Kayak With a Friend in Tandem

By K.L. Amadio

Kayaking is an increasingly popular adventure sport. Initially, kayaks were designed to accommodate only one person. Now, with the advent of tandem kayaks you can navigate through rapids, paddle beautiful oceans or glide across still lakes and through hidden waterways together in the same boat.

A tandem kayak is also referred to as a double obviously because it can accommodate two people. This style of kayak is perfect for beginners that are reluctant about going it alone on the water. Grab a buddy and travel together in a tandem kayak.

The only rules you should follow are self imposed. Experienced boaters bring kids, friends and even pets along for the ride in a tandem kayak. A great thing about doubles is that the second passenger doesn't actually have to do any paddling. If they are inexperienced, disinclined or incapable of paddling, that's fine. They can simply enjoy the scenery and the luxury of being on the water.

Tandem kayaks are wider so they are much more stable than single-man kayaks. This means that the additional person and you will still enjoy a safe kayaking experience.

For families, tandem kayaking is an excellent option. If the kids are very young, parents can keep them on their laps. Older kids can sit flanked by parents where they will be safe. This means the entire family can enjoy a day on the water safely.

Make sure to consider who's sitting where before jumping in the boat. Careful consideration to this question will aid in creating a smooth and simple journey.

Consider weight and size of everyone in the party and try to divvy up as evenly as possible per boat. If the more experienced kayaker sits in the rear then he or she can properly direct the boat since the person seated in back steers. Sometimes, even the weight of paddle will determine seating arrangements; but remember that the greater weight should be kept to the rear seat.

The two people sitting in a tandem kayak should try to work as team. If the second person has not just come along for the ride and both are paddling, the tandem kayak will be much quicker. When paddling is done in unison, kayaking can be efficient. It's the quickest way of kayaking as long as there isn't too much clashing of paddles.

Tandem kayak with a partner and work together for a great ride.