Kayaking vs Canoeing: What’s the Difference and Which One is Best?
What’s the difference between canoeing and kayaking?
It’s a common question, as these two terms are often used interchangeably, yet they’re very different.
If you love the water and want a relaxing yet exciting way to experience rivers, seas, or lakes, kayaking and canoeing are two of the best options.
Both options offer many similarities, but they’re unique in their own way.
So, kayaking vs canoeing - what’s the difference? We’ll explore it all in the guide below.
What’s the Difference Between Kayaking and Canoeing?
The difference between kayaking and canoeing is really just a matter of the different boat designs and how you paddle them.
The Boat’s Design
Canoes have an open-top design, exposing the boat’s interior.
You can either sit on a bench or kneel inside the canoe.
Canoes are typically broader and more spacious, with high sides to help keep water from splashing in.
This open design makes canoes ideal for longer trips, especially if you need to carry a lot of gear.
Because of their width and stability, they’re often used for multi-day expeditions on calm lakes and rivers.
However, canoes are generally slower in the water compared to kayaks.
On the other hand, Kayaks have a closed deck, meaning that most of the boat is covered except for a small hole where the paddler sits.
You sit low in the kayak with your legs stretched out in front of you.
Kayaks are also usually smaller, narrower, and lighter than canoes.
This design makes them faster and easier to manoeuvre. Unlike canoes, kayaks often have a rudder that you can control with your feet, which adds to their ease of manoeuvrability.
Because of their closed design, kayaks are better at keeping water out. This makes them better suited for rough waters like the ocean or fast-moving rivers.
The Paddle
Another key difference between canoeing and kayaking is the paddle you use.
In a canoe, you use a single-bladed paddle.
This means there’s one paddle blade, and you alternate strokes on either side of the canoe to move forward.
You hold the paddle with one hand on the top grip and the other hand lower on the shaft.
Canoe paddling is often slower and more relaxed, as the wider boat doesn’t need quick movements.
If two people are in the canoe, each person paddles on opposite sides to balance the movement.
In a kayak, you use a double-bladed paddle. This type of paddle has blades on both ends, and you alternately dip each blade into the water.
Because you’re seated lower in the water and the kayak is narrower, the double-bladed paddle allows you to move more efficiently and quickly. Kayaking requires a steady rhythm and quicker paddling strokes, especially when navigating tight spaces or moving water.
How They Handle
Because of the different boat designs, the other major difference between canoeing and kayaking is how each type of boat handles and performs in the water.
Due to their wider shape, canoes are generally more stable.
They’re less likely to tip over and are great for calm waters like lakes or gentle rivers.
Their stability makes them a good choice for families or people looking for a more relaxed experience on the water.
However, canoes can be harder to manoeuvre, especially in strong currents or narrow passages. They’re slower than kayaks and require more effort to turn and navigate.
Kayaks are much more agile and faster in the water. Their narrow design and double-bladed paddles make it easy to pick up speed and change direction.
Kayaks are better suited for rougher waters, including the ocean or rivers with rapids.
Experienced kayakers can even learn techniques like the Eskimo roll, which involves flipping their kayak back upright without getting out if they capsize.
Where They’re Used
Canoes are designed for calm, flat water like lakes or slow-moving rivers. They have a lot of storage space, so they’re often used for long trips or camping expeditions where you need to carry extra gear.
Because of their open design, canoes aren’t suitable for rough waters like the ocean or areas where large waves could easily splash into the boat.
Kayaks, with their closed deck and faster handling, are more versatile. They can be used in various environments, including the ocean, rivers, and lakes.
Kayaks are especially popular for sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking, and exploring narrow or hard-to-reach waterways where a canoe might struggle to fit.
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Kayaking vs Canoeing: Different Types of Adventures
The main difference between kayaking and canoeing is the design of the boats. This difference dictates the different types of adventures and experiences you’d have.
