Can I use a canoe in the sea? (Rules and Safety Guidelines)
Picture a relaxing summer afternoon paddling around your favorite lake. Your canoe is the perfect vessel for this endeavor. But you hear the ocean waves calling you, which makes you wonder if you can canoe in the ocean.
Yes, you can use a canoe in the ocean. There are safety precautions to consider before you take to the waves. Knowledge of your equipment, waves, and safety protocol is crucial to an enjoyable and safe paddle on the waves.
Continue reading to find information on how you can safely have a new canoeing experience.
Equipment for Ocean Paddling
Canoes have been around for thousands of years and have traversed through countless waterways. Knowledge of your canoe and accessories will help make your venture on the seas more enjoyable and safer.
There are numerous styles of canoes. Consider where and in what conditions you intend on canoeing; then familiarize yourself with options available. For ocean canoeing, you want to explore hull designs that easily glide through the water.
Hull designs with the following bottom formations are your best options for ocean canoeing.
- arch bottom
- shallow-v
- flared sides
- outriggers.
The reason why these will work best for you is that they sit lower in the water. Since you are deeper in the water, the boat is more stable as you paddle through the waves. Flared sides fend off waves. By repelling the waves, the chance of water entering your canoe is reduced.
Outriggers are a category of their own canoe. With flotation devices attached to their sides, outriggers are more apt to stay afloat in rough waters.
The following hull designs are not recommended for ocean paddling. These types of canoe bottoms include a flat bottom, round bottom, and straight side. Since they do not effortlessly slice through rough waters, these canoe bottoms are best suited for tranquil waters.
Canoes are open vessels. Water from waves can crash into your canoe. Splash covers for the ocean and large lake paddling are great accessories for you. These covers can keep you and your passenger drier. Splash covers can reduce the effects of wind and waves.
Ocean Waves and Canoeing
Calm ocean waters and hugging the shoreline are the best maiden voyage for a novice canoeist. As you become ready to venture from the shoreline, learning more about waves will let your adventurist spirit explore.
Learning to interpret the water, will allow you the time to anticipate the actions of the waves. This takes practice and experience. Knowing the local tides schedule will allow you to plan for a trip that matches your experience and thirst for adventure.
Strong paddling is also necessary for an ocean canoeist. In addition to strength, endurance is required, so you can continue paddling the entire voyage. Stamina is also needed so that you do not take your paddles out of the water. Removing your paddles from the water gives control of your canoe to the wind and water.
Try not to position your canoe parallel to the waves; this is its least protected place. Begin paddling into the waves but watch out for water entering the canoe. Take on the waves at a 45-degree angle. This will reduce the splash effect. Keep the wind and waves at your back.
Be vigilant- watch for strong winds, rogue waves, and large waves.
Not sure whether to get a kayak or canoe? Here are the pros and cons of each.
Just in Case
Planning is essential for a successful voyage. Even though you are not crossing the Atlantic, you still should map your course in advance. Charting your course should include knowing the tides and any inlets in which you might canoe. In addition, a copy of those plans should be left with someone onshore.
Before you set out, know the steps to take if your canoe takes on water or flips over. Depending on how far from shore you are venturing, a knowledge of deep-water rescue, sea life, crosswinds, and rogue waves is needed.
Safety First on all Waterways
Many of the safety precautions needed for canoeing on the ocean are the same as you should follow for lake or river canoeing. Good boating practices are essential regardless of the body of water on which you choose to boat.
Always wear your personal floatation device, frequently referred to as a PFD. Since a PFD is indispensable, select a PFD that fits correctly and is comfortable to wear. There is a much greater chance that you and your boating companions will wear your PFD if it fits effortlessly.
As with any type of vehicle operation, drinking does not mix. Safe boating requires that you can think lucidly in all situations. If an emergency arose, you must act quickly and logically to ensure your safety and the safety of those with whom you are boating.
It is safer to boat with a companion. If your canoe is a one-person vessel, canoe with a group of canoeists. When there are multiple canoes in a party, select one canoe to be the lead vessel. This canoe should lead the way and take charge in an emergency.
Related Questions
Will the saltwater damage my canoe?
Saltwater can be corrosive to many components of canoes. Ocean elements are particularly harsh on aluminum and metal. Make sure you know what materials were used in the construction of your canoe. Frequently inspect all components of your canoe for corrosion.
Do I need a license to canoe on the ocean?
Expectations for licenses for you and your vessel vary. Requirements for licenses depend on the body of water on which you are going to canoe. Each type of body of water can have a different agency that regulates it. Check with your local regulatory agency.
Please note: This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult a legal expert or medical professional to address your specific needs.