to avert stormy waters.
3. Kayak Location
Speaking of rough waters, we recommend sticking to your skill level. If you are a beginner, avoid water areas with a lot of falls and rocks until you are a more practiced paddler.
This includes finding a good entry and exit point, places with good coverage of winds, and still waters.
4. Area Rules
Whether you are kayaking in a public lake, estuary or ocean, each water area has their own set of rules and regulations.
Familiarizing yourself with what rules apply to kayak’s will help you better understand when to go and what to avoid doing on the water.
5. Kayak Safety
Each paddler, regardless of skill level, should know how to re-enter and exit a kayak while on the water.
Several different kayak types differ in size and style, so being educated on which model you’ll be renting and how to enter and exit it safely is good to know.
Safety Tips
Kayaking is a great water activity for anyone to enjoy with the right skill level and weather conditions.
If you follow these safety tips, you will make amazing memories on the water during your trip to Naples.
If you are interested in renting a kayak with us or have questions, please contact us or browse our website!
Naples Beach Adventures
11135 GulfShore Drive
Naples, FL 34108
Parking Lot #4
(239) 596-9842