Is commuting by kayak across river (2 miles) realistic, or silly idea?

Question

Thinking about commuting across the River Clyde on the West Coast of Scotland by Kayak - is this realistic, or is there a better vessel (other than a ferry!!!!) that I could use, without worrying about moorings and the like?

Answer 1

I think kayaking is a good option. If you are going by yourself I think it will work the best. Also they are easy to handle by yourself.

Answer 2

That sounds awesome. I suggest doning it. Great excersize and it beats traffic or paying a ferry.

Answer 3

I have known people to do it.  It depends on what you do for work.  Is there a place to get changed? to store kayak?  I'd love to do it myself.  I commute by bike and love it.

Answer 4

It does sound like fun but you have to ask yourself how practical would it really be bearing in mind the varying weather conditions, tides, shipping and navigational hazards that you may or are likely to experience on the Clyde.

You will also need to look at identifying practical launching and landing sites near to your point of departure and arrival.

Whether it is silly or not depends entirely on your experience and ability as a Kayakist.

I'm not so familiar with the Clyde but knowing the Firth of Forth quite well I can safely say that 2 miles (even in a boat) can seem alot longer not to mention take longer if you suddenly find yourself caught up in bad weather or the wrong side of the tide.

If you want to use a boat then you will have to think about places to moor or berth.

For more information on Kayaking contact the British Canoe Union:

http://www.bcu.org.uk

Answer 5

I think it's a good idea as long as you don't mind getting a little water on you.