Looking for some advice

pervertedcoffee

Hi guys,

Sorry I know you guys must get people looking for advice all the time! Here's another one! :rolleyes:

A few years ago I used to go sea kayaking in a 'sit on top' (I think is what they're called) with my doggie in the kayak with me. I used to rent the kayaks from a family friend so I have no idea what I used!

I've now moved to another sea side town and want to take it up again for the summer as a fun thing to do for me and Bam Bam. I was just wondering if you guys have any recommendations about the kind of sit on top that would be good for the Kilcoole/Greystones area for me and a 35+kg dog.

I was also wondering if the level two assessment would be enough to at least get me paddling a wee bit around on my own, for me to be able to recognize when it's not a good idea to go out, etc. because before now I would rely on that family friend for advice but now I'm on the other end of the country so...

Any help appreciated

SUPing

First question is a biggy which Kayak to get My advice would be take an Hour and pop into I-canoe over in parkwest and they will give you tonnes of advice as they stock and can get in afew options and will give you lots of genuine advise (www.i-canoe.com)

As for your second question level 2 will give you the skills to move the kayak around a flat water environment, depending on the course, who runs it you might get abit of info to help you make decisions on where/when is safe to paddle. There is a big difference between safety on the river and sea. The hard skills of Paddling are pretty much the same at level 2 on the sea and river but the potential hazards are way different.

Ideally I would aim towards level 3 skills or if it is a sit on top you plan to get the New sit-on-top sea award should cover all you are looking for.

Hope this helps

Paddy
www.pureadventure.ie

pervertedcoffee

That is an amazing help! Thank you!

I had been trying to Google courses that would help but only ever found information on the level 2 kayaking course run by the union.

I was always going to spend some time in a store and get some information in person but I figured having half an idea of what might work and what mightn't would help the poor employee who has to help me out!

Anyway thanks again, I appreciate you sharing your expertise