To enter and exit a kayak is different depending on the type of kayak you have, the conditions and the location. The process for entering Sit-On-Top (SOT) kayaks is a bit different than the traditional Sit-In kayaks. Likewise, the water conditions play a role as does terrain.
Enter from Shore
The type of kayak you have determines the process for entering and exiting your boat. Also, personal preference plays a significant role. There are numerous resources just like this one that have a particular preference, but even among other reputable sources, professionals don’t all agree.
For example, some say you should have the bow of your kayak pointed away from shore and that you should straddle the boat. From here you place your paddle under your deck lines, grab the cockpit and ease yourself into the seat. Then you lift your legs and feet into the cockpit and set your feet on the foot pegs.
This method is perfectly fine. However, you may need to use your paddle as an outrigger as indicated in the photo above. Why? My favorite kayak is so wide, that I cannot straddle it. So the straddle method just doesn’t work for me. Even with a thinner kayak, many people will not have the size or dexterity to use this method, so lets look at another option.
Many resources teach paddlers to brace the paddle behind the cockpit and use the paddle for stability on land. I find in most cases, placing the paddle in front of the cockpit is more comfortable and places less awkward pressure on my joints. This approach allows the kayaker to maintain a three point contact much like the process for entering a canoe. Here you simply enter the kayak with the paddle braced across the deck and on land while you step down and into the boat.
Getting in and out of a Sit-On-Top (SOT) Kayak is much the same as the traditional sit-in kayak, but you sit on the seat instead of in the seat. Otherwise, the techniques are comparable and the same process applies.
Exit On Shore
Here it is recommended to paddle directly into the bank, preferably without beaching yourself. Now you can reverse the process for entering the kayak by straddle method or with your paddle as an outrigger. Just remember to make sure to maintain balance throughout the process. This should be a smooth and relatively swift action that allows you to maintain control but doesn’t take but a few seconds.
Enter from a Dock
With your boat parallel to the dock, set your paddle on the dock within arms reach. Sit on the dock and face the boat using your feet as a guide. Some experts recommend keeping both hands on the dock while you twist your body and slide your feet forward so you come to sit in the kayak.
Another way to enter would be to place one hand behind the coaming of the cockpit and keep one hand on the deck while you ease yourself down. Just remember that this method can place added pressure on your joints and it may not be suitable for all kayakers. However, using a canoe entry method and maintaining three points of contact, you can place a hand in front of the cockpit coaming and ease yourself down as well.
Don’t forget that if the dock is low enough, you can even use your paddle as an outrigger to the dock. This method is the same as for shore entry or exit, but the paddle reaches out to the dock instead of the shore.
Exit to Dock
Bring your kayak to parallel with the dock and place your paddle on the dock. Rotate your body to face and place both hands on the dock. Keeping your weight centered in the boat, begin to rise out of the cockpit transferring weight to your hands. Once you are standing, rotate to sit on the dock, keeping control of the boat with your feet.
Remember, if the dock is low, you can use your paddle as an outrigger. The paddle can be placed in front or behind the cockpit, depending on your preference and comfort level with each technique.
This process is easily repeatable for SOT kayaks. One thing to keep in mind is that many (not all) SOT kayaks are very stable and may require less effort to enter and exit. However, regardless of the type of kayak, they are the least stable during entry and exit, so practicing these techniques and finding what works best for your and your boat is crucial to a fun, safe day kayaking.
Regardless of your technique or boat type, it is your responsibility to be prepared for your adventure. Be smart, be safe and we will see you on the water.