So, what are your plans for the weekend? Will you be staying it or going it?
Here’s our suggestion: Why not go kayaking?
It’s a refreshing activity and will give you a great workout. If you have never kayaked or canoed before, you will probably have trouble getting in it. If you are renting a kayak, consider renting a dock launch as well. This platform cradles your dock and allows you to easily get in and out. All you have to do is use the paddle to push yourself onto the water, and the fun will begin.
A kayak is a graceful personal water craft or PWC. If you have a personal dock or you are at your local, you can launch your kayak in two ways:
- Shoreline Launch: You straddle the kayak and scoot onto the water.
- Dock Launch: You maintain your balance while getting into the kayak and shift in quickly.
It’s important to do a prelaunch check to ensure that you have all the gear in place and the PFD is snug. Move the foot pegs into the right place, and the skeg is up.
Getting Into a Kayak
Entering a Kayak in Shallow Water
- Drag your kayak as close as possible to the shoreline
- Put on your helmet and sit in the kayak
- Use the paddles to push you offshore
Launching From a Dock
Depending on high or low the water is, you will have to adjust your body placement. Here’s how to get into a kayak that’s parked parallel to the dock:
- Place the paddle on the dock and sit on the edge with your legs dangling above the water
- Place your feet into the kayak, rotate your torso and drag your butt next
- Make sure one hand is on the dock to keep yourself stable
- Settle your feet on the pegs
- Drape a spray skirt over your lap and grab your paddle
- Gently push yourself onto the water and paddle to gain momentum
Exiting a Kayak
- Once you reach the dock, move your kayak parallel to the platform
- Place the paddle on the dock
- Repeat the above movements in reverse
- Make sure to keep one hand on the dock at all times to avoid falling into the water
Getting Into a Kayak from a Modular Dock
A modular dock is expandable and changeable. You move your kayak into a linear opening that boxes your kayak and offers safety. You can easily walk on the platform and not worry about gently stepping foot into the kayak to avoid falling.
The support on either side allows you to get out of the kayak easily without tipping. This floating dock can be made smaller depending on how many kayakers are there. You can also take it out of the water in winter.
And that’s how a kayak dock works and provides stability when getting into your PWC.
For kayak docks, visit the EZ Dock Texas website and browse their wide range of dock designs. Their decking material is made from high-quality aluminum that offers durability. For more information or queries, call (800) 654-8168.
