Kayak NOLA
This February I took a 4 day trip to Louisiana for a kayaking adventure. This was a first for me. While I’ve been canoeing, the kayak was a new game. I signed up with a friend for the trip through The Kayak Girls (TKG) an all-woman outdoor adventure group. This worked perfectly for my skill level. I wasn’t sure where to begin with a trip like this and the wonderful women at TKG did it all for me. The best part? Being a newbie was no big deal. No one micromanaged me or abandoned me. They helped me when I asked and for the most part, just let me figure it out at my own pace. Thank you Kayak Girls!
We did 4 different paddles, in 4 days. Two bayous and 2 swamps. Wondering what the difference is between a swamp and a bayou? Look here, http://www.americaswetlandresources.com/background_facts/glossary/index.html. Our first paddle was a twilight paddle through Cane Bayou all the way out to Lake Pontchartrain. If you ever have the opportunity for an evening paddle do it! Slowly watching and listening to the bayou come to life with the evening creatures was incredible. Day 2 was an urban paddle through Bayou St. John. Seeing the city from the natural waterways that the city was built around was terrific, and a perfect contrast to the wildlife refuge we were the evening before. Day 3 put us out at Honey Island Swamp. The cypress trees and houseboats along this journey were an experience and something I will treasure for a long time. Our last paddle of the trip was through Manchac Swamp. This swamp had been logged for years and taking the long journey into the remote waterways of this area gave us the opportunity to see the swamp in it’s most natural state, untouched by industrialization.
I would absolutely take another kayaking journey. The kayak took me into places where hiking and biking could never take you. Depending on the waterway environment you can explore places not easily accessible and therefore relatively untouched by people. Not to mention the peaceful meditative quality of the water is beyond compare. The ability to unplug and disconnect, floating peacefully miles away from civilization is wonderful.
Why it works
Whether you arrange your paddles independently (owning or renting a kayak) or through a tour group it’s a terrific adventure filled with new sights and sounds. Rental kayaks can begin from as low as $15 a day in some places and frequently shuttling will be included in the itinerary. Recreational Kayaks are generally considered more stable than a canoe, so it’s not a difficult skill for a beginner to explore.
Reserving space on a kayaking tour when on a vacation in a can be a terrific way to learn about the area and sight see. Tours for several hours are often a moderate price and tour guides can be very helpful for beginners.
Who’s going to love it
Anyone looking for a new adventure. As I mentioned, I was new to this type of sport and it was relatively easy to pick up. I saw many people of all types in kayaks. Some who were very athletic and others who don’t get to the gym as often. Everyone was having a great time and the buoyancy of the boat seemed to be an equalizing ingredient. I had major concerns about the kayaks being tippy for a beginner, but it was much more easy going than I had anticipated.
Things to consider
I’m not a strong swimmer, so I had my life vest on but I always felt safe and comfortable. If you are enjoying the afternoon with someone dealing with a serious fear of water, an activity on land may be a better idea.
This could be a great activity for kids over the age of 8 depending on the type of water. Under 8, depending on size and the skill level of the adult, a child could fit on a ‘sit on top’ kayak with an adult. Additionally, tandem kayaks are a good option of beginners and kids.
Water type and weather is key. Paddling around a calm lake, bayou or swamp is relaxing and pleasant. Once you start to fight a strong river current or high winds, it’s a much different story. Even the downpour we were in was not a big deal because we had the bridge for shelter and the winds were mild. Remember, lighting is always a stopper.
Equipment: waterproof is key but, storage in bags that float is essential. My phone is waterproof but, if it sinks to the bottom of the river, that’s not going to help me much.
