Sea Kayaking - Navigation & Distance
Before you go Sea Kayaking, make sure to bring the essential pieces of navigational equipment. Knowing how to use them is equally important.
One of the essential pieces of navigational equipment is the compass, which should be brought every time you set out. You can mount your compass on the front hatch of your Kayak or canoe to secure it firmly.
A chart is another essential piece of navigational equipment. Charts will help you recognize landmarks onshore in case you find yourself in unfamiliar parts of the sea. Aside from charts, you can also bring maps. Just have them laminated to make them waterproof and store them in dry bags.
When you plan to go out far from shore, there is a need for more sophisticated pieces of equipment. Here comes the importance of a Global Positioning System, or GPS, device. This high tech gadget provides your precise position, the direction of your travel, as well as the rate of speed you are going. You need a chart and compass when using a GPS device.
When you are out in the open sea, you need to make you and your Kayak visible, most especially during foggy days and conditions with low visibility. Chemical glow-stickers can be used for lighting. These can be attached to your boat, your helmet, and Kayaking Clothing. Many kayakers use these because they do not require batteries, and they can still function even when soaked in water. Moreover, they do not become a hassle to your night vision.
For safety purposes, bring flares or strobe lights. These are extremely bright and are very useful when seeking assistance especially in times of distress.
Also, it is important to know what kind of shipping goes through the area where you plan to kayak. This will help you to carefully plan your route.
Kayaking in the open sea requires careful navigation and charting of your position. Therefore, knowing how to use the different pieces of navigational equipment is extremely important. Moreover, gauging how far you can go without getting exhausted is very crucial.
Sea conditions are more demanding than those in rivers or lakes with smooth waters. You can go Kayaking far offshore as long as you can handle it. Do not push yourself because you can still become proficient in Sea Kayaking through time and experience.
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