Inflatable kayaks are not just for lakes and rivers. They can be used in the ocean as well. However, there are a few things you should know before taking on this adventurous activity.
Can You Use an Inflatable Kayak in The Ocean?
Yes, you can use an inflatable kayak in the ocean. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers and take necessary precautions. The ocean is a much more dangerous environment than a calm lake or river, and many things can go wrong while kayaking in the ocean.
- Be aware of large waves and rip currents. These can easily capsize an inflatable kayak.
- Make sure you know your limits and stay within them. Kayaking in the ocean can be much more challenging than kayaking on a calm lake or river.
- Always wear a life jacket, even if you are an experienced kayaker. A life jacket can save your life in the event of an accident.
- Be aware of jellyfish and sharks. While these creatures are not as likely to be a problem as large waves, they should still be considered.
- Do not head away from shore alone or at night. The ocean is a much larger environment than a lake or river and it can be easy to get lost or disorientated.
- Make sure you know your surroundings and stay away from shipping lanes and oil rigs.
If you follow these simple precautions, you should be able to enjoy a fun kayaking trip in the ocean with no problems. Just make sure that you are aware of your limits and always wear a life jacket.
What is Inflatable Kayak
Inflatable kayaks are a fun and convenient way to enjoy a day out on the water. They are lightweight, compact, and easy to set up. Inflatable kayaks can be taken anywhere, from calm lakes to raging rivers and even in the ocean.
What Are Inflatable Kayaks Made Of
Inflatable kayaks are made of either PVC or Hypalon. PVC is less expensive but less durable than Hypalon. Most inflatable kayaks are made of PVC because it is more affordable.
Hypalon is a synthetic rubber, made by DuPont, that is resistant to UV rays and abrasion. It was originally developed for the military and is now used in some applications, including inflatable boats and whitewater rafts. Because Hypalon is more durable than PVC, it tends to be more expensive. However, because of its durability and resistance to harsh environments, it is preferable for inflatable kayaks that will be used in the ocean.
Which Inflatable Kayak Is Right for Me?
Rigid: Rigid inflatable kayaks do not fold up like most inflatable boats. They resemble hard shell kayaks and roll up for easy storage and transport. These types of inflatable kayaks are the most durable, but they are also the heaviest and most difficult to set up.
Semi-Rigid: Semi-rigid inflatable kayaks have a rigid floor and side panels but an inflated bow and stern. They are lightweight and easy to set up but maybe less durable than rigid kayaks.
How Are Inflatable Kayaks Eflated
There are a few different ways that inflatable kayaks can be inflated. Many kayaks come with a hand pump that can be used to blow air into the kayak. Some kayaks also come with an electric pump, which makes inflating the kayak much easier. If your kayak does not come with a pump, you can use a bicycle pump or even an air compressor to get the job done.
Once the kayak is inflated, it is important to check for any leaks. You can do this by spraying water onto the surface of the kayak and looking for any bubbles that form. If you do notice any leaks, you can seal them up by using a sealant or by using duct tape.
How to Inflate the Kayak
Open all of the valves. If you have a hand pump, plug one end of it into an opening on your kayak and the other end into an air compressor.
If you have an electric pump, connect it to an outlet and start powering up your pump.
Once your kayak is filled, make sure to check for any leaks. Spray water onto the surface of the kayak and look for bubbles to indicate where there are holes or tears in the seams. If you notice anything, take a piece of duct tape or use some sealant to patch it up.
How do You Pack an Inflatable Kayak for Ocean
Many inflatable kayaks come with a carrying bag and separate compartments that can be used to store and carry your gear. Your inflatable kayak should also have a place where you can attach the seat.
When packing, make sure to treat your inflatable kayak gently and do not bend it too much or turn it upside down. Many inflatable kayaks have a rubberized coating, which can be scratched if you are not careful.
You should also check that your inflatable kayak is completely dry before you pack it up. If there is any water left in the boat from when you were last using it, leave it out to dry for a few hours before packing it away.
