Also known as a touring kayak, sea kayaks are specially designed for use on the ocean and the open waters of bays and lakes. The sea kayaks are more versatile than the regular kayaks, allowing the kayak enthusiast to paddle in anything from a small body of water to the more challenging deep sea excursions. They are designed for comfort on long journeys and provide the ease of straight line paddling.
Preliminary considerations
The purpose for which you will be using your kayak and how you will be using it, are important considerations. If you mainly want a sea kayak for fishing then you will need to select one specially designed for that purpose. If you are only using it occasionally, then you would have to consider if you want to invest too much in an equipment that will sit around for most of the time. Other considerations are, the number of people using it, their size, storage for the kayak and how you will be transporting it. Cost, of course, is always a factor. You can get a basic start up kayak kit from about $500.00, but be sure to shop around and compare.
Size and Construction
You can purchase a sea kayak anywhere from 12 to 24 feet in length and width ranges are between 18 and 32 inches. If you plan to kayak with a partner, or you above average in stature, the longer and wider kayaks provide more capacity and comfort. Longer and wider kayaks also make paddling in a straight line much easier, and depending on the length of your planned trips, the width of the kayak is equally as important since it comes with more storage capacity.
Sea kayaks are constructed from a variety of materials including epoxy, plywood, carbon-kevlar and carbon fiber. It is important to note that when choosing a sea worthy kayak, that the material should not be too flexible or too stiff. If it is too stiff, it breaks easier and if it is too flexible it may not break that easily but you give up efficiency.
Basic Features
While features of a sea kayak vary depending on the type and use of the kayak, there are some general features. Your kayak will have a bow in the front and a stern in the back. A cockpit sits in the middle with its seat facing the stern. You will find holes, known as "scuppers" inside the cockpit that allows the kayak to drain. You are able to attach various accessories to the kayak by way of several "U" cleats or "strap eyes" found on the side of the cockpit.
Types of Sea kayaks
The various types of sea kayaks include sit-on-top, surf and sea fishing kayaks. The sit-on-top version of the sea kayak allows the rider to enter and exit the cockpit effortlessly, whether entering from the water or shore. It also offers a sense of freedom; the rider does not have to feel trapped in the kayak, but can paddle with ease and enjoy the experience. You can take you pick of the solo version or the tandem, in a variety of sizes and shapes.
The surf ski kayaks are usually about 18 feet in length with an 18 inch beam. They have a sleek, long appearance, some of which come with a rudder. These types of kayaks were formerly used by lifeguards to get to swimmers in trouble quickly. As such, they are built to travel at incredible speeds.
If you are an avid fisherman and kayak enthusiast, you may want to consider the fishing kayaks. Traditionally, the sea kayak has been used for this purpose, however, the contemporary ones come well equipped for the sport of deep sea fishing. Technological advances have resulted in more ergonomic and stable kayaks and come with many accessories like rod holders, electronic fish finders, and hatches that makes for a more enjoyable fishing experience
Sea kayaks offer the paddler lots of thrills and versatility whether used for touring in open waters or in a small lake. To maximize your enjoyment of the sea kayak, it is important that you do your own research into the different types of kayaks and their features. Most important, try before you buy, to ensure comfort and stability and fun.