5 Tips to Keep in Mind for A Successful Tandem Kayaking Trip

A tandem kayak is any kayak that is designed for two paddlers. Kayaks come in many shapes and sizes, depending on their use. Most types of kayaks are available in single-seater as well as two-seater models. So you will find tandem kayaks of different kinds, such as sea kayaks, recreational kayaks, playboats, and many more. Since two person sit inside kayak, tandem kayaks weigh heavier and have a longer length than single-seater kayaks. Being broad

er and having a greater length makes a tandem kayak more stable in water than its solo counterpart.

Tandem Kayaking: Are Two Hands Better Than One?

Kayaking is an activity that can be done alone or as a team, which makes tandem kayaking more of a choice rather than a necessity. You may wonder why someone would give control of the kayak to someone else if they are managing perfectly well, and you are not wrong to think that. But tandem kayaking has its benefits, and once you gain some experience, it can become a much more fun and rewarding experience than going on a solo water trip.

One advantage of tandem kayaking is that it is excellent for learners. In tandem kayaking, a less experienced person can pair up with an expert during the paddling trip and get a hands-on and active learning experience. This makes the learning process much faster than attempting to learn kayaking through a solo attempt. For the more experienced paddlers, it can be an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and teach a newcomer and, with time, gain a new friend.

Whether you're kayaking for sport or leisure, the risk of capsizing and potentially drowning is a genuine concern. Tandem kayaking, with its ability to keep everyone in close proximity, offers a safer paddling experience. This is particularly advantageous in group settings like camping trips. With tandem kayaking, experts can maintain a vigilant watch over the less experienced, preventing them from making a misstep when faced with challenging waves.

One of the many benefits of tandem kayaking is its inclusivity. The kayak can continue moving even if one person gets fatigued, making it ideal for long-distance trips. This feature is particularly beneficial for older individuals who may not have the same stamina as their younger counterparts. Tandem kayaking allows them to take breaks while their partner continues to paddle, making it a fun and accessible activity for all age groups.

If you aim to enjoy your kayaking trip to the utmost and own a tandem kayak, read below to find out the strategies and tips you need to make tandem kayaking a delightful and memorable experience.

Rhythm is the Name of The Game

Whether you are a newbie or an experienced solo kayaker, expecting to shoot through the water on your first tandem kayak trip is unrealistic. With two people paddling simultaneously, finding a rhythm that works for you and your teammate will take patience and communication. Simultaneous paddling involves dipping the paddles on the left and right sides together. Initially, there will be a difference in pace between the two paddlers, and one would need to adjust the frequency of movement to match the other for a smooth and successful tandem kayaking trip. It is common for even the most experienced paddlers to lose coordination in tandem kayaking, so don’t get frustrated if your partner makes a mistake.

The Front Paddler determines speed

The person seated in the front should determine the pace of paddling. The rear paddler is supposed to follow the lead because they can always see the front paddler. In this way, changing the speed of the kayak becomes possible. This would not be possible if the rear paddler was setting the pace. However, the front paddler can still take a break, and the back paddler will keep the kayak moving. In tandem kayaking, conveying tips and instructions to your partner is a vital part of the process. Make them aware if the pace is too slow or swift, and try to find a pace that suits both of you. In a more extended kayaking trip, conserving strength is even more critical; otherwise, you can end up with muscle cramps, so keep taking a break whenever you want to, and let your partner know when you intend to stop so they can keep pace accordingly.

Powerful Paddler in the Backseat

If your friend has a sturdier build and more incredible stamina than you, than he should be in the backseat. This is because powerful paddle strokes from the rear position are much better at steering and handling the kayak. The newbie paddler can sit in the front and set the pace according to their comfort. In this way, the front paddler can follow the faster pace of an expert paddler in the front position.

Steering is Controlled by the Rear Paddler

Many tandem kayaks designed for expeditions are equipped with foot-pedal-controlled rudders installed in the rear seat. However, even if your tandem kayak lacks a rudder, steering from the back is significantly easier. The front paddler must only alter their paddling technique if navigating through a congested area. Instead, the rear paddler can perform a few extra strokes on the same side to correct the course or use specific paddle strokes like the sweep or a wider forward stroke to achieve quicker turns. With a rudder, the need for such corrective strokes is eliminated, and the paddlers can maintain their usual paddling stroke while relying on the rudder for steering.