Kayak canoe

When buying a kayak, canoe, or any other small boat, it is important to understand the basics of their respective designs. For instance, despite what many people will say, a kayak and a canoe are not the same type of boat. There are marked differences between the two, both in their appearance and their operation.

The kayak / canoe debate can generally be settled by looking at the design of the boat. A canoe is typically an “open” design, whereas a kayak utilizes a closed design. This means that on a canoe the entire top of the boat is open and can be used to store cargo and passengers; however, this open design also means that more water can get inside the boat.

Kayak / canoe differences can also be seen in how the two types of boats are maneuvered. A kayak typically requires the driver to use a double-ended paddle that is alternated from one side of the boat to the other. This generally makes kayaks a much more maneuverable option than are the larger canoes.