SiamKayak

At the beginning of each trip, Roy introduces the kayak and teaches paddling skills to guests not familiar with them (at least 50% of guests haven't paddled before). Guests who have paddled a kayak before will feel at home in these traditional sea kayaks. We have different size kayaks appropriate for different body shapes and sizes. This is to maximize your energy, your efficiency while paddling. A smaller person gets a somewhat shorter, lighter boat that is easier to move through the water. A taller or heavier person gets a longer, wider boat for stability and comfort.

Safety issues are explained on the first day of each trip. Once the kayaks are launched and paddling begins, Roy and Anya observe each beginning or novice kayaker and advise about paddling more efficiently or steering the kayak more easily. Proper technique reduces fatigue and soreness at the end of the day. The confidence and comfort that come from good paddling technique allow us to turn our attention outward and enjoy the wonderful sights and sounds!

At the introductory meeting and again each evening, the day's itinerary will be given. Many special places are only accessible at certain tide levels. So the daily itineraries are changed as necessary to give the best experience of these special locations. Nautical charts will be used as appropriate to track our location; many guests like to keep record of where they've been. Dry bags are furnished so personal items can be carried with no worries about water damage.

As Siam Kayak groups are small, there are more opportunities for meeting local people than one would have traveling with a big group. Roy offered these observations, "As we are off the normal tourist route, we may encounter Thai people with relatively little experience of foreigners. Local people see us visitors being friendly, not littering or harming the surrounding area. The impressions people have of us through our conduct, curiosity, and friendliness are lasting. We feel this is an important part of eco-tourism."

Siam Kayak can be flexible in accommodating its guests. An older couple contacted Roy and Anya about an orchid viewing trip. But physically they were not up to the paddling. The couple did get to see the orchids; Roy and Anya each paddled a double kayak and the couple rode in the bow positions and took pictures.