Sea Kayaks-Dangerous?

I am thinking of purchasing a sea kayak and have no expeerience in one or a regular kayak. I would like to do some weekend camping with it. Are they dangerous? The type of waters will be coastal and sounds of north carolina. I am looking at a wooden one. Very Pretty. Would welcome all knowledge experienced comments on this.

Hi Ralph,

The kayak is not dangerous.

Bodies of water and what happens on them pose many types of dangers, which is why people in boats of all different types often get killed while using them.

I'm not an expert, but I think it is safe to say that most anyone would advise against an unexperienced kayaker paddling in coastal waters.

If you have never been in a kayak, it seems logical to rent or borrow the same model you are looking to buy, and (after making sure you have all of the necessary equipment with you, and of course wearing a PFD) try it out first in safer conditions, taking one or more experienced persons along with you. Depending on how you want to acquire your skills, you might want to consider taking formal lessons.

It's a fairly simple craft in many respects, but you will probably discover that it can tip over without too much trouble. Preventing that from happening, and also being able to deal with that situation if it does happen - in a variety of conditions - is a major aspect of kayaking safety.

Keenan

I would sugest that you take a class or a intrduction to kayaking at a local paddle shop. As a beginner you will find that most sea kayaks are tippy. A class will make your experience more enjoyable plus you will be able to test out some models.

HELLO !!! I am a new member here ,and an "old salt"everywhere else[lol],the Idea of kayaking is;1first learn to swim[sounds stupid -but you would be suprised ],2take classes [they will give you knowledge&experiance--also confidence!!!!3 go to as many "DEMO-DAYS"as are in your area,this will let you try out kayaks of ALL kinds,and you don't have to be by yourself -there will be others there to help&advise.fineally pick a boat that fits your "butt",because you WILL be in it A-LOT!!!!and being uncomfortable is NOT an option- - - -REALLY!!!.4lastly don't by an expensive boat to IMPRESS anyone ---the only people you will impress is the sales person!!!! find and join a local club in your area[this gives you a "friends group"of like minded people,and a support-teaching group".hope this helps LATER gumby/ zenkayaker&solo-canoeist SYOTW "remember;the only easyday,was,yesterday" "enjoy your days,and,remember your nites,2take classes [they will give you knowledge&experiance--also confidence!!!!3 go to as many "DEMO-DAYS"as are in your area,this will let you try out kayaks of ALL kinds,and you don't have to be by yourself -there will be others there to help&advise.fineally pick a boat that fits your "butt",because you WILL be in it A-LOT!!!!and being uncomfortable is NOT an option- - - -REALLY!!!.4lastly don't by an expensive boat to IMPRESS anyone ---the only people you will impress is the sales person!!!! find and join a local club in your area[this gives you a "friends group"of like minded people,and a support-teaching group".hope this helps LATER gumby/ zenkayaker&solo-canoeist SYOTW "remember;the only easyday,was,yesterday" "enjoy your days,and,remember your nites" "move,or die"

Hello Gumby, welcome to the forum

Very good tips you gave there. Thank you!

Morning Copper!!!!thanks man "just doing my duty",to help someone NEW to the sport.I would HATE to see someone on the news ,having DIED in a kayak through LACK of knowledge or instruction,when both are there for the asking.They say that knowledge is power - - heck I aught to be a freaking brainiac LOL,but occasionally even I do "stupid stuff"[plse do not spread this arround ]ha ha ha .WE in this sport do NOT need BAD press.I am willing to help anyone who seeks to be a kayaker.canoeist or anything to which I am profficent[or at least know alot]. "enjoy your days,and,remember your nites" "the only easyday,was,yesterday" " move or die" SYOTW

Morning over where you are Here, in Israel, it is late afternoon

Good day to you as well though - and thanks again. It is different to take chances after being fully knowledgeable of the risks one is taking (thus the value of your tips) - and getting into danger because of the lack of it.

Here, I've never heard of a Kayaker dying in an accident though. The 'news' is different where you're located?

nope "over "hear on the EAST coast ,it happens all to frequently,on occasion to white water yakkers

Ohmy The Atlantic must be so much more wild than the Mediterranean