Types of Kayaking Adventures
Sea kayaking: If you want to paddle on the ocean, you’ll need a kayak. You can explore coastal areas, islands, and even caves on a kayak. Sea kayaking is great for seeing marine wildlife and navigating rougher waters.
Whitewater kayaking: Whitewater kayaking is loads of fun for thrill-seekers. You’ll paddle down fast-moving rivers with rapids, which requires quick reflexes and strong paddling skills. Canoes cannot handle this.
Recreational kayaking: While kayaking can be done on rough and fast waters, it’s equally enjoyable for calm paddling. Kayaks are perfect for calm lakes or slow rivers, where you can enjoy nature and get some exercise through a relaxed paddle. This type of kayaking is also ideal for day trips or short outings.
Types of Canoeing Adventures
River canoeing: Canoes are great for longer trips on calm rivers. You can carry more gear, which makes them perfect for camping and multi-day adventures.
Lake canoeing: Lake canoeing is an excellent choice for peaceful paddling and taking in the scenery. It’s a slower-paced adventure where you can bring a friend and enjoy a quiet day on the water.
Expedition canoeing: Canoes excel at long journeys where you must transport gear. You can explore large lakes, long stretches of river, or remote areas. This makes them ideal for wilderness trips or group excursions.
Kayaking vs Canoeing: Gear Needed
Of course, you’ll need your vessel whether you go kayaking or canoeing. Beyond this, you’ll need similar gear for each activity - but there are some differences to remember.
The basics include a paddle, a life jacket, and appropriate clothing like a wetsuit and waterproof jacket.
Kayakers often expect to get wetter while paddling, so keep this in mind when choosing what to wear kayaking.
You can be less selective when choosing what to wear canoeing, as you tend to be kept more dry in a canoe.
Kayakers also often use a spray deck to keep water out of the boat, especially in rough conditions.
Whichever activity you do, you’ll want dry bags for your gear and waterproof cases for electronics.
Booking a guided session is an excellent way for beginners to access and try out all the necessary equipment without buying it all upfront.
Canoeing vs Kayaking: Which is Best for Beginners?
Both canoeing and kayaking can be great for beginners, but they offer different experiences.
Canoes are generally easier for first-timers because they feel more stable. Their open design provides more space, and you can paddle at a more relaxed pace.
However, canoes are slower and more challenging to turn, which might make them less responsive, especially in tight spaces.
Kayaks are more agile and faster, easier to steer and manoeuvre, and fun for anyone who wants a more active experience.
However, some beginners might feel less comfortable sitting lower and enclosed in a kayak.
If you want stability and a relaxed experience, start with a canoe. If you’re after speed and easy handling, try a kayak.
Both are accessible, but it’s always a good idea to start in calm waters and, if possible, with a guide for safety.
Both kayaks and canoes offer double versions, where you can paddle with a friend or guide in the same vessel. This can be a great option when exploring kayaking for beginners.
Where to Go Canoeing and Kayaking
As long as there’s water, you can go paddling on it.
Kayaks are much more versatile. They can comfortably be used in rough and calm waters, making them an excellent choice for sea, river, or lake adventures.
Canoes, on the other hand, should be limited to calm waters like rivers and lakes.
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly paddling experience, we recommend calm routes like canoeing Scotland’s River Spey or taking a canoe and wild camping trip across Scotland.
If you’re after more adventure on the water, you could try a trip like kayaking Norway’s fjords, kayaking the Jurassic coast, or kayaking the Icelandic coast.
Ultimately, whether you go kayaking or canoeing, you’ll have an extraordinary adventure.
Check out our range of exciting kayaking and canoeing trips to see the kind of paddling experiences you can have worldwide.
Summary
Choosing between canoeing or kayaking should depend on where you’re paddling and what type of experience you’re after.
If you want a quick thrill on fast waters, kayaking is best. Canoeing might be better if you’re planning a long expedition down a calm river.
Either way, both forms of paddling offer a fantastic experience. Both are ideal for exploring and experiencing nature in a peaceful setting while enjoying great exercise and adventure.
