Kayaking is an enjoyable and thrilling water sport activity that many people enjoy. It’s a great form of exercise and an excellent way to explore the water, whether you are kayaking on a lake or a river. But, when it comes to kayaking, newcomers or people who aren’t familiar with the sport have a question – is it easier to kayak alone or with a partner?
Tandem kayaking, also known as two-person kayaking or double kayaking, is perfect if you like the idea of exploring the water with a friend, family member or partner. Solo kayaking, on the other hand, is an excellent way to enjoy the water on your own and gives you complete control over the kayak.
So,? The short answer is, it depends. Both solo kayaking and tandem kayaking have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Solo kayaking requires you to have a higher skill level and balance control than tandem kayaking. You will need to use your core and apply effective techniques to keep the kayak moving. You need to be more mindful of making controlled movements, which can be difficult for beginners. It’s easier to capsize a kayak when you’re alone, so using a solo kayak requires that you know the appropriate safety procedures and that you have appropriate safety gear.
Tandem kayaking, on the other hand, is more stable as there are two kayakers working together. With two people paddling together, you will have more power, and your boat will be more stable. Paddling together in rhythm, with one person taking the lead, will give you a smoother ride. You can experiment with different paddling techniques and still have the chance to relax, have a conversation or even have a picnic. Nevertheless, you need to be adaptable and work well with your partner, as tandem kayaking can be challenging if you don’t coordinate effectively.
Each style of kayaking has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Solo kayaking requires more experience and balance control, but you get complete control. Tandem kayaking, on the other hand, will give you more stability and possibility to work together with your paddling partner. Ultimately, which type of kayaking you prefer depends on your personal preference, skills and the kind of experience you want.