Why a Sea Kayak?

Siam Kayak uses modern decked sea kayaks, also called sea canoes in many countries, as our transportation into beautiful places. Kayaks are silent, non-polluting, non-intrusive, easily maneuverable, comfortable and safe. Each kayak provides adequate space for one person and storage for all the gear a person may need for the day. Small items like camera, binoculars and sunscreen can be carried in the cockpit for easy access. A 'decked' kayak is easy to recognize.

A person sits inside of it and may use a nylon 'spray skirt' (worn around the torso and attached to the rim of the cockpit) to keep water from entering the boat. Also, the front deck of the boat protects the legs, which are extended in front of the seat, from the sun. On bright sunny days, this is a very important benefit of the decked kayak. In the event of rain, the spray skirt is used to keep the rain out and the warmth in. There are big differences between our decked kayaks (canoes) and other small boats such as the common sit-on-top 'kayaks'.

Each person paddles a kayak. (Two-person kayaks are available in the event a person is not able to paddle.) Paddling does not require a strong upper body or a high degree of fitness. Once the boat is in motion, the easy rhythm of dipping the paddle into the water and pulling it moves the boat through the water. The motion is easy to learn; basic instructions are given on the first day. The trip leader and the guides observe each person and make additional suggestions as appropriate. A smooth stroke maintains the momentum and quickly becomes second nature. Proper technique reduces fatigue and soreness at the end of the day. With the confidence and comfort that come from good paddling technique, each person is free to enjoy the wonderful sights and sounds of nature! Moderate stamina is useful.

A person who engages in some moderate exercise should have no problems with paddling on our trips. Of course, rest breaks are taken as needed. If a person has any question about his or her ability to paddle, just mention it when communicating with us. If there is any medical question about one's fitness or the effect paddling may have on one's health it is best to consult your doctor before the trip.

Decked boats are suitable for any water conditions from smooth-as-glass to choppy (including rough water, but we won't be going out in the 'big stuff'). They are more efficient than sit-on-top boats or inflatable boats. They are designed to move through the water while maintaining a steady direction. Good quality boats and paddles, along with competent personal instruction in paddling technique insure energy used in paddling produces maximum progress through the water. Now we're ready to explore some of southern Thailand's most special places!

Traditional decked kayaks as used by Siam Kayak are different from beach rental boats. In a decked kayak, the paddler can put on a sprayskirt to create a seal between the paddler's body and the cockpit rim so that water cannot enter the boat. As with a whitewater kayak, the paddler essentially 'wears' the boat and it is an extension of the paddler. This provides an intimate, and safe, relationship between boat, paddler, and the water.

Self-bailing sit-on-tops are adequate for short distance paddling where efficiency (attaining maximum distance and speed for the effort used paddling) is not important. This type boat is found at most beach hotels. Most of these boats leak (take on water through cracks or flaws in the hull), and some leak more quickly than others. 'Leaking' means the boat increases in weight as it is paddled. If a leaky boat is used to cross open water to another beach or island, it could result in a real problem.

Recreational kayaks are made of fiberglass or plastic. A paddler sits inside, surrounded by a partial deck, but with no means of sealing the open area to prevent entry of water. These too are available for rent on many beaches. Here's the danger; with any 'recreational' kayak, water from waves or rain that enters the boat, stays in the boat. Other than bailing with a bucket, there's no way to remove the water. As water accumulates in the boat, it becomes heavier and lower in the water, unstable, and more difficult to paddle. This type boat is inherently dangerous for use in the ocean. People with no training or background rent these boats at their own very real risk.

Inflatables may be good for cave exploration. Ever try paddling an inflatable on open water on a windy day? It is not fun.

We take a maximum of six people on each trip. It is easier to provide good service to a small group, both on the water and at the bungalows. Logistics and transportation are less complicated. This means more time for paddling and enjoyment!

Our boats have rudders. Kayaks don't need rudders. However, in windy or choppy conditions using a rudder makes it easier to maintain a particular direction. A kayak without a rudder requires the paddler to give more attention and effort to maintaining a course (direction) if wind or current are present.

We issue and always carry basic safety gear of lifejacket (PFD) and spray skirt. In the event of rain, wearing the PFD adds warmth and the spray skirt keeps rain out of the boat and keeps body warmth inside.


A word about kayak instruction:

For many of our guests, kayaking is a new experience. Lessons in paddling technique and safety procedures are taught on the first day, and follow-up instruction and pointers are given as needed. Guests with previous experience can work on skills and develop more advanced techniques such as bracing (useful in choppy or turbulent water), the draw stroke (useful when approaching a pier or escort boat), and basic wave surfing (for controlled beach landings as well as pure exciting fun).

Kayaking is for everyone! Children, retired people, and those who must buy their clothes from the 'Large and Tall' shop--any reasonably fit person can learn. Caution: anyone with heart-related problems should consult their physician as moderate stamina is necessary for kayaking. The trips vary in terms of how much stamina may be necessary. The Islands of Trang trip involves longer paddles and optional open water crossing between islands. The Khao Sok trip involves paddling on a freshwater reservoir with occasional wind or rain the only challenge. In Phang Nga Bay we paddle around or between small islands. No one session is very long.

A typical beginner has a learning curve of about forty-five minutes to one hour, after which time the comfort level is much higher and control over the kayak is more reliable. This is a small investment of time given all there is to see and do while sitting in a kayak and moving through the water under one's own power. And remember; it's a lot easier to learn any water sport in warm water!

There is a big contrast between whitewater kayaking (as seen in TV commercials and shows about 'extreme' sports) and sea kayaking. Paddling whitewater requires substantial mind-body coordination and solid self-confidence. As with downhill skiing, maintaining balance in a rapidly changing environment is all-important. Strength is secondary to balance, although short bursts of full power are sometimes necessary.

Sea kayaking is a more 'laid-back' sport. As control of the kayak improves, a new paddler feels more confident in the boat. This increased confidence allows a person to be more relaxed while in the kayak. A relaxed body is the key to stability while paddling, whether the water's surface is calm or very choppy.

Our systematic teaching, with observation of the person's technique and further suggestions as necessary, allows the growth of skills and confidence in a short time. With a confident attitude toward the paddling itself, a person can comfortably look around and absorb the wonderful sights. Paddling becomes as natural as walking, and each stroke brings a new angle, a fresh perspective on the wonderful sights and sounds of the rich tropical environment!

Siam Kayak's tour leader has come from a whitewater background where safety and rescue procedures are vitally important. This attention to safety carries over to sea kayaking and is the primary consideration for every Siam Kayak tour. This is a major attraction of taking a guided trip. Renting kayaks allows freedom of choice and movement, but each person is responsible for his or her own safety.

In booking with Siam Kayak, you will make the best use of your holiday time. It would take countless hours of research to discover the best places to visit, the most comfortable places to stay, the most interesting cultural interactions. We have lived in Phuket and traveled around southern Thailand for nine years. We've had years experience kayaking in the lovely, special beaches, headlands, islands and caves. Now we take guests with us to share the joy. You will benefit from our knowledge and ability to arrange for comfortable lodging and delicious meals. We can make arrangements for special dietary considerations; just let us know in advance.

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