#Kayaking Under Bridges - Tips For Staying Safe

By Larry S. Kang

If you live near a major port city, such as San Francisco or Seattle, odds are that you are also near a number of bridges. You may have traveled over them by car or by foot, but you might not have realized just how big they are. Kayaking, in addition to being an excellent workout and a fantastic way to spend a day outdoors, can also give you a new perspective on seemingly ordinary landmarks such as bridges. Since many impressive bridges span navigable bodies of water, a kayaking trip is a great opportunity to paddle underneath a bridge. There are many aspects of a bridge paddle that make it so interesting, but there are also some important things you should remember when planning a bridge paddle.

One thing you should be aware of is the likelihood of strong currents flowing under your bridge of choice. Many bridges are built over narrow waterways such as straits or channels. Particularly in the cases where these waterways connect a larger body of water to the ocean, tidal currents can be treacherous when the tidal exchange is significant. For example, currents under the Golden Gate Bridge can reach up to 6 knots during the most significant tidal exchanges. For comparison, the fastest you can probably paddle your kayak is about 2 or 3 knots. These exceptionally fast tidal currents result from the large amount of water that has to flow out of the bay, sound, or other connected body of water into the ocean during the course of the tidal exchange. From this example, you can see why it's important that you plan around the tides so you don't get swept away by the current.

Luckily, tides and tidal currents are very predictable, so you can check a tide chart to make sure the tidal exchanges are small when you will be out kayaking. If you pick a time when there is very little tidal flow under the bridge, you will have a much safer and more enjoyable trip. If you are comfortable with planning for tides, you may also consider planning your trip so that the tidal current flows in the direction you want to travel. For example, you might want to ride the current from your launch point to your destination, then ride the return current back to your launch point when the tidal flow switches direction.

When kayaking under bridges, you should also be aware of the flow of water through the bridge supports. In particular, smaller bridges may have spaces between their supports through which water may flow. If you get too close to one of these spaces and your boat does not fit through it, you may get stuck against the supports by the force of the water flowing through the space. The effect is much like a strong suction or vacuum. Note that it takes very little flow for your kayak to get stuck in this manner. The best way to avoid this problem is to recognize spots where it is likely to occur and stay far away from them. You should move quickly past any such danger spots, and advise others in your kayaking party to do the same.

Another thing to look out for when kayaking under bridges is the possibility of other boats in the area. Since bridges are often located near major ports, marinas, or navigable waterways, it is often likely that larger motorized boats will cross your path. As you may know already, you should never try to pass in front of them, stay aware of where they are at all times, and turn your bow so the length of your kayak is perpendicular to any large wakes caused by passing boats.

Although these are just a few of the particularities you may have to deal with when planning a bridge paddle or kayaking under bridges, the more you inform yourself, the better you will be able to avoid uncomfortable situations and stay safe in your kayak.

Read more about kayaking and kayaking safety at [http://www.basickayaking101.com] - Kayaks and Paddling for Beginners. Larry Kang is a writer on outdoor recreation topics such as hiking, kayaking, and nature photography. He is also a contributor to [http://www.basickayaking101.com]. Note: If you find this article useful, feel free to reprint it on your website, e-zine, or newsletter as long as the credits above remain intact and the hyperlinks stay active.

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#Kayak Your Way To A Better Health: 5 Benefits Of #Kayaking That You Need To Know

By Georgia Noblet

Kayaking is amongst the most popular water sports or recreational activity that can be undertaken by people from all age groups and different walks of life. This can be attributed to a number of benefits that are brought forth by this recreational activity.

In fact, if you were to ask any kayaking enthusiast, hobbyist or professional, they would all agree about how paddling through water currents in a kayak is full of advantages. For instance, it is not only immensely helpful in taking away all the worries of your day-to-day life and also offers truckloads of health benefits.

Here are five such benefits of kayaking, which will motivate you to 'test the waters' and pursue it as your hobby or even a profession. Take a look:

1. A great stress buster: There is no doubt about the fact that kayaking takes away all the stress from your mind. As and when you glide through the waters, it feels as if you are having a conversation with nature. This works no less than a therapy and helps you relax your mind and makes you calm instantly. The repetitive paddling motion gives you a sense of rhythm and works akin to meditation.

2. Mixes exercise with excursion: As you all are aware of, kayaking is a leisure activity. However, when you use kayak paddles and make your way through various water bodies, it serves no less than a physical exercise for you. This way, you end up losing oodles of weight without even making any conscious efforts in that direction. Moreover, it is a low impact activity and therefore, there is no risk of excessive wear and tear in muscles or joints. Compare this with monotonous gym exercises and you will understand why people will definitely prefer kayaking any day!

3. Enhances your stamina: Kayaking on a regular basis provides the scope to improve your stamina like never before. For this purpose, you need not go on paddling for miles at once, but opt for short sessions each day and consistently work to increase the duration one step at a time. At the same time, this activity works on improving your overall fitness as well. This takes us to the next point.

4. Tones your entire body: It is a wrong notion that kayaking is an activity that targets mainly on exercising your upper torso that is your arms, shoulders and the chest part. On the contrary, it helps you opt for a full body exercise, including your abs, thighs and bottom. This is owing to the fact that every muscle in your body is used to control and maneuver the kayak. What you need to keep in mind is to buy the perfect kayak accessories such as paddles, clothing and helmet and you will be good to go.

