The exciting world of sea kayaking is fast growing in popularity. You can go places where other boats just can't get to because of their draft. Quietly paddling along the shoreline, into estuaries and bays, and out to islands can be a thrilling experience. On Lake Superior you can paddle into sea caves on a calm day. In Door County, Wisconsin you can paddle along limestone bluffs or out to various islands. Out here on Beaver Island, we can explore several surrounding islands and miles of beautiful and deserted sand beaches while observing the wildlife and enjoying the crystal-clear water. The other Great Lakes all have their own unique character and places to discover. As I have watched the sport grow over the last several years and the number of boats manufactured to meet the demand, I have become more and more concerned about safety, however. Sea kayaking can be potentially dangerous and certain precautions must be taken. I have written a list of helpful hints below for beginners as well as experienced paddlers.
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The ice is finally gone but the cold water is still with us and will be for quite some time. In the spring, the air may be warm but the water is still very cold. We tend to ignore the water temperature on a nice warm day, but warm weather does not cancel out the potential dangers of cold water. The risk of falling into the water or capsizing a boat, canoe, or kayak may be small, but the consequences could be fatal. Did you know that more than 50% of accidental drownings due to boating accidents occur in cold water?
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