When I founded AWA Kayak Tours in January 2023, the world was buzzing with the trend of clear kayaks. I had already spent over a year working with a company that utilized these visually striking boats. However, after hands-on experience with sit-on-top, sit-inside, and clear kayaks, I made a definitive choice to go with sit-on-top kayaks. Here’s why:
Beginner-Friendly Design
One of the primary reasons for selecting sit-on-top kayaks is their superb stability. They are incredibly user-friendly for beginners because they are very hard to flip. This stability not only boosts confidence but also enhances safety for those new to kayaking.
Comfort and Accessibility
Comfort is key when you’re out on the water for hours. Sit-on-top kayaks offer an easier entry and exit compared to their clear counterparts. With clear kayaks, you’re essentially sitting inside a low, enclosed space which means you have to paddle with your arms at an awkward, chest-high angle unless you’re exceptionally tall. This can lead to quicker fatigue. In contrast, sit-on-top kayaks allow for a more natural paddling posture, reducing strain on your arms and shoulders.
Durability and Maintenance
Durability is another critical factor. Clear kayaks require meticulous care; they need cleaning after every tour, and you can’t wear shoes inside them to avoid scratching. Moreover, like car headlights, they tend to fog up and get easily scratched, which compromises visibility over time. Sit-on-top kayaks, however, are made from robust materials designed to handle the wear and tear of regular use with minimal maintenance.
Optimal Viewing Experience
Ironically, despite the allure of seeing through the bottom of a kayak, clear kayaks often disappoint in terms of visibility. The low seating position combined with water glare can make it challenging to spot aquatic life even in the clearest springs. On the other hand, sit-on-top kayaks provide a higher vantage point above the water. This elevated position reduces glare and enhances underwater visibility, allowing you to enjoy the underwater scenery much more effectively. As a guide, I also use a paddle board for this very reason – to spot wildlife and interesting features from above before we get too close.
Why Choose AWA Kayak Tours?
At AWA Kayak Tours, we’re committed to providing the best kayaking experience. By choosing sit-on-top kayaks, we ensure that our tours are not only about accessibility and comfort but also about maximizing the visual adventure. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced kayaker, these kayaks offer a stable, comfortable, and visually rewarding experience on the water. So come join us for a kayak adventure where you can truly connect with nature in the most enjoyable way possible.