Which is easier, a single or a double kayak?
Posted on: December 15th, 2022
There are many ways to make Las Vegas kayaking a personal experience, and choosing the type of kayak you use is one of them. Two popular kinds of kayaks are single and double. Single kayaks, as the name implies, are one-person kayaks, while double kayaks seat two people. Aside from the noticeable difference that you’ll need two people for a two-person kayak, other factors determine which type of kayak is best to use.
Should You go Solo?
In cases where you don’t necessarily have to paddle solo, such as if you are going kayaking with a friend or family member, you have more freedom to choose between using a one-person and a two-person kayak. As with anything, there are pros and cons to consider when deciding what type of kayak to use.
Advantages of Solo Kayaking
Kayaking alone in a solo kayak is the only option if you’ll be boating alone. However, even if they’re going out on the water with others, many people still prefer solo kayaks in group settings. If you are in a solo kayak, you can go off and explore on your own. You don’t have to worry about wanting to deviate from your group, which ultimately creates a better experience for all. The nature of your Las Vegas kayaking outing also influences the type of kayak that you will want to use. If you plan to go fishing, for instance, you will likely want to have a single kayak. The same applies to any other trip where you’ll be bringing a fair amount of personal gear, such as a camping trip.
Drawbacks of a Solo Kayak
While solo kayaks can be a great way to get out and explore on your own and at your own pace, solo kayaking also has some downsides. If you’re renting kayaks, remember that renting a single kayak is more expensive than renting a double kayak, also called a “tandem” kayak. Solo kayaks may also not be the best choice if you are heading out on the water with a novice kayaker or if you are the novice kayaker in the group. Riding in a double kayak with a more experienced kayaker can make a group kayaking tour more fun and comfortable for a person who isn’t used to being out on the water. A guide or more experienced fellow kayaker can teach a newer kayaker about the proper paddling techniques and other aspects of kayaking that are good to know.
Advantages of a Double Kayak
While there are many good reasons to consider using a solo kayak if you’ll be out paddling, renting a double kayak also has advantages. When you share a kayak with another family member or friend, you can spend more quality time together, especially if you decide to leave your kayaking group and go out on an adventure of your own. The old adage “safety in numbers” can also apply to a double kayak. If you do capsize in a double kayak, someone else is there to help you turn the boat back over, get back in the boat, or get help if you are injured.
A double kayak can also be more visible to other boaters, especially if you have lights and reflective gear. If you are a more experienced kayaker but have a friend or family member who is hesitant about signing up for Las Vegas kayak tours, renting a double kayak is a perfect way to help them get comfortable in the water. If you are in the boat with a beginner kayaker or going on a more extended kayaking tour, going in a tandem kayak also means you can take turns paddling. A tandem kayak is also an excellent option for those who want to travel farther or faster on the water.
The Downsides of a Double Kayak
Although you can still split off from your group and explore on your own if you go in a double kayak, it’s possible that the two people sharing the boat may not always agree on where to go. Rather than having a fun and enjoyable kayak outing, you can end up arguing with your kayaking partner about where to go. If you have a limited amount of time out in the boat, you’ll want to make sure that you and your kayaking partner agree on where to stop if you plan to have an adventure on the side.
Personal preference can also determine if you use a one-person or a two-person kayak. Las Vegas kayak tours are generally a quieter activity to get outside and enjoy nature. Some people prefer a tranquil and solitary experience to enjoy the sights and sounds of the natural world. If you are familiar with kayaking and prefer to go in a boat by yourself, a one-person kayak will be a better option so that your experience in nature is not interrupted by another person talking to you.
Storage and Transportation
If you’re traveling with a group on a Hoover Dam kayak tour, you don’t always have to worry about the logistics of transporting a kayak from one place to another. A tandem kayak can be easier to transport than trying to carry two single-person kayaks if you need to put your kayak or kayaks in the water. If you are going on a shorter day kayaking trip and don’t need much extra room for bringing gear, you may find that a two-person kayak has more storage space for smaller belongings and personal items than a single-person kayak. People planning to go kayaking with their families and smaller children may find that a tandem kayak is easier to manage. Another consideration is that you can bring a pet with you if you’re going in a two-person kayak, such as a dog.
What Kind of Kayak Should You Get?
After deciding whether you want to use a one-person or a double kayak, the next step is figuring out what type of kayak to use. Kayaks are available in several different styles, including sit-on-top, inflatable, touring, and shorter sport kayaks. A sit-on-top kayak has an open cockpit. It’s easy to get into and out of the boat, and the kayak won’t fill up with water if it flips. Sit-on-top kayaks are a top choice for recreational kayakers who want to enjoy their time on the water but don’t need a fast boat.
In contrast, the other kinds of kayaks have closed cockpits and are more aerodynamic, although closed cockpit kayaks vary in width and stability. If you are new to the sport, a kayak with more stability, such as a sit-on-top boat or a touring kayak, will have a wider base and, therefore, likely make you feel more stable and confident on the water.
There are many considerations to think about when you are planning to go kayaking near Las Vegas. If you’re not sure whether to get a single person or a tandem kayak for your kayak outing, talk to the helpful and knowledgeable staff at Blazin’ Paddles to get more information and advice about the best boat for you and your family.