If you store your inflatable kayak for a long time, make sure to brush the inside and dry it out before packing it away.
How Do You Store an Inflatable Kayak for Ocean
Many inflatable kayaks come with carrying bags that can be used to store the boat between uses. When storing your inflatable kayak, make sure that it is completely dry before you pack it up. If there is any water left in the kayak from when you were last using it, leave it out to dry for a few hours before packing it away.
If you store your inflatable kayak for an extended time, be sure to brush the inside and dry it out before packing it away.
How Stable is an Inflatable Kayak in the Ocean?
Inflatable kayaks are usually more stable than many other inflatable boats. Inflatable kayaks have rigid floor and side panels, which make them much easier to maneuver and control. Inflatable kayaks with multiple chambers are even more difficult to flip over because the water rushes into only one area of the boat if it does capsize.
How Long do Inflatable Kayaks Last for in the Ocean?
Inflatable kayaks can last for a long time if they are well maintained and cared for. When being used, inflatable kayaks should be checked often for any leaks or tears in the seams. After each use, an inflatable kayak should be brushed out and any water left in the kayak should be drained.
Is It True that Inflatable Kayaks Are More Durable than Traditional Wooden Kayaks?
Inflatable kayaks can last for a long time if they are well maintained and cared for. Inflatable kayaks typically do not suffer from rot or leaks like wooden kayaks can and will often last longer than traditional wooden kayaks.
Is It Easy to Transport an Inflatable Kayak in The Ocean?
Inflatable kayaks can be difficult to transport through the water and may need a helping hand in some areas. If you plan on transporting your kayak overland, you should use two people. One person should carry the bow of the kayak while the other carries the stern. When traveling by sea, you can bring along a motorboat or use an electric-powered motor to conveniently and quickly navigate the waters.
Is It Easy for Inflatable Kayaks to Handle Currents and Rough Waves?
Inflatable kayaks are best used in calmer waters and on smaller lakes and rivers. Inflatable kayaks tend to capsize when encountering high waves and currents, especially because inflatable kayaks are not typically made for such conditions.
Do Inflatable Kayaks Have Punctures?
Inflatable kayaks can puncture if the user is not careful. When traveling through shallow waters, you should always be aware of what is below you and avoid any sharp objects such as rocks or coral reefs.
When using your inflatable kayak on a river, it is important to watch out for fallen branches and other debris that may puncture your kayak. Always be aware of what is around you when using an inflatable kayak in these types of conditions.
Is It Safe to Use an Inflatable Kayak on The Ocean?
If you plan on using your inflatable kayak in the ocean, make sure to avoid any sharp objects such as rocks or coral reefs. Inflatable kayaks are not made to withstand currents and high waves, which makes them difficult to use when in these conditions.
If your inflatable kayak does puncture, make sure to seal it up as soon as possible using a water-sealing compound or a patching kit. If you cannot fix your inflatable kayak, you should ask yourself if it is safe to use an inflatable kayak in the ocean at all.
Are There Any Risks Involved with Using an Inflatable Kayak on The Ocean?
A punctured inflatable kayak cannot be repaired because the water will rush in and fill up the entire kayak. If the water enters your inflatable kayak, you should immediately try to pump it out before turning your attention to any potential leaks. Also, be very aware of where you are when using an inflatable boat on the ocean because they can easily flip over if startled or caught in a current.
Inflatable kayaks are not typically designed to be used in the ocean and will capsize easily when encountering high waves and currents. If you plan on using inflatable kayaks in the ocean, you should only use them near protected shorelines where there is little chance of an ocean current or wave.
Is It Possible for Inflatable Kayaks to Sink?
Inflatable kayaks do not typically sink. However, they can deflate and become filled with water. In this situation, you should let your inflatable kayak dry in the sun before attempting to re-inflate it.
If your inflatable kayak takes on too much water and begins to sink, you should use a pump or compressed air canister to get out all of the water. If you cannot get the water out yourself, ask for help while keeping an eye on your kayak to make sure it does not take on more water.
