Charleston Kayaking and Canoeing The benefits of canoeing and kayaking are many, one of which is that you are not just observing various natural sites but when paddling, you are actually low upon the water with a view typically reserved only for wildlife creatures. This aquatic perspective allows you not only to observe and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings but also to actually become a part of the natural community.
Secondly, the reduction of stress from being unplugged and away from the hustle of everyday life is only one of the health benefits of paddling. Consider also, the upper body strength that is quickly gained from the proper manipulation of the oars. An additional health benefit that should not be discounted is the soothing healing power in the simplicity of the fresh air and sunshine.
Lets not forget the beneficial result of social interaction and team building experiences available at the many manual boating clubs like Coastal Expeditions and Paddle Fish Kayaking as participants learn to row, operate and work together to produce a result or reach a goal. There is also the building of character for young family members who learn how to get where they want to go, propelled by his or her own strength and having the accomplishment be its own reward.
As sports go, canoeing and kayaking can be among the least expensive with a minimal rental fees or start up investment for a small beginner's boat and very little additional equipment to purchase: a life jacket and perhaps a helmet. Lessons are usually a one-time thing for safety and maneuvering and there are many established outfits that are ACA certified from which to choose.
For those who prefer an expert along on a first excursion, guides are available at operations like Better Business Bureau Certified Nature Adventures Outfitters. Tours at these type businesses typically range from 2-hours, 4-hours to 8-hours with different pricing for length of tour, type of craft, location of tour and age of participant. The price for just the boat rental without the guide, of course, is even more of a savings.
Of all the benefits in addition to the few highlighted here, the most important aspects of canoeing and kayaking is that they're easy and just plain fun! No pressure of the white waters, no hooks to bait, no docking fees, no gas to buy, nothing to pack but for a picnic lunch if you choose to stop at some special scenic spot along the way.
Versatile as a sport these sturdy manual crafts, once used for a means of transportation over the waterways can be used to navigate in all bodies of water: channels, estuaries, ponds, black water swamps, tidal creeks, lakes and coastal waters or to just meander down one of Charleston's lazy rivers for a day of relaxing fun taking in the sights and sounds of Mother Nature's backyard. |
