Canoes, Kayaks & Surf Ski's

If you enjoy the outdoors, paddling a canoe or kayak is like back-packing on water. You get to go to places and see things you would not have been able to without some form of paddle craft.

Hermanus Yacht Club offers you the facilities to optimise the use of your canoe in a safe and natural environment, whilst enjoying all other aspects of club life. There is currently a drive to formalise the Canoe section of the club and promote events that attract paddlers from far and wide.

Safety equipment: Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are essential paddling safety items and should be worn at all times regardless of how experienced a paddler you are. They provide buoyancy to keep your head above water if you capsize Flotation - Ensure your kayak has adequate flotation if swamped. If not use Float bags for an extra measure of safety. Spray skirts - these should be carried on the boat (if not worn) as basic safety equipment when on expeditions or adventurous trips for in rough conditions or wet weather. Drinking water in waterproof containers Paddle leash Bilge pump and sponge Leatherman or Knife Whistle, pencil flares Cell phone &/or radio in waterproof bag Compass / GPS Proper clothing, aquatic foot gear & hat. Be prepared for hot and cold weather, wet and dry. Tow rope Repair kit: duct tape, spare parts, tools, etc. Sun screen First Aid kit in water-proof bag or container. Check regularly. Store your paddling first-aid kit in an easy-to-access spot in your boat. Medical emergencies demand quick responses. EMERGENCY NUMBERS - Have emergency numbers pre-programmed on your cell phone (NSRI telephone contact numbers in the area you're paddling / 082 911 / Police, etc)

Make sure the above are stored where they will be readily accessible should they be required. Carry as many of these devices as possible and KNOW HOW TO USE THEM. Practice with them in a variety of weather conditions so you can use this equipment no matter how bad it gets. It is a good idea in warmer weather to practice capsizing and wet exiting your canoe / kayak and re-entering.

BE SAFE. Always paddle with someone else

FILE A FLOAT PLAN - before embarking on a trip it is advisable to write a float plan giving names of people paddling, where you are starting and finishing your trip as well as any stops along the way and estimated times of arrival and who to contact if you are overdue.

If camping, always leave your campsites clean, take your garbage with you and make sure you adhere to the club's fire rules.