River kayaks are designed specifically for that purpose. They are shorter and wider than ocean kayaks, which makes them more stable in fast-moving water. But can you use a river kayak in the ocean? The answer is yes with a few modifications.
Among kayakers, there is often a lively debate over what the best type of kayak is for different environments. Some people swear by using a river kayak in the ocean, while others maintain that a sea kayak is a must for open water.
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Can You Use A River Kayak In The Ocean?
Yes, you can use a river kayak in the ocean. However, you should make some modifications to your river kayak before you head out into the open ocean. In general, river kayaks are shorter and wider than sea kayaks because they need to be more stable in fast-moving water.
What Type Of Kayak Is Best For The Ocean?
The best type of kayak for your ocean adventure depends on the type of water you want to explore, what gear or storage capacity you need, how much speed and range you require, and how you like to kayak (i.e., solo or tandem).
Most kayakers agree that a sea kayak is ideal for extreme paddlings, such as long-distance expeditions in open water with unfavorable wind and waves. Sea kayaks tend to be longer, narrower, and faster than most other types of recreational kayaks, and they offer more storage space. These features make sea kayaks better for navigating open water and carrying lots of bulky gear.
For other ocean adventures, such as camping or sightseeing trips, a touring or recreational kayak will be fine. The wide beam of these kayaks makes them stable enough to handle choppy waves and strong currents. A touring or recreational kayak will not be as fast or maneuverable in strong winds, currents, and waves as a sea kayak, but it should still get you to where you want to go.
How Do You Adjust To The Waves And Currents?
The one thing to keep in mind if you want to use a river kayak in the ocean is that it’s going to be much more difficult to adapt to big waves and strong currents. Due to the fact that they’re shorter and wider than sea kayaks, river kayaks are inherently less stable. When you enter the open waters, the waves and currents will seem a lot more intense.
What Should You Wear For Protection From The Sun And Saltwater?
A rashguard, such as this one made by RipCurl, will protect your skin from harsh conditions. If you choose to wear a wetsuit, make sure it’s not too tight. The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable on your kayak trip.
Safety Tips For Kayaking In The Ocean
- Never kayak alone. A group of two or more is ideal for ocean kayaking.
- Stay close to shore and monitor the weather conditions. Ocean swell conditions can change rapidly, as can wind direction and speed which will affect your paddling ability greatly.
- Know how to take care of yourself in an emergency situation.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you should return.
- Listen to your gut feeling about the conditions/area you plan to kayak in. It’s better to be overly cautious than recklessly ignore warning signs.
- Always wear some sort of personal flotation device (PFD).
Conclusion
In the end, I hope this article will help you when your mind comes across the question can you use a river kayak in the ocean? So yes you can use your kayak for what you want to use.
If you are looking to find the best type of kayak for your ocean adventure, then you don’t need a river kayak. Any recreational or touring kayak will be able to handle the open water.
FAQs
Q1. Can you use a river kayak in the ocean?
Yes, you can use a river kayak in the ocean.
Q2. What type of kayak is best for the ocean?
For other ocean adventures, such as camping or sightseeing trips, a touring or recreational kayak will be fine. The wide beam of these kayaks makes them stable enough to handle choppy waves and strong currents.
Q5. Safety tips for kayaking in the ocean?
Never kayak alone. Stay close to shore and monitor the weather conditions.