What is sea kayaking?

Question

What is sea kayaking?

Answer 1

A kayak is a type of boat, propelled with a twin bladed paddle, where the paddler sits.  A canoe is a bit different in that the paddler normally kneels.

Sea kayaking is usually done on the ocean outside the surf zone or on flat water lakes, sometimes rivers (flat water, no significant rapids).

Kayaks can be sit-on-top style or cockpit style where you sit in the interior of the boat.  In this case you usually would use a neoprene spray skirt to keep water out of the inside of the boat.

The boats are usually long and narrow to provide good 'tracking', that is, to help keep you going in a straight line.  They do not turn as quickly or as easily as surf or white-water kayaks.  Some are even outfitted with rudder systems operated by foot pedals inside the boat.

In any case, it is usually best to get at least rudimentary instruction.  This can be had at resorts in many locations.  In many areas, like here in Southern California, there are dedicated Kayak/Canoe businesses that sell boats and provide instruction.  Some of the larger sporting good stores also offer instruction.

Answer 2

Here is an overview of sea kayaking that you might find useful (its kayaking on the open ocean)

http://www.kayak-escape.com/sea-kayaking...