Kayaking requires a lot of planning and dedication for a stress-free time. The more thought you put into the activity beforehand, the easier your time on the water will be.
Wind direction & speed are important factors that determine how smooth your kayaking experience will be. Any discrepancies, and you’ll be struggling to paddle or find yourself paranoid about tipping over. This is true whether you plan on kayaking in a lake, river, or the open ocean. Here’s how different factors are tested.
Wind Forecast
It goes without saying that the best time to kayak is when there is little to no wind. And if you’re unsure about how to measure it, just switch on weather forecast broadcasting to figure it out!
Wind speeds under five miles per hour are ideal for areas with a high amount of wind. Decreasing wind rates makes for easier paddling, and you’ll have more control over your kayak. You should check the forecast for the duration in which you hope to kayak, and also add a few hours toward the end to cover any delays. If the wind forecast is stable for the duration, then kayaking won’t be a challenge.
Wind Direction
Understanding the direction the wind blows in is essential for your kayaking trip. The last thing you want to do is paddle against the wind’s direction, since you will be required to paddle harder, which will tire you out much faster.
The best way to tackle this is to have different paddling locations which are ideal for different wind directions. This way, you have multiple options if the wind direction changes. Planning your kayaking route keeping the wind direction in mind can lead to a less strenuous trip, and you can enjoy your activity for longer!
Temperature
Although temperature can boil down to an individual’s comfort level, there are some golden rules to follow which can make kayaking easier on you and your group.
Usually, water temperatures above 70 degrees are considered optimal, and make for a more enjoyable kayaking trip. The best way to navigate what to wear on your kayaking trip is to understand that what may be considered ‘warm’ on land may turn into a cold sea breeze when kayaking. However, comfort and safety should definitely be a top priority.
If it’s your first time kayaking, doing it under professional supervision will ensure a more enjoyable trip. You won’t have to worry about all the weather factors, since the guides will be doing the preparation for you. Book your Cocoa Beach kayak tour with us at Adventure Kayak, and rest easy knowing you’re under expert care. Contact us today for more information.
