Do you have some hesitation abut going kayaking? Wondering if it’s a suitable activity for you and your family or paddling group?
Read on to get answers to some of our FAQ’s about kayaking suitability!
1. Age Restrictions
Q. Is My Child Too Young To Kayak?
A. As Long as your child can sit in the front of a kayak, independantly hold a kayak paddle, and fit into a life jacket, then they are fine to come along! They may not be the most helpful paddle partner and the Adult in the back might have to put in some more effort but that’s all part of the fun!
The most Kid friendly option is our interactive nature discovery Glass Bottom Kayak Tour.
Q. Is there a Maximum Age Limit For Kayaking?
A. At Region X, we reckon age is just a number! As long as you feel you’re capable of spending time on the water and paddling in a double kayak then we’re happy to have you, regardless of Age!
In fact we designed a program specifically to get seniors out on the water! Check out our over 50’s kayak skills program “Young at Heart”
Check out our range of coastal kayaking tours here.
2. Swimming Ability
Q. I can’t swim, can I participate?
A. Yes! We provide Life jackets on all tours and provide a comprehensive safety guide and paddle lesson with each tour.
Please advise your guide if you are a non swimmer so they can assist you to feel comfortable and safe.
Q. Can I do the snorkel tour if I’m a non swimmer tour?
A. Yes! We provide lifejackets, wetsuits and other flotation devices for non swimmers. Please advise your guide beforehand so they can adjust the itinerary according to ability.
3. Medical Concerns
Q. I have an injury or medical condition. Can I participate?
A. You should first consult your doctor for advice on this matter. If they clear you for kayaking, consider whether you are comfortable and physically able to sit upright in a kayak and assist with paddling (maybe not with a broken arm!).
If you have a medical issue, make it known on your waiver, inform your guide beforehand and bring any neccesary medical equipment with you.
If you’re unsure, call us! 1300 001 060.
4. Size and Weight Limits
Q. Do the Kayaks Have a size and Weight Limit?
A. Our first priority is customer and guide safety. All customers need to be able to fit comfortably into our safety gear, fit within the safe equipment use weight range and be able to be retrieved from the water in a rescue scenario.
In order to participate you need to be able to:
- Fit into all safety gear and kayak equipment
- Comfortably sit upright and paddle in the kayak cockpit with your legs stretched out in front of your for at least 1.5 hrs.
- Balance independently while sitting in the kayak on flat water and be able to paddle.
TIP: If you’re not sure if you can do this, practice the action by sitting on the floor with your legs outstretched using a stick or broom as a pretend paddle
If you fit these requirements then we are good to go!
5. Disability and Access
Q. Are the Kayak Tours Accessible?
A. There are some potential challenges with kayak accessibility including unstable craft and access points via soft sand beaches.
Depending on your needs and equipment, it may be difficult to access certain activities but we will do everything we can to make it possible.
We think the outdoors should be for everyone, so if you’re keen to kayak and have accessibility concerns, please call us in advance!
We can talk through your requirements and see if we can come up with a way to get you get out on the water such as organising a private tour.
PH: 1300 001 060
6. Kayaking Experience
Q. I’ve never kayaked before, are the tours suitable?
A. Yes! We have beginner friendly tours for all ages. All tours include a comprehensive paddling lesson and safety briefing.
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