Category: Technology

Kayaking Versus Canoeing – Spot the Difference 

Kayaking involves using a Kayak which is a narrow boat propelled by a double-bladed paddle to move across the water. Canoes and kayaks have some similarities in size and shape; however, a canoe uses a single-blade paddle, unlike the kayaks. A kayak is the equivalent of a sports car as it is versatile with a covered deck, while a canoe, on the other hand, has an open deck.

You can tell kayaking and canoeing apart based on a few factors.

People using kayaks face the front with their legs stretched, while those on the canoe will sit or kneel in the canoe. They will then wedge their knee on the rim for stability.

Kayaking is mainly a sport, but canoeing may be used for sports and by families or friends for leisure movement on the water. In some areas, canoes are a means of transport from a water body such as a river to land. Both kayaking and canoeing are available as sports in various leagues, for example, in Olympics.

 Kayaking uses a double blade since they are faster, and the kayakers want maximum speed. They need top speed because they are kayaking for practice or are in a competition. Canoers use a single-blade paddle as they do not require high speed.

Canoeing is much more complex than kayaking because of the canoe’s build. Canoes are heavier, and the paddle is less versatile, making it harder to make turns. Kayaking is much easier because the double blade paddle increases their speed, making it easier to navigate rivers and their changing features, such as rapids and fast-moving water.

 Though kayaks are faster and easy to maneuver, they flip more easily than canoes. Canoes are broader, making them more stable than kayaks and reducing their chances of instability. It is important to keep in mind the kayak’s instability when you decide to go for either.

 Various factors can help you determine if kayaking is better than canoeing.

 People have been canoeing for ages with little to no training, leading people to imagine it is easy to go out without any training. But in the real sense, both kayaking and canoeing call for thorough training before embarking on either. While kayaking is easier for beginners, it is imperative to master how to maneuver challenging situations.

 While choosing between Kayaking and Canoeing, you should consider the type of waterway. You are bound to get wet in both vessels in rough water, but you will be drier in a kayak than in a canoe in calm water. Kayaks have a closed cockpit that keeps the water away; however, it is always advisable to carry a bilge pump.

 Depending on the purpose of your trip, you can decide to use either a kayak or canoe (https://www.muchbetteradventures.com/magazine/canoe-vs-kayak-whats-the-difference/). For example, if going on a camping trip with friends or family, you might consider canoeing. The decision to use a canoe is dependent on the fact that it has a bigger space which you can use to carry supplies you may need for the trip.

 What should you do if your kayak or canoe flips?

 If your vessel flips, you shouldn’t panic, as you can easily overturn it. Once you flip it back, you need to ensure that there is no water inside it. If you don’t know how to swim, you can stand on top of the flipped vessel to gather your thoughts on how you can attempt to raise it back.

 The task you wish to perform will determine the decision to use either a kayak or a Canoe. Both do well in water sports. If you will be in rough waters, a kayak is ideal because it is easy to navigate, while for calm water, a canoe would come in handy.

WHAT IS A CHARTER BOAT?

For homeowners and visitors who don’t want to maintain their boats, charter boats are available. A charter boat is a vessel that can be chartered for various purposes. Bareboat or bareboat charters consist of only the boat, with the customers providing their crew and supplies, as opposed to full-service charters, which include the use of the boat along with personnel and consumables like groceries.

Full-service charters can be used for activities like a region’s dive excursions, fishing excursions, or boat tours. Visitors frequently like spending a few days at sea, especially in tropical climates, to benefit from the cool breezes and get a chance to explore the country from a different perspective. These excursions may also offer an opportunity to explore numerous islands that might not usually be visible and stop for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

When to Charter a Boat, When to Rent a Boat

Generally speaking, determining whether to charter or rent a boat relies on your itinerary, level of comfort and relaxation preferences, and length of the trip. Bareboat charter can be the best choice if you’re looking for adventure and have the skills to captain and run the boat. Chartering a yacht can be a lot of fun if you intend to go on a genuine sailing expedition for at least a week or more. It’s almost like taking a cruise because you can go wherever you want, establish your schedule, and never wait in line!

Renting a boat is preferable if you only intend to go on a short trip or excursion and spend a few hours to a few days on it.

What’s the difference between renting a boat or yacht vs. chartering one?

What is the difference between renting and chartering a boat? If you’ve lately thought about renting a boat, you’ve probably seen a variety of offers for boat rental firms and charter companies. To help you decide which is the best choice for you and your needs, let’s examine the main distinctions between chartering and renting a boat.

Renting versus chartering

Although the terms chartering and renting are frequently used interchangeably in the market today, several critical distinctions between the two activities make them two entirely different experiences.

Chartering

Chartering provides an experience, whereas renting a boat only provides the boat. When you lease a boat or yacht, you usually rent it for at least one day. However, charters frequently go longer, from three days to a week or even longer, for special occasions. Yachts and other big vessels that can be chartered are often utilized for longer trips, including overnight trips.

