Kayak Use
(Please read carefully)
To add to your enjoyment, safety and effective use of kayaks,
please follow these simple instructions.

1. Please carry the kayak by the handles on each end. In addition, a hand under the kayak body may be helpful.
Never drag, pull or carry kayak by any straps or seats.
Use ONLY the handles on the ends or kayak itself, to carry kayak.
2. Lift kayak clear of cement and rough surfaces as much as possible.
3. Use the paddles for paddling ONLY. They are NOT designed for pushing off of rocks, walls or other objects.
4. Paddle leashes keep the paddle connected to the kayak. To connect them, simply open the Velcro strap and affix it around the center of the assembled paddle. (Even with paddle leashes on, as a courtesy to others who may be in the water, secure the paddles on the kayak so area around kayak is clear.)

When getting in and out of the kayak:

During rough conditions, it may be best to get in the kayak and paddle out and away from the sea wall BEFORE making little adjustments like attaching paddle leashes, seat position, etc. Remember to time your entry in between the sets of waves. Often, there are about 6 or 7 waves and then it's calm for a bit. Keep the kayak balanced at all times. When launching/getting in the kayak at the pier, wait for the swell/ocean tide to come in and raise the kayak up. FEEL your Center in your own body... When it's relatively calm, lower your body into the kayak by placing a foot on either side of the kayak, (inside kayak) immediately in front of where you'll be sitting. Hold on to the wall. When you're ready, bend your legs until you are squatting and gently sit down. It is suggested to have the individual with the best balance get in the kayak last.

UPON your Return:
Remember to REMOVE paddle leashes and all equipment
BEFORE pulling kayak out of the water. (Seats can remain attached to kayak) while pulling kayak out of the water.

5. When coming in to the pier at the bay, please use the "deeper water launch area." It's the one with the piece of wood affixed to the concrete, (level where vehicles are) on which the kayak can slide, when pulling out of water. It takes two people to pull the kayak out of the water without scraping it a lot. When 2 people do this, there is minimal scraping of kayak on concrete. One friend can go up the stairs of launch area to the level where vehicles park, and stand next to 2x4 piece of wood, while the other hands the handle of the kayak to him or her. Bottom friend lifts and pushes, while the top friend lifts and pulls...simple.
6. Rinse salt water off of kayak and equipment when finished for the day.
7. If you are using the kayak "Seats," please make sure some fresh water is sprayed on the zippers of the seats, as the salt water can cause corrosion over time. Please remove the seats before storing the kayak.
Mahalo for hanging seats to dry.
8. Please store kayak upside down or on its side ONLY. For space purposes, we store it on its side.
9. If you encounter dolphins or whales, please remember you are in "their" home. Thank you for honoring their home and giving them space to rest and enjoy without having to look out for kayaks and swimmers.
Please do NOT chase or "follow" them around. Be interesting, and they may come to you. See Dolphin Etiquette
10. Remember to be aware of your surroundings at all times and at all times, have FUN!


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