5. Helps in weight loss: Kayaking allows you to naturally burn hundreds of calories per hour. For instance, you can burn up to 400 calories per hour, which is a pretty good figure! The best part here is that since it is an interesting and relaxing activity (refer to the points mentioned above), you will not feel tired or strained even after spending several hours in the water. In fact, the more time you spend, the more calories you will tend to burn. Simple!

In conclusion

These are just a handful of benefits, which are brought to the forefront by kayaking. Other than these, it also offers a sea of other advantages such as improving your hand-eye co-ordination, sharpening your senses, team building (when you opt for group kayaking) among others. So, if you have never tried your hand at kayaking, it is high time you do so and avail all these benefits for your health and much more. Cheers!

Georgia Noblet works with CH Smith Marine and has extensive experience in writing on various topics such as water sports and kayak paddles, which are relevant to her firm. Being a kayaking enthusiast herself, she likes to keep herself updated on the topic and explores more about the same through her write-ups.

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#Kayaking With Crocodiles and Killer Whales

By Naomi S Wilson

One of the most popular types of water based holidays is kayaking. Many people love to take part in kayaking as something fun to do on holiday and even as the focus on their holiday. Kayaking holidays come in various ways whether it's paddling down a secluded river or traveling to different destinations along the coast. It is activity that will never bore you as there is always something new and exciting to do with a kayak. It can often be a peaceful and relaxing activity as you can enjoy the tranquil waters, although there are some extreme and exciting kayaking holidays now available that are an experience in a life time.

Sea kayaking has been around for a long time but now you can kayak beside killer whales. Johnstone Strait in British Columbia, Canada is one of the many destinations that offer killer whale kayaking. It is great if you love sea kayaking but want an added extra or if you want to witness the whales in the wild. It is an incredible experience to view the whales playing, they maybe killer whales but they are friendly. The whales live in the waters to sleep, eat and play and share their home with dolphins, sea lions, seals, eagles, black bears and many other wild animals. You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some of them. There really is nothing like paddling through the currents along side these great whales. Kayaking holidays within this environment is truly an amazing experience.

Another kayaking holiday with animals is in the jungle were you can find a rainforest adventure. Instead of whales and bears you may see crocodiles and monkeys. Travel to South America and stay in a private reserve where you can enjoy being among thousands of species you have never seen before. Staying on a private reserve means the area is well looked after, flowers and trees will be flourishing, animals will be nearby and the overall safety is very good. Kayaking holidays like these are not just about kayaking with crocodiles, there is much more on offer. Meet with the locals and get involved with harvesting or learning about the local wildlife. Fully immerse yourself in this holiday for a fulfilled experience. In both holidays there will be trained professionals to help and guide you every step of the way, take a step outside your comfort zone and enjoy the experience of your life.

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for ActivityBreaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks & Kayaking Holidays.

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CNY #Kayakers Lights on The Lake

December 6, 2015
Lights on the Lake

Read More Lights on The Lake 2015

Have You Ever Wanted to Experience #Kayaking Holidays?

By Naomi S Wilson

First of all let us begin by explaining exactly what kayaking is. Kayaking is a recreational water sport where participants use specialised boats called kayaks where you can explore a range of waterways, such as in the sea, up rivers, white water rapids, surf zones and lakes. Minimal skill is required and the activity can greatly be enjoyed by all! Obviously since there are different types of kayaking it is natural that there are a number of kayaking destinations. Europe is super for kayaking holidays and there is a great contrast between the different destinations.

If you love being active and being in the great outdoors and always love trying new things then kayaking holidays are perfect for you. A newly discovered destination which is just perfect for kayaking holidays is Croatia!

Kayaking really is wonderful in Croatia! Exploring Dubrovnik and around the Elafiti Islands with so much scenery and amazing views to take in you will have a super time. With a base on the sunny and picturesque Lopud Island known locally as the "living Island", where there is lush green scenery and a magnificent sandy beach of white limestone sand and no traffic, it really is a truly idyllic place to be based in Croatia for Kayaking. The vibrant and colourful waterfront promenade of the small island offers quirky waterfront restaurants and cafes, with ingredients being grown locally. Some of the 200 local residents even produce their own wine and olive oil. The park on the island is very well-known as a former garden of a grand villa and has a wide collection of plants collected from all around the world. The Island also offers stunning architecture, including a mix of old Greek, Roman and Slavic buildings and ruins. Lopud is fairly peaceful and quiet so if you are looking for more nightlife, Dubrovnik would offer more "life", which is only a short ferry journey away.

There are wonderful blue waters and lots of natural features including a landscape of giant rocks, high cliffs, colourful reefs, hidden caves and peaceful bays for you to explore but not just by kayak as many activities are on offer which you can take part in, including walking, cycling, rafting, canoeing, swimming and snorkelling at the close by beautiful uninhabited Island of Ruda, which has many interesting and unique sights to see!

Discover Kayaking holidays in Croatia, in this scenic coastal area known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic"

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for ActivityBreaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks & Kayaking Holidays.

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