How to Escape a Kayak in 5 Easy Steps

Getting in and out of a kayak can be tricky, but it’s an essential skill for any kayaker. There are a few different ways to do it, depending on the type of kayak you have and the conditions you’re in.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the different methods for getting out of a kayak, as well as some tips for staying safe. We’ll also cover what to do if you capsize and need to get back in your kayak.

So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned kayaker, read on for all the information you need to know about getting out of a kayak.

So How To Get Out Of A Kayak?

To get out of a kayak, first sit up and place your paddle across the boat in front of you. Then, grab the sides of the kayak with both hands and pull yourself up and out. Finally, step away from the kayak and onto the shore.

How To Get Out Of A Kayak

Step 1: Prepare Your Kayak

Before you try to get out of your kayak, there are a few things you need to do to prepare it. First, make sure that your kayak is stable. If it is not stable, you will not be able to get out of it safely. Second, make sure that your kayak is in shallow water. If it is in deep water, you will not be able to get out of it without help.

Step 2: Position Yourself

Once you have prepared your kayak, you need to position yourself correctly. You should sit in the middle of the kayak, with your feet facing forward. You should also have your paddle in your hands, ready to use.

Step 3: Exit The Kayak

To exit the kayak, you need to lean back and swing your legs over the side. As you do this, use your paddle to push yourself away from the kayak. Once you are clear of the kayak, you can stand up and walk away.

Tips for Getting Out of a Kayak

Here are a few tips for getting out of a kayak safely:

Practice in shallow water:
The best way to learn how to get out of a kayak is to practice in shallow water. This will give you a chance to get used to the motion and to make sure that you are doing it correctly.

Use your paddle:
Your paddle can be a valuable tool for getting out of a kayak. Use it to push yourself away from the kayak and to stabilize yourself as you are getting out.

Be careful not to flip your kayak:
When you are getting out of a kayak, it is important to be careful not to flip it. To avoid this, make sure that you are leaning back and swinging your legs over the side slowly and smoothly.

Don’t panic:
If you start to panic, you are more likely to make a mistake. If you feel like you are going to flip your kayak, stay calm and focus on getting out safely.

Also Read THIS: How To Hang A Kayak In A Garage

FAQs: How To Get Out Of A Kayak

How do I get out of a kayak if it’s upside down?

To get out of a kayak if it’s upside down, follow these steps:

1. Roll the kayak back over: To do this, grab the front of the kayak with both hands and pull it up and over your head. Once the kayak is right-side up, you can release your grip on the kayak and stand up.
2. Climb out of the kayak: To do this, place one foot on the edge of the kayak and use your other foot to push yourself up and out of the kayak.
3. Get your balance: Once you’re out of the kayak, take a few steps to get your balance. You may need to sit down or hold onto something to steady yourself.

What if I can’t roll the kayak back over?

If you can’t roll the kayak back over, you can try to self-rescue using the following steps:

1. Grab the kayak’s bowline: The bowline is a rope that is attached to the front of the kayak. Grab the bowline with both hands and pull it tight. This will help to stabilize the kayak and make it easier to roll over.
2. Kick your legs up: Kick your legs up as hard as you can. This will help to create momentum and flip the kayak over.
3. Roll the kayak over: Once you have enough momentum, roll the kayak over by pushing down on the water with your hands and feet.

What if I’m wearing a PFD?

If you’re wearing a PFD, you can use it to help you get out of a kayak if it’s upside down. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Grab the PFD’s front grab loop: The front grab loop is a loop of rope that is attached to the front of the PFD. Grab the grab loop with both hands and pull it tight.
2. Kick your legs up: Kick your legs up as hard as you can. This will help to create momentum and flip the kayak over.
3. Roll the kayak over: Once you have enough momentum, roll the kayak over by pushing down on the water with your hands and feet.

What if I’m in a group?

If you’re in a group, you can help each other get out of a kayak if it’s upside down. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Flip the kayak back over: One person should grab the front of the kayak and pull it up and over their head. Once the kayak is right-side up, everyone can release their grip on the kayak and stand up.
2. Help each other out: Once everyone is out of the kayak, you can help each other get your balance. You may need to sit down or hold onto something to steady yourselves.

What if I’m alone?

If you’re alone, you can still get out of a kayak if it’s upside down. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Roll the kayak back over: To do this, grab the front of the kayak with both hands and pull it up and over your head. Once the kayak is right-side up, you can release your grip on the kayak and stand up.
2. Get your balance: Once you’re out of the kayak, take a few steps to get your balance. You may need to sit down or hold onto something to steady yourself.
3. Call for help: Once you’re safe, call for help so that someone can come and help you get your kayak back upright.