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Things to Know

September13
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The Common Terms Used When Kayaking

by Barbara Cosden in Things to Know

Kayak Terminology for Beginners on Kayaking Tours

Here are all the terms that can help you save yourself a whole lot of confusion and estrangement to the works of the wonderful world of kayaking tours.

Blade- The broad part on the end of a paddle.

Portage- This is to carry a kayak over land, and to switch waterways.

PFD- This is the acronym for Personal Floatation Device. All such devices are approved of by the Coast Guard.

Hull- The shape of a boat at the bottom, it determines how a vessel will perform in different conditions.

Bulkhead- The cross sectional wall that is present inside a kayak, it is made out of either foam, plastic, or composite. Bulkheads are great for giving structural support, and a watertight space for storage.

Cockpit- The central compartment which is usually enclosed and the space where a paddler sits.

Bulkhead/ Foot-pegs/ Foot-braces- These are adjustable mechanisms inside the kayak, where you can place the balls of your feet.

Roll- To correct the position of a kayak that has capsized, while you are still inside the vessel.

SOT- This is the acronym for sit-on-top kayak where a kayak without a cockpit is usually used to self ball with different foot brace configurations and foot braces. Most of these types of vessels are meant for racing and touring.

Wet Exit- Stepping out of capsized kayak.

Back Band- Also referred to as back rest, this is the feature that allows for lower back comfort while kayaking and also helps with keeping your posture erect. This is usually stored behind a seat.

Stern- The rear end of kayaks.

Trim- This is the leveling of bow to stern in a kayak and it affects the boat control. The best trim is one that is nearly level, but also has the stem lower a bit in the water.

High Brace- Also called the ‘Duffek Stroke’, is a strong back stroke, used when leaving or entering an eddy (a circular movement of water, counter to a main current, causing a small whirlpool.), this is the best defense a kayaker has against the prospect of the boat capsizing.

Low Brace- This is a supportive stroke where the arms are close to the body and low. The back face of a paddle is also braced to stand against the water.

Hung Up- A hung up kayak is one that is trapped in an obstruction.

Hydraulic- The spot around a river where the water flows backward, at the base of rocks.

Spray Skirt- A skirt that is crafted out of nylon or neoprene. This is worn by the kayaker while also being attached to the rim of the cockpit to keep out the water.

Knee/thigh Braces- These are commonly present in touring and whitewater kayaks. The braces are there for extra boat control.

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  • It is located in Fort Pierce by Barbara Cosden April 9, 2018
  • I would love to sign up for this event. I am ... by Renee April 8, 2018
  • Would like to reserve kayaks for me and my da... by Kristine March 28, 2018
  • No I'm sorry we don't but we will be doing it... by Barbara Cosden March 17, 2018
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We yes finish our kayak trip. I like to thank you for a wonderful experience during this weekend in the Weeki Wachee river. ENJOY to the max. Looking forward to the next one.
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This company is awesome! I took a tour with them and they took real good care of me. The tour was a blast! I'm looking forward to the next camping/kayaking tour!

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My fiance and I went kayaking for the first time yesterday. Barbara was extremely helpful, both with directing us on the best area to go and giving instructions on how to operate the kayaks. We had a lovely time visiting and picnicking on the islands. Will definitely do this again.

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Had an amazing afternoon island hopping, hunting for painted rocks and paddling with dolphin!

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I'd like to Thank Barbara for making sure we had a Great time kayaking for the 1st time!!! She knew exactly what we needed to know & made us feel so comfortable the entire time. The laughs, fun & sun, even a few drops of rain & beautiful scenery made for a Great day! We will definately do this again with You!! Loved it!!!!

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We took the Springs trip to Homosassa Springs and also kayaked to Three Sisters Springs . We had a great time and stayed in the beautiful cabin right on the water where we sat around the fire pit in the evening ,ate great food and the laughter was endless. Was a nice little getaway would love to do it again.

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Had an awesome day would like to do it again !! Thanks Barbara!

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Had a very fun experience we saw dolphins and you guys have an amazing price on the rentals.

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Barb's kayaking adventure was so much fun on Saturday I had to go again on Sunday!
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First time I had been kayaking and won't be the last. had a great time. Was the best day I had while in Florida. Thanks

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Had a great time this past Sunday 8-7-16, with kayaks & boards, water & weather where beautiful, group was awesome .

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Great experience, can't wait to do it again.

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