Before heading out for your kayaking trip on the Ardèche, here's an essential guide to help you maneuver and navigate safely. We'll cover the steps for properly settling into your boat, how to steer and propel your kayak, as well as safety rules for navigating rapids and what to do in case of capsizing.
1. Getting Properly Seated in the Kayak
Your safety and comfort largely depend on how you position yourself in the kayak. Make sure to wear a life jacket that fits your size. It should remain properly fastened throughout the trip. It's not uncommon to see police in kayaks checking life jackets (and no, this is not a joke ^^). Closed-toe shoes are also mandatory. Don't forget sunglasses (with a cord attaching them to your life jacket in case of a fall), hat, and sun protection. If you're going for a full day, a picnic and water will be necessary.
Position des pagayeurs
If you're in a double kayak, the most experienced or strongest paddler should be positioned at the back to steer the boat. The paddler at the front focuses on propulsion. If there's a weight difference between the two people, the heavier person should sit at the back to facilitate boat maneuverability.
Positionnement
Sit up straight, with knees slightly bent and supported on the footrests. This position will give you better stability and more control over the boat.
2. Propulsion and Steering of the Kayak
Good paddle control is essential for moving forward and steering the kayak. Hold the paddle with both hands in a balanced way; most paddles have black marks for hand positioning. To move forward, dip the paddle blade into the water near the front of the kayak and pull it backward in a straight motion. Alternate sides to maintain a straight trajectory. The closer you paddle to the boat, the straighter it will go. If your boat tends to zigzag, it's probably because you're paddling too far from the side of your kayak.
Direction du kayak
To turn right, paddle on the left, and vice versa. The further you reach out to the side of the boat while making a circular motion toward the back, the more it will turn. You can also use the paddle as a rudder at the back of the kayak. In case of loss of direction, the rear paddler can compensate by paddling several times on the opposite side of the desired direction to correct the trajectory.
3. Navigating Rapids Safely
Rapids can be intimidating, but with the right techniques, they're easy to negotiate. Before entering a rapid, observe if there are many people. It's better to stop upstream and let large groups of boats pass. When several canoes pass at the same time, it often causes pile-ups, increasing your chances of ending up in the water. Observe the current and identify the ideal passage line, often clear between rocks or eddies. Always follow the main flow of the river, which is called the water vein. When water narrows at a rapid, it forms a "V". Entering this "V" is a good start.
Posture et contrôle
Stay well-centered in your kayak, with knees bent and in contact with the footrests. Keep your paddle ready to adjust your trajectory in real-time. Paddle continuously to maintain speed, which will allow you to better control the boat in rapids. If you let yourself drift without paddling, the current will likely push you toward rocks. If the kayak becomes unstable, don't panic: continue paddling to maintain control and use your body to compensate for the kayak's movements. If you find yourself against a rock, it's essential not to lean to the opposite side, as the current will push the boat and you risk capsizing. Use the expression "rock kisses" by leaning toward the rock at the moment of impact.
4. What to Do in Case of Capsizing
Capsizing can happen, but with the right reflexes, it doesn't present a danger. Don't panic: the life jacket will keep you afloat. Stay calm. If you capsize, don't try to recover your kayak or paddle right away. Let yourself drift on your back, feet forward to protect yourself from rocks and submerged branches. It's important to lift your buttocks to stay as close as possible to the surface, as the river is shallow in the rapids. This will prevent you from hitting the bottom. Once out of the rapid, you can find a calmer spot to recover your equipment.
Remonter dans le kayak
Don't try to get back into the kayak in the middle of a rapid, as other boats are coming behind you and there are risks of collision and chain accidents. Make sure you're out of the rapid before getting back into the kayak. To re-enter, position yourself on the side, grab the edges, and hoist yourself up by pushing on the opposite side to stabilize the boat. Then pivot to sit properly.
5. Respect This Corner of Paradise
It's very important to secure your belongings. A large number of items end up in our beautiful river, often unintentionally: mobile phones, sunglasses, towels, T-shirts, plastic bottles, etc. Please make sure your personal belongings and waste are properly stored in the waterproof containers provided and attached to your boat.
Essential Tips
- Securely attach all your personal belongings in waterproof containers
- Always wear your life jacket, even if you know how to swim
- Stay hydrated regularly, especially in summer
- Avoid alcohol before and during the trip
- Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, hat, and attached glasses
- In case of fatigue, don't hesitate to dock on a beach to rest
Gallery
Conclusion
You're now ready to embark on an adventure on one of the most beautiful rivers in the world! With these basic techniques and safety tips, you'll be able to fully enjoy your kayaking trip on the Ardèche. Remember that the important thing is to have fun while respecting this magnificent natural environment.
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