How to Get In and Out of a Kayak: Step-by-Step Techniques for Safety and Stability

Mastering kayak entry and exit is fundamental to safe, confident paddling. Techniques differ slightly for sit-inside vs. sit-on-top, and for shore vs. dock launches.

Getting INTO a Kayak (From Shore – Most Common)

1. Position kayak: Float in knee-deep water, perpendicular to shore, cockpit up. Bow pointing toward open water.
2. Stabilize: Straddle kayak, one foot each side. Hold cockpit coaming with both hands.
3. Sit first: Lower butt into seat before bringing legs in. Keep weight centered, low.
4. Swing legs in: One at a time, place feet on foot pegs/braces. Adjust for slight knee bend.
5. Grab paddle: From deck or partner. Push off with hands/paddle.

Getting INTO a Kayak (From Dock)

1. Place paddle across dock and cockpit coaming (outrigger)
2. Sit on dock, swing feet into cockpit
3. Lower into seat using paddle for balance
4. Adjust feet, push off

Getting OUT OF a Kayak (To Shore)

1. Approach: Paddle to shallow, calm water. Orient perpendicular to shore.
2. Stabilize: Place paddle across kayak behind coaming (or on dock).
3. Feet first: Remove one foot, place on bottom. Then second foot. Stand up slowly, weight centered.
4. Exit: Step out onto shore/sand. Don't rush—most capsizes happen here.
5. Secure: Grab bow handle, pull kayak up beach.

Getting OUT (To Dock)

1. Pull alongside dock, hold dock
2. Place paddle on dock
3. Swing one leg onto dock, then stand transferring weight
4. Bring second leg up

Critical Safety Tips

• PFD ON before approaching water – non-negotiable
• Practice in calm, shallow water with buddy
• Keep weight LOW and CENTERED during transitions
• Never stand in a sit-inside kayak on water
• Wet exit drill (capsize + exit) essential for sit-inside paddlers

Adaptive Techniques

For mobility limitations: transfer benches, paddle floats, assisted lifts, sit-on-top (easier entry/exit). Adaptive paddling programs widely available.