‘Getting out amongst it’ is our philosophy, and that is exactly what we do. Weather permitting, the kayaking activity is normally available anytime the other expeditioners go out. Rather than travelling large distances, our aim is to see as much as possible. We paddle anywhere between 5 to 15 kilometres (2 to 4 hours) per outing, sometimes taking a snack and a flask of hot chocolate to enjoy on our excursion.
Each small group of kayakers (up to 10 per guide) will have their own intimate exploration of the small hidden bays and coasts that may be inaccessible to the Zodiacs and will also make time for their own shore excursions and wildlife encounters.
The elements play an important role in our sea kayaking program. It is important that you have an adventurous attitude and understand that our kayaking time will be affected by the weather that we experience.
For all of our trips, you must be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit. The level of experience differs slightly depending on the region you are visiting.
For most temperate and polar you should be an intermediate paddler. In South Georgia however, conditions can be more varied and you require solid paddling experience in ocean swell and wind.
For our tropical trips some prior paddling experience is needed. We may encounter wind on these trips, however the water is fairly protected.
You do not need to be an expert or know how to roll. However, you are required to be able to swim and you should have experience in a wet exit and assisted re-entry. You should also be proficient at putting on a spray skirt by yourself and be comfortable paddling on seas with up to half a metre swell. It is also important that you gain some practice getting into a kayak from a pier, wharf, or deep shoreline where you can’t step into the kayak from standing position. All this can easily be practiced at home before your trip. You should paddle in a variety of weather conditions to prepare for a polar kayaking trip.
Our guides do not offer instructional classes for beginners. Therefore, the kayaking option is unsuitable for complete novices. If your experience is limited, we’d encourage you to call us to discuss your suitability. There is often ample time to gain the required experience before you depart. We may be able to recommend a reputable sea kayak operator in your area for some tuition prior to the trip.
Please note: Your guide will assess your ability on the initial paddle, and if you have insufficient experience, he or she reserves the right to restrict your participation in rougher conditions.
You should be fit enough to paddle for up to three hours and climb between moving Zodiacs on the water. Regular exercise is recommended, as the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the experience. The more paddles you can do before the trip, the better – we recommend at least three outings prior to your voyage.
Polar regions
During summer the air temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula, Greenland and Spitsbergen are generally above freezing but can range from -4°C to +5°C / 24.8°F to 41°F. The water temperature in the polar regions is close to freezing and winds sweep off the glaciers, making paddling a chilling experience. In South Georgia, paddlers may encounter stronger winds and swells than in Antarctica. Scotland, Iceland, Norwegian coasts are warmer with water temperatures around 12 °C/ 53.6°F.
Temperate regions
The northern waters are warmer than the polar regions but water temperatures of around 12 °C/ 53.6°F mean you may opt to wear your paddle jacket on a warm, sunny day or our dry suits on a cool day. Surf landings are not likely, but you must be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 20 knots. We will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
Tropical regions
In Costa Rica and Panama, April is the end of the dry season, with the shoulder season beginning in May with increasing humidity. Afternoon rain showers are possible in May with temperatures ranging from 26-36 degrees C (80- 96 degrees F). Winds are generally light at this time of year. The water temperature ranges from 27 -29 degrees C. Surf landings are not likely, but be prepared to paddle in a small swell or wind chop, with winds up to 15 knots. We will not paddle if wind conditions are too strong and there is no sheltered area for paddling.
The Sea Kayaking activity is available for an additional surcharge and includes guided excursions and kayaking equipment. Fares for this activity start from $1,260.
(Prices are indicative only and are variable. They are calculated based on the days of voyage and ability to carry out the activity.)
