Archive for August, 2011
Sea Kayaking Starts Here
With more than 350 miles of scenic coastline, Oregon stands as one of the country’s premier destinations for sea kayaking. Not to be confused with its river-going brethren, the sea kayak is made seaworthy thanks to a covered deck. Sea kayaking trips can be lengthy, which is why the vessels offer plenty of cargo space for meals, spare clothing and other equipment.
It’s not uncommon for kayakers to rent sea eagle boats for days or even weeks at a time to go on prolonged expeditions, camping in parks along the shore at night. Agate Beach, a popular surfing destination near Newport on the Pacific shoreline, is also well known as a source for Oregon kayak rentals. If you’re looking to set out on a new adventure, sea kayaking could be just the ticket.
Life Vest Laws
Depending on where you are in the country, the weather is beginning to hint at spring. Just last week Seattle and San Francisco enjoyed some of the warmest weather in the country. Not to shabby for the first week of February! As the temperature rises, more and more people will flock to shores and lakes for boating.
No matter where you are in the country, you need to obey the life vest laws. For instance, in Washington state, all children under 12 years of age traveling in a boat 19 feet long or shorter must wear a life vest or life jacket at all times. Life jackets on board must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Life vests must be easily accessible in case of a boating accident or emergency. Even if your state’s law isn’t stringent, wearing a life vest or keeping one near by is a good safety precaution, even if you are floating down the river in an inflatable pontoon.
Bungee Cords Be Gone!
When my dad was sixteen years old he bought himself a green, six-person Coleman canoe. I have fond memories of canoeing trips as a child in that big old green canoe, but as time went on we used the canoe less and less. It just wasn’t worth the hassle of trying to get the canoe on top of the car, held down with a million bungee cords.
I recently found a much better, portable alternative. For my parents’ anniversary, I surprised them with a 2 person inflatable kayak. It folds up small, like a piece of carry-on luggage, so it doesn’t have to be strapped to the roof. The kayak is easy to set up, it’s durable, and comfortable. My parents are excited to get back out on the lake again without having to schlep the canoe.