How much experience do I need before heading out on my own?

oak5548

Hi all. I've never kayaked beyond adventure centre stuff before and that was years ago.

I've always wanted to get into it and I'm thinking about taking a 2 day "learn to kayak" course after I saw it here http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2057155146

The thing is, I would love to be able to learn the basics, then go out and have a bit of craic and learn the more advanced stuff on my own, because its pretty expensive for me to join a club. I'm unemployed and dont have much to spend.

Would I be a bit crazy to learn the basics then buy a beginners boat and buoyancy aid etc and then just head out for a spin down the river nore every weekend?

Would I have to take a course to try sea kayaking in a bay on a relatively calm day?
I understand the dangers of water, rapids, tides, riptides etc and dont know if this would be safe enough.

What do you think I should do?

MugMugs

Whilst a lot of us are experienced and have probably all done it at one stage or another in our time, the golden rule is "less than three there should never be"

ec18

Like Mugs said most experienced paddlers have paddled on their own.

But there is a big difference in terms of being able to recognise hazards that you simply won't have after a two day learn to kayak course. Especially if you are talking about going from a flat water controlled environment to a moving water river.

The ad that linked to includes membership of that club for the year so it might be best to see what their set up is. It could save you a few bucks in buying gear and you'll be able to use better gear, get tips from experienced members and most importantly be much safer learning the basics of river kayaking than on your own.

oak5548

ec18 wrote: »

Like Mugs said most experienced paddlers have paddled on their own.

But there is a big difference in terms of being able to recognise hazards that you simply won't have after a two day learn to kayak course. Especially if you are talking about going from a flat water controlled environment to a moving water river.

The ad that linked to includes membership of that club for the year so it might be best to see what their set up is. It could save you a few bucks in buying gear and you'll be able to use better gear, get tips from experienced members and most importantly be much safer learning the basics of river kayaking than on your own.

Oh wow I didnt even notice that! Thanks, definitely going to sign up now I think!

fundi

more fun with at least one other paddler too. think safety first.

adrianshanahan

I just seen this thread now, I'm the one running the course you linked to.

Lets start with the official line, you should never kayak alone.

As someone else stated the course includes club membership for the remainder of 2014 running into 2015, there are lots of club activities available to members after completion of the course.

A two day introduction to paddling course regardless of who runs it will never bring a person who has never kayaked to a standard where they would be considered experienced enough to paddle solo.

Subsequent members ship is €50 per year and includes membership of Canoe Ireland, and access to club kit and in house courses.

If you have any questions let me know.