How to Get Back on Sit on Top Kayak

Kayak is an excellent outdoor sport for people who love adventures. There are several varieties of kayaks depending on purpose, design, and seating position.

A sit-on-top kayak is a traditional variety with more flexibility. These kayaks are designed with more stability. 

But, a kayak can drown in undesirable conditions. You can get back on a sit-on-top kayak and start again. You have to follow some steps to do it easily. 

This writing will explain “How to Get Back on Sit on Top Kayak”. Besides, it will guide you to help someone get back on the kayak. 

Do Sit-on-Top Kayaks Tip Over Easily?

Beach Sunrise with Kayaks
Beach Sunrise with Kayaks | Credit: THP Creative / Canva.com

No, kayaks are safe and designed with stability on the water. Kayaks don’t tip over without any reason. It is very rare. When it comes to sit-on-top kayaks it is safer because of their wide brim. 

It might drown due to overweight, high waves, and string current. Besides, a sit-on-top kayak doesn’t have a thigh brace. You have to paddle it carefully in undesirable conditions. Your paddling skills should be gentle and efficient.

If you are willing to paddle a kayak on extreme water, you can use additional gear and gadgets to keep yourself safe. 

How to Get Back on Sit on Top Kayak

It is easy to get back into a sit-on-top kayak from the water. These kayaks do not swamp because they have scupper holes. The task requires a combination of technique, skills, and muscle power. 

The most important thing is to return the kayak to its original state. You can do it by using a body part of the boat that is more stable and convenient to handle.

a woman is kayaking
A woman is kayaking | Credit: bluecinema / Canva.com

Now, it is time to use your legs and arms to get back on to the kayak. You have to give a powerful kick and push your arms to haul the boat. 

Here is a step-by-step guide with more detail. 

Step 1: Flip Kayak Upright

The man is trying to flip kayak
The man is trying to flip kayak | Credit: Salt Strong / YouTube.com

You have to return or set the right position of the kayak. It completely depends on your kayaking skills and body power. 

First, try to fix your position so that you can face the kayak. It will make the job easier and give you more strength to grab the hull.

Next, reach down and grasp the edge of the cockpit to pull it forcefully. You see that the kayak is in the right position. If not, try it again from another side. 

If the kayak is too heavy, you can use the roll method to return it to the right position. Grab the handle under the hull and use one hand to push the kayak upward.

Step 2: Secure Your Paddle to The Kayak

The man is securing paddle to the kayak
The man is securing paddle to the kayak | Credit: Salt Strong / YouTube.com

Getting back onto your Sit on Top kayak can be tricky when you are alone. You can secure your ways in different ways. The most effective one is to use a leash. 

First, attach one end of the leash to your paddle and the other end to your kayak.

Make sure the paddle is symmetrical so that you can get the stability of the paddling.

Next, ensure that the paddle clips are secured. Paddle clips are used to attach your paddle to your kayak.

Now, place your paddle across the stern of the kayak. Your paddle is ready for paddling. 

However, this step will secure you getting back the paddle of the kayak and moving forward from the place. Let’s see the next step.

Pelican Boats | Adjustable Kayak Paddle Leash Bungee Cord |

Step 3: Stabilize The Kayak and Position Your Body

The stability of the kayak will enable you to survive on the water. A flip over a kayak might cause some difficulties in getting back to the right position. 

You have to endure the stability and return to the kayak position.

First, push at the center of the kayak and stop it. You can do it easily by hand. If you are using a heavy-weighted kayak, you will need to grab both sides of the kayak to make it stable.

Now, get into the kayak and sit in your position. Make sure the seating position is right, and that you are stable enough. Move carefully and fix the seating issues for the final position.

the man is back on the kayak
The man is back on the kayak | Credit: Salt Strong / YouTube.com

Step 4: Get Back In Your Seat

First, try to enter on the kayak from the side. Make sure your weight is on the center of the kayak. 

Once you are centered, grab the edge with both hands. Use your hands to pull yourself up. Try it until you are seated in the right position.

You have to ensure that your legs are tucked in close to your body. If possible use your feet to push off the water and give it a little extra push. 

Once you are seated on the kayak, position the paddle and begin paddling. 

How to Help Someone to Get Back on Sit on Top Kayak

Helping someone in a dangerous situation can reduce the risk. You can help someone to get back on a sit-on-top kayak. 

First, stabilize the kayak and make it suitable for the paddler. Next, position the kayak parallel to other kayaks. Make sure there is enough grip on it. 

Finally, hold the kayak and help the paddler sit in the right position. 

If they are unable to paddle, you can attach the kayak with yours and move forward.

FAQs

How to get into a sit-on-top kayak from a dock

Reach and grab the paddle carefully. Then, gently move forward from the dock and sit in the position.

How do you get back into a sit on top kayak from the water?

Set your belly button in the middle of the kayak and push your arms to get back on a sit-on-top kayak.

How do you get back into a kayak by yourself?

You have to use your skills, and body power to get back into a kayak by yourself. You can follow the steps discussed above. 

How does a fat person get in a kayak?

A fat person should stabilize the kayak first. Then sit on the edge of the kayak and move gently to the seating position. 

Conclusion

Finally, it can be said that getting back on a sit-on-top kayak is not difficult. It requires a combination of skills, experience, and muscle power. 

Besides, you can get help from someone else to get back into a kayak. It will make the task easier and more secure. 

The steps discussed in this article will help you to understand your duties in a dangerous situation.