Are Inflatable Kayaks for The Ocean Difficult to Steer?
Inflatable kayaks are relatively easy to maneuver. Instead of paddling, you can use the motor on your boat or a trolling motor attached to your inflatable kayak. You can also paddle without any problems. If you don’t want to use a motor or paddle, ask for help while keeping an eye Good for the Ocean
Inflatable kayaks are good for ocean experiences because they are not as heavy as other kayaks, making it easy to pick them up and carry them onshore. They are also less expensive than traditional hardshell kayaks.
Is It Possible for Inflatable Kayaks to Tip Over?
Yes, an inflatable kayak can tip over. However, the risk of tipping over is much lower than that of a traditional hardshell kayak because inflatable kayaks are much more stable in water. Make sure to only inflate your inflatable kayak once you arrive at your destination, as inflating it beforehand will cause it to flip over while you are transporting it.
Once you are in your inflatable kayak, avoid any sharp objects that might puncture the bottom of your kayak. If an object falls out of your hand and hits the floor of your kayak, make sure to turn around and get it before continuing with paddling.
You should also always be aware of your surroundings when using an inflatable kayak because they can easily be caught in a current or wave and flipped over. If the water is too rough, you should ask for help, as it will be difficult to paddle out of dangerous conditions on your own.
What Makes an Inflatable Kayak that Can Be Used in The Ocean?
Inflatable kayaks that are good for the ocean have a flatter bottom, as this makes them less likely to capsize. They should also be made from materials that are thicker and more durable, as they will be used in rougher water conditions.
The best inflatable boats can hold up to 500 pounds of weight and remain stable even when fully inflated. Before you buy an inflatable kayak, make sure it is appropriate to the type of water you plan on using it and that it can withstand any waves or currents without capsizing.
Inflatable Kayak Tips for Beginners
It is not hard to get started with inflatable kayaks. If you are used to using rigid kayaks, the transition will be pretty simple.
- Be aware of how wind can affect your kayak. The wind is much more likely to affect an inflatable kayak than a regular one because it has less resistance in the water.
- Plan your trip according to the wind. If you want to go kayaking during your time off, consider the wind. The direction of the wind will determine where you can go, so plan accordingly.
- Always be aware of how much weight is in your kayak at all times. A full inflatable kayak may be more likely to flip than a full rigid kayak, so be aware of how much gear you are taking with you.
- If your inflatable kayak is filled with water, call for help immediately. It will be harder to re-float an inflatable filled with water than one that just tipped over.
- Make sure your paddles can cut through the water. If the kayak is moving slower than usual, you may need to replace your paddles.
Those are just a few tips for beginners who want to start using inflatable kayaks. They may seem like common sense and they will most likely become second nature as you continue to use them, but it is always good to be prepared.
Is an Inflatable Kayak Worth It?
Inflatable kayaks, or inflatables for short, are a relatively new form of kayaks. The main difference between an inflatable and a regular hard-shell kayak is that instead of being made from a single piece of molded plastic, inflatable kayaks consist of multiple high-pressure chambers that are connected by a series of inflatable tubes.
These chambers are the reason why inflatables can be inflated and deflated quickly with a small hand pump, which makes them easier to transport compared to hard-shell kayaks.
However, one of the main disadvantages that most people point out when trying to determine if an inflatable kayak is worth it is that inflatable kayaks are known to lack the structural integrity and durability of hard-shell kayaks.
Because of this, many people believe that inflatable kayaks simply cannot be used in the ocean.
Conclusion
Inflatable kayaks are good for ocean experiences because they are not as heavy as other kayaks, making it easy to pick them up and carry them onshore. They are also less expensive than traditional hardshell kayaks.
An inflatable kayak can tip over if you hit rocks or sharp objects inside the boat, so be careful when transporting it. Also, avoid any sudden jolts that may cause your boat to tip over. If you are careful, you should be able to use an inflatable kayak without any problems in the ocean.