Boat charter companies may provide a wide variety of experiences. With thousands of options, a boat charter can range from just the boat rental to having a captain, crew, and personal chef on board. You can get supplies and drinks on certain chartered boats, but others need help.

Renting

When you hire a boat or yacht, you are doing so for a considerably shorter period. Usually, boats are rented out by the hour or, at most, per day. Smaller boats, such as motorboats and powerboats, typically rented, are meant to be used only for a short period.

You must also carry your supplies, including crew, if necessary when renting a boat. You will need to bring your drinks, food, fishing gear, and other necessities for activities on the water.

So, when you rent a boat, you receive the boat. You must bring everything (and everyone) else.

Which option is the best for you?

A boat rental may be ideal if you only want to go fishing or snorkeling for an afternoon or, at most, a day, especially if you have prior sailing experience. A charter can be your best option if you want to spend more time on the water, don’t have as much experience, or want a crew to go with you.

Whatever you decide, be careful and enjoy yourself!

Boat Technology – Essential Tech for the Fishing Boat or Yacht Captain

Fishing and Sailing is one of the most exhilarating pastimes you can have, and technologies can give us knick-knacks to make life aboard-ship safer, fun, and more accessible. Humans have set sail for both business and pleasure for millennia, whether messing about on the river or hitting the high seas in competition. Here are some Essential Tech for the Fishing Boat or Yacht Captain

Inflatable solar lights

Mpowered’s inflatable lights are an elegant solution since deck lighting can be costly. A ring of bright LEDs precisely lights around the area and shines up into a disturbing and clear inflatable “bulb. These solar lights are waterproof, including solar recharge, so you never have to buy batteries. This is a lightweight, simple solution that’s a doddle to use. 

Floating VHF/GPS

With the Floating VHF/GPS, you have a built-in GPS and basic nautical abilities waypoint six-watt handheld VHF radio and functions for route navigation. Having a backup communications device aboard is always a good idea. You never know what could happen while you’re sailing.

A Fishfinder

Why do you need a fishfinder? Fishfinders transmit a sonar signal into the water, letting you know how populated the area is, how likely you are to make a catch, and where to cast. Regardless of the phone signal, it will work wherever you are because the device generates its wifi field. 

Fishing is a large part of the appeal of Sailing and boating for many. For some, the boat is just a way to get closer to the fish! It’s suitable in both salt and fresh water and has modes for fishing, including ice fishing. 

Third Reef Foul Weather Gear

You might never know the weather, so it’s always better to be prepared. With these wind-resistant and waterproof Third Reef bibs to pair with the jackets, which are 100-percent polyester, it is perfect for you!

Boaters need to be prepared for flying spray or sudden rain, and there’s no better way to outfit your boat than with this weather gear. 

Sailing Watch

A decent and competitive watch is essential when you’re out fishing. You don’t want a fancy timepiece out onto the water or take your SmartWatch. One of the most popular watches is the Optimum Time 2018 series. Both of these watches have a clear, bright display to get the information you need at a glance, not to mention that they are shock and waterproof. An extra strap is included that allows you to wear the watch outside of your waterproof.

A Solar Charger

There are various solar generators and chargers on the market, from portable smartphone chargers to huge solar sails. A cheaper and more environmentally sound solution to using a generator, helping to keep fuel costs low (https://www.forbes.com/wheels/accessories/best-portable-solar-chargers/). 

BlackTip Seven Piece Angler Fishing Kit

This kit contains all the fishing tools you need in a zippered storage case. Open it up, and you’ll find a fillet knife, a de-hooker, marine shears, a bait knife, a tape measure, and fishing pliers with line blades. What you’ll get with the BlackTip Seven Piece Angler Fishing Kit is what you need as an  Avid angler. A reliable tool is waiting for you inside the kit.

Portable Fuel Tank

When you need to carry fuel to the boat, Having a portable fuel tank makes that task much more manageable. It’s uniquely designed for easy and stable storage, even in tight places. Of course, it’s EPA/CARB compliant. 

Overboard Rescue System

Unlike regular throwables, this Lifesling2 can be towed to a crew member. It is more than just a floatation device with 21-pounds of buoyancy. The lifesling can even be used to hoist a member aboard; it’s a true Overboard Rescue System consisting of a horseshoe buoy/rescue sling with 125′ of polypropylene line.

Super Gard Fenders

Having fenders aboard is a must (also, be sure to read Docking a Boat: Step-by-Step Guide for pro tips for stress-free docking). These Super Gard Fenders are essential to your sailing/fishing activity. Whether you plan to protect that gleaming gel coat when you visit the fuel dock, tie up at a waterfront restaurant, or raft up with some friends. You really shouldn’t miss it out. Add it to your fishing kit now.