Canoeing Basics – How to Get in the Boat!
The first step in canoeing is to make sure that you're suited up with a life vest which is the essential piece of safety equipment for almost all boating activities – you can hit your head on a rock a couple of feet of water and drown, but a proper life vest will keep your head above water until you’re rescued.
Next, you need to master the proper technique for getting into the canoe. Here’s a clue – watch how others do it! Too many beginners fail to observe the behaviour of more experienced paddlers and end up making basic mistakes because they’ve been too busy thinking about themselves.
If you're starting out from a dock or a steep bank, first pull the canoe around so that it's parallel to the dock or bank to make it easier to step in. From bank or put-in point (where the water is shallow) you may simply want to wade out slowly until the water is just above your ankles, then step in.
Canoes can be prone to tipping, so use some caution as you climb in. Stay low, keeping your centre of gravity around your hips, and move slowly as you prepare to step in. Lift one foot and carefully place it on the centre line inside the canoe. Steady yourself, then lift the other foot into the boat, also placing it near the centre line.
If the canoe is rocking back and forth, kneel or crouch to lower your centre of gravity further still, as you get settled in. Move slowly to your seat and sit down before thinking about paddles or adjusting your flotation device.
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