The kayaking routes and timings recommended by us are decided to provide the best kayaking experience to you..
The kayaking experience depends on…
- The route of kayaking
- The timing
- The quality of the kayaks
- Attitude of the guide to the guests and ability to communicate
- The facilities and cleanliness at the Kayaking site
- Thoughtful and timely refreshments
All these have a direct impact on your kayaking experience at Kadamakkudy Islands.
Why is the route of kayaking important?
- The first and foremost factor is the route of kayaking. It must be safe. There is no route which is completely safe and at the same time a faily safe route along with a guide who is familiar with the route can make your kayaking experience very safe. Generally Kayaking routes comprises of a mix of mangrove forests and open waters. Please ensure that the route is safe and the guide has sufficient knowledge about the route and rescue if required.
- For early morning kayaking, sunlight is not a problem and at the same time, if you choose kayaking in open waters between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm, you will be exposed to the heat of the sun, and will get draned of your energy very easily. If you are choosing kayaking after 8.30 am, then choose routes with good shade.
Why is the timing of kayaking important?
- As already pointed out, kayaking in scorching heat is no fun. Choose either early morning or evening kayaking
- High tide and low tide have a major impact on the kayaking experience. If the tide is very high, you may miss out on the birds in the kayaking route. Birds are mostly seen during the low tide timings. At the same time, is the tide is too low, then the kayaks can get struck in mud, if you are kayaking in shallow waters. Check the timing of the tides, before choosing the kayaking time. A mid tide time is advisable.
The quaity of Kayaks
- Since it is kayaking for leisure, the brand names does not matter much and at the same time, if the surface of the kayak is uneven due to wear and tear, that will generate lot of friction, and you will end up spending more energy than required, resulting in exhaustion.
- Also ensure that there is no water leaked into the kayak
The attitude of the guide to the guests & communication
- If you happen to choose a tough guide with rude attitude towards the guests, its all gone
- Ensure that your guide is able to communicate with you in a language both of you can understand
- Make it a point to talk to the guide before choosing your kayaking service
- Ensure that the same person is your guide, while kayaking
The facilities and cleanliness
- What are the facilities provided at the starting point of the kayaking tour
- Do they have a wash room / changing room?
- Do they have dining space?
- Is there sufficient space to park vehicles?
- Is there a safe space to keep valuables
Thoughtful and timely refreshments
- In every sport, it is important to keep hydrated continuously
- Check the quality of refreshments and the timing of these refreshments
- What about drinking water?
Kayaking experience is at it’s best during sunrise and sunset times, especially when the routes are through the narrow lanes covering mangroves, pokkali paddy fields etc. Since these routes are also habitats of birds and fish, please ensure that you are going in small groups not exceeding 10 without making too much noise. Also check the credibility of the people accompanying you. Avoid Kayak operators who use large noisy boats to accopany you.
Here is the iterinary of a kayaking tour of Kadamakkudy Islands conducted by a well trained and responsible kayak operator.
Based on this checklist, we have identified the best kayaking route and provider for you.
- You have two time slots to choose from. From 6.30 am to 8.30 am and from 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm
- Exact reporting time will be decided based on your convenience and the high time-low tide timings
- Difficulty level – Not very difficult. An active person even with no swimming or kayaking knowledge can enjoy this tour.
- Meeting point – At the kayaking center near valiya kadamakkudy. The exact location will be communicated to you once you register.
- Accompanied by experienced and qualified kayaking guide
- Single and double kayaks are available
Inclusions
- Accompanying Experienced Kayaking Guide
- Kayaks, single and double
- Light refreshments
What to bring?
- Comfortable/breathable T-shirt & Swimwear or shorts
- Caps, Sunglasses, Sunscreen lotion SPF 30+, Rain gear
- Water Bottles, Change of Clothes, Towels, Personal Kit & Masks
FAQs
- I do not know swimming or kayaking, can I do this tour? – Yes, we provide all the safety gears for you. We also do kayak training before we start the activity. So you can enjoy the tour without knowing swimming and kayaking.
- Do we get wet during Kayaking? – Yes, please carry towel & extra pair of clothes
- Do we have to bring water? No, there will be an option to fill the water at the start point. Please carry your personal Water Bottles
- Where to keep electronic items? We will be having a common dry bag to carry mobile phone
- Best footwear for kayaking? Slippers or Water Shoes
- Do you have a changing room facility? Yes, we have a basic changing room/toilet available at the Starting & End point
