For people who are not familiar with water sports, the difference between a canoe and a kayak can be quite confusing. Canoes and kayaks are both light boats that are pedaled and controlled by people using oars, but each boat has its own uniqueness. While both can be used for recreational activities, water sports, fishing, and traveling, there are some key differences to note when distinguishing one another.
Step
Step 1. Learn the basic classifications
Canoes and kayaks are classified by letters and numbers. Letters refer to the type of boat used, and numbers refer to the number of oarsmen in the boat. While there are different types of canoes and kayaks for different water activities, water conditions, and skill levels, boat classifications are generally based on a system of letters and numbers. For example, a canoe with one paddler is classified as C1 (solo). Canoes with two paddlers are classified as C2 (tandem). While the typical canoe has an open deck (meaning that the top and inside of the boat are clearly visible), some canoes used in competition or in harsher water conditions may have an enclosed cockpit, changing their classification.
- In this example, a typical canoe could be classified as OC1, while a canoe with a closed cockpit could be classified as C1.
- Solo kayaks are classified as K1, while tandem kayaks are classified as K2, and K4 classifies kayaks with a crew of four.
Step 2. Notice the difference in terms of goals
In the world of boating for recreational purposes, metaphorically speaking, canoes tend to be thought of as “pickup trucks”, while kayaks tend to be more like “sports cars”.
- Canoes are considered more practical, flexible, and easy to set up. These features make canoes really great for outings while paddling with the family in very calm waters.
- On the other hand, kayaks carry fewer people, and can generally go faster than canoes. That is why kayaking is preferred for challenging and competitive water conditions.
Step 3. Notice the differences in design
As mentioned earlier, a typical canoe generally has an open deck, while kayaks usually have a covered deck. The difference between the two parts of the deck is very clear: the open deck exposes the top and inside of the boat, while the closed deck covers the top and inside of the boat. Because of this, canoes with open decks allow rowers to move freely, while kayaks with closed decks encase the rowers, providing protection and a locked seat position.
For harsher waters such as sea kayaking or rapids (class 3 and above), a covered deck combined with a spray skirt is very useful. The spray skirt is a kind of covering material that surrounds the rower to prevent water from entering the boat
Step 4. Notice the difference in sitting position
Rowers in canoes generally sit in one of two ways: sitting on their buttocks or sitting with their legs crossed. When sitting on the buttocks, the canoeer sits on the seat and places his knees on the top and rim of the boat. When sitting with their legs crossed, the canoeist is positioned closer to the front of the seat, and clasps his knees against the sides of the boat for stability. Kayak paddlers generally sit more towards the stern (back) of the boat in the cockpit, with both legs extended forward in the body of the kayak, with both knees resting on thigh braces.
Step 5. Notice the difference in the oars
In canoes, rowers generally use single-bladed oars. Kayakers usually use double-bladed paddles. Since kayakers generally sit lower than canoeers (the kayak sits slightly above the waterline, while the canoe sits way above the waterline), single-bladed paddles don't provide efficient propulsion.
- Some of the advantages of using a double-bladed paddle are that the technique is easy to learn, and results in faster pacing.
- Some of the advantages of using a single-bladed paddle are that it saves power, and minimizes zigzagging movements in the water.
Tips
Ask an experienced rower to show you the difference between a kayak and a canoe. The staff at the outdoor shop can also share valuable knowledge about the differences between these two types of boats and which one is right for you
Warning
- Always wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid in case you fall into the water. It can happen, even on the quietest of days. Helmets are also mandatory when wading through rapids or any moving water in adjacent rocks.
- Kayaking the rapids is considered a “risky” sport, but cruising the sea by kayak/canoe can also be life-threatening.
- Before engaging in any rowing sport, make sure you are aware of the risks and take adequate precautions. Or ask your instructor to explain the risks and precautions to be taken.
