A Guide to Safe Night Kayaking
There is nothing more romantic than taking a kayak while it is still dark, and you expect the sun to rise in the middle of a sea. Again, many times the sound of water, the cool air at night, the stars and moon make everything perfect. Nevertheless, going out at night when there is no sunlight makes it necessary for you to take important measures to protect your life and others.
Another important, but frequently neglected factor of night kayaking is the apparatus of lighting. These are important reasons why kayak lights can never be considered optional and ways in which you can get the most out of them.
Why You Need Kayak Lights
Driving in the dark without enough light remains extremely dangerous. Kayak lights are useful in spotting other features in the water, finding your bearings and, in this case, ensuring that other boaters can spot you. Just as important, having lights means you’re not the only one blindly lunging through the water- even in regions that are not widely traveled by boats. They are not only tools of comfort, they are essentially safety instruments that can be of great use.
Apart from serving the obvious function, kayak lights also add to the general thrill. At night they can light up your environment and help you see animals or even explore underwater views, which makes your tour exciting.
The various varieties of kayak light
However, knowing your options of light when selecting those to fit your kayak is very important.
Here are the main types:
- Navigation Lights: These assist other users on water to identify you as well as your direction of movement. It’s a boat name or number with a red background for port side and green for starboard side.
- 360-Degree Lights: These are mandatory by many local regulations and mounted above the kayak and can also be seen around the kayak. They’re useful for making sure you can always be spotted or everyone’s heading in the same direction or something.
- Deck Lights: Placed right at the kayak they light up the hull or the cockpit which makes it easier to manage your gear at night.
While purchasing kayak lights, keeping high quality in mind not only makes you safe at night but also guarantees several usages.
Kayak Lights Tips & Strategies
- Mount Strategically: Make sure your lights are properly mounted and hang low enough so you are not distracted or hindered while swimming.
- Choose Waterproof Options: Since the type of activity will require use in underwater conditions then your lights should be submersible.
- Test Before You Paddle: With kayak lights, it means you must ensure that the gadgets are in good condition before use. Make sure they’re rechargeable or have new batteries – and that they’re charged.
- Don’t Forget Backup: Always have a back up light or a headlamp in case of a blackout. A night kayak trip can turn into a dangerous one if the only source of light you have, goes off suddenly.
Conclusion
Night paddling is a fun way of expanding the whole kayaking experience. Despite all of the above factors, if well equipped particularly with efficient kayak lights, one can be able to savor the unique and calming nature of the waters. Envision of having smooth water before you, your lights guiding you through the water as little fishes swim below you and the full moon luminescent above.
Night time kayaking is as much about safety as it is about the experience. Night lighting not only provides a sense of security, but it goes to the point of increasing the challenge. Therefore the next time you schedule your night cruise ensure that your kayak lights are well prepared to lead you through. Stroke your paddle, have fun, be safe and let your light be the memory maker.
