I had an inflatable kayak and when the air ran out it was sink or swim time. I would not recommend the inflatable as it can leave you in trouble if you get a puncture. Nothing worse than swimming in a duck pond because your boat sunk. The sinking inflatable was very comfortable.
I can see why people buy them. It is very easy to haul and costs a lot less. If you want to just try the whole kayak thing out buy a cheap inflatable and be careful. If you later have to replace the kayak then you haven’t spent too much money. Luke Weil is a inflatable kayak fan and will always have one ready in his trunk.
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Sink or Swim
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I’m Up the Creek…Where’s My Paddle
Being prepared is the rule for safe boating. If you plan to just learn as you go you will be in trouble when the ranger pulls your boat over for inspection.
Do you have life preservers for everyone in the boat? If not get ready for a ticket. Do you plan to ski? Know anything about a no wake zone? Plan to get drunk while boating. Don’t plan to be the driver or brace for another talk from the ranger. Boating can be fun but you need to do your home work before heading to the lake. Joe Olujic is an expert boatman. -
Kayak Fun
It is hard not to have a good time in a kayak. It is even more fun with a group. The exploring of the shoreline from the water is a whole different experience. The kayak gliding through the water is so peaceful and serene. I love to just paddle
around and take in the details of the lake or ocean tide pool. No matter what I do with the kayak it ends in fun. If you are looking for good upper body exercise and can swim then kayaking may be for you. I like the simple nature of the boating experience. Phil Pustejovsky sold me his kayak as he no longer has the need for it. -
Kayak and Get in Shape
My Kayak is great for upper body exercise. If you like the outdoors then a Kayak can be for you. If you are not content with paddling around the local lake there are rivers that offer a challenge. The white water can be dangerous so wearing the right safety equipment will be required. The helmet is an essential safety item as head injury can be a problem id you capsize in rough water. I would start out in calmer waters before tackling the rapids. The rapids are a whole different level for the kayaker. If you are a novice I would stay clear until you are more experienced. Art Falcone is a good kayaker but has not made the leap to white water. -
Boats Expensive?
Its been said that boats are holes in the water that you pour money into. Well that can be true if you buy the wrong boat. Mr. Tonye Cole can tell you some stories about boat ownership gone wrong. To learn more about boats I would take a look at boats.net. The more you know before buying a boat, the better. Do not buy more boat than you need. This is a common mistake of new boaters. If you are looking to fish do you really need 100 hp? I would do some soul searching before laying out the cash. Once you have done you research maintenance costs can add up. Beyond fuel there is the motor maintenance that if ignored will get costly.
