Re-entry for sit-on-top yaks: 2

[Hughman]

I tried practising the recommended method of pulling myself across midships. However I found that this was unsuccessful for me.
Whenever I reached across to the far side to attempt to pull myself, belly down, into the cockpit I normally only succeeded in tipping the yak over on top of me.

I found that it was much more successful -- and much easier -- to pull myself, belly down, across the bow. I did not have to rach far and the kak did not tip at all. Therafter I could slide into the cockpit and turn over.

This is, admitedly, a more undignified way of re-entry. However, in an emergency situation I would not think twice.

I would use this method because I know that it is easy and it works -- whereas I have found the recommended method difficult and unrealiable.

Cheers

P.S. I have a Hobie Revolution. The recommended technique might work better with some different yaks, of course.

[ArWeTherYet]

Hughman good effoprt on practicing your reentry.

Did you kick?
Reentry is done with with a combination of dragging yourself in and vigorously kicking at the same time. It should be done with one continuous movement of reaching over, kicking at the same time, dragging your belly in then your bum, twisting around and planting yourself on the seat. I have a narrow kayak so I do my re entry diagonally and grab the nearest side with one hand then while kicking reach over and grab the other side with the other hand and pull and kick myself on board (surf board style).

You should also be able to do as you said and get on board the bow as well as the stern......this is the time you wish you didnt have so much crap on top of your deck.

[Hughman]

Yes, tried kicking simultaneously but the technique did not work for the combination of my physique and my yak.

I know: I watched the Hobie CD beforehand which illustrates the recommended method.

Yes, I found that the rod holders on either side of the forward part of the cockpit meant that I had to slide on my belly between them into the cockpit. As I said, not elegant, but at least I know I can rely upon it.

Cheers

[Barrabundy]

Mate, doesn't matter how you do it, the aim is to get yourself back in and you have obviously worked out a way that works for you....stick to it. Too many people know all the theory and think they've got it all sorted but when it comes to put it into practise they're lost if it doesn't all go to plan. Good to see you've tried it in a controlled way and worked something that's practical and works for you. If you should ever need to do it you'll know exactly what to do rather than tru the theory and possibly end up panicing when it doesn't work.

[lionfish]

Great suggestions for technique above. Re-entry is such a critical topic.

I can't believe how silly I was to do so many trips without trying a re-entry with full gear.

I was actually amazed how hard it was! It takes a few goes to master the kick 'n drag method. There was rod holders in the way, gear in the cockpit etc.

I would suggest any beginners - like me - ensure they've had a fair go at getting back on board. You may find it is a lot harder than you think...

[diabolical]

The first idea to come to mind after thinking about this was a "stirrup". Some guys carry a tail rope for larger fish and this would double as a stirrup when needed. A kayak is not exactly a bucking horse but I think it's worth a try.

[seabear]

G'day Hughman
For many years I spent most of my time on the water in sit in kayaks and was taught at a few clubs I had been a member of, the
recommended method that seems to be the same principle for both types of kayaks.
The best position for a persons body once they have their hands on each side of the yak is to be as flat as possible to the surface,with legs fully extended on the surface as if your using a kick board.
If your legs are too far down in the water you'll find that even though you kick you'll still have a tendancy to rotate the craft over.
Spread your legs apart about the same amount as if you are swimming and kick strongly while trying to slide the yak under your chest.At this point you can attempt at sliding just a little further to your belly.
This is the point at which most have trouble with.The turning of your upper body toward the stern so as to position your hip in the seat area before attempting to roll the body over keeping as low to the interior as possible.
A sit in kayak is a very tippy vessel at this point compared to a sit on.By staying as low as possible untill you've positioned yourself over your seat will insure better success.
Hope I've been able to help a little.Best to have a practice day as I did at my canoe and kayak club.
Cheers Tez