Ruin Game

Whether you are young or old, there is always something new and exciting to try out. Canoeing is one such activity, especially for water-lovers, but, with a modern spin on traditional boats.

Are you planning your first Delaware river canoeing outing? Do not worry about getting overwhelmed with all the equipment and terminologies. Focus on learning the fundamentals and be well equipped with the basics when you start.

Canoeing needs confidence and this guide walks you through some basics to get you set for your first canoeing adventure.

Basics of Canoeing

Canoeing does not have to seem scary. This article simplifies canoeing and breaks the process down into basics that you should know.

Getting Into a Canoe

First things first, how do you get into a canoe? While it seems tricky, all you need to do is focus on your center of gravity. Your center of gravity is typically high.

When climbing onto the canoe from a beach, position it perpendicular to the shore. Have one person stabilize the boat by placing the bow in the water firmly.

If you are climbing onto the canoe from a rocky shore, position it parallelly to the shoreline.

Remember, always stay low when climbing onto the canoe, and step onto the center for improved balance.

Getting Out of a Canoe

Getting out of the canoe is quite similar to getting into it.

When paddling to the shore, position your canoe perpendicular to the shoreline. Similarly, when paddling to a rocky shoreline, reverse the process you used to get in. Position the boat parallel to the shore and have one person stabilize the canoe by grabbing onto the dock.

Sitting Vs. Kneeling

Your only options in a canoe are to sit or kneel. Sitting is definitely the more comfortable option of the two, however, not necessarily the best option.

When you are sitting, your center of gravity shifts to the seat, and when you kneel, it shifts lower. The higher the center of gravity, the higher your chances of losing balance.

Avoiding Tipping the Canoe

Chances are that if you are new to canoeing, you will always be fearful of tipping it. Fret not! Once you are in the canoe, it becomes surprisingly stable. You won’t have to put up a balancing act.

If you follow these tips, you won’t have trouble balancing the canoe:

• Kneel on the canoe floor to gain stability
• Sit down only after you are confident that it is stable
• If you are nervous, kneel instead of sitting
• Keep your upper body and core upright and perpendicular to the water at all times
• Keep your hips loose and relaxed to avoid tipping

Wear Appropriate Clothing

The average temperature in Delaware ranges from 75.8 to 32 degrees. So, during the warmer months, carry a change of clothes such as shorts and a T-shirt along with your swimming trunks.

In the colder months, you need something to keep you insulated and waterproof. A waterproof jacket or thermals paired with waterproof trousers will keep you warm. In either case, it is better to carry spare warm clothes in case you fall into the water.

Most importantly, always wear a buoyancy aid.

Wrapping Up

Delaware river canoeing is a truly joyful experience. However, make sure to follow all safety tips. Keep an eye out for any rocks or hindrances in your path that could be hazardous.

If the river is slow, you can also try paddling upstream. It is challenging yet thrilling.