Kayaking alone can be fun every once in a while, but you might feel lonely if it happens too often. According to Statista, approximately 16.62 million people participate in this water sport just in the US. (2019) So you’re probably not the only one looking for a partner to kayak with.
Although it’s a popular activity, finding someone to practice it together isn’t as simple as it seems. Most paddlers either already have a group/partner or prefer solo adventures.
Your buddy also needs to do the same kayaking type as you and have a similar experience. Thus, it’s not easy to make a friend with which you have fun paddling. However, it’s not impossible.
If there are kayaking groups or clubs around your area, it’s generally the best way to find someone to paddle with. They might organize meetups where you can invite people to kayak with you. For beginners, taking a course is an excellent idea to meet partners from your level and maybe kayak with them.
Social media groups and forums are good ways to connect with other folks looking for paddling partners. However, you’re more likely to find kayak enthusiasts in their environment. That’s why heading out in a busy place and talking with people might be the ultimate solution.
Finding the right kayaking buddy doesn’t have to be complicated. With all the ideas I’m about to share with you, I’ve no doubt you will be able to meet plenty of people you will enjoy paddling with. You just have to put yourself out there and be friendly with other kayakers.
5 Ways To Find Someone To Paddle With!
Many kayakers end up heading out in the water alone because they only refer to their existing network. Even if you have friends practicing this sport, they might not be suitable or available to keep you company on paddling adventures.
Therefore, opening your arms to the 16.62 million other kayak enthusiasts that you don’t know can be an excellent idea. But how do you exactly find them? Here are 5 ways to connect with other people that also want new paddling partners!
Kayak Groups, Clubs & Meetup Events.
Joining a community of people that participate in kayaking can be ideal for making new friends and finding someone to paddle with. There are probably already groups or events around your area open to new members. Otherwise, you can always start your own club.
You have a few options to find meetups or groups you can join. My first advice is to ask your current network if they know clubs near your location. Local kayak shops or schools might also help you with that.
Then, you can do some research on your own with the search engine of your choice. By typing “kayak meetup/group/club near me” in Google, you should come across what’s available around you. Once you find something interesting, it’s time to meet new people and go paddling with them.
Another way to join groups is through specialized websites such as Meetup.com. It has several members from all over the world in the kayaking section with whom you can talk and plan trips. The American Canoe Association also has a search tool for clubs to help you find a group to paddle with!
Take A Kayaking Course.
If you’re just getting started, heading out alone in the water isn’t recommended. However, you might not want more advanced paddlers to wait for you during the whole trip. That’s why finding other people with a similar experience and skillset is generally better for everyone.
Like many other beginners, you should take a class to improve your skills. Well, it’s also an excellent opportunity to meet other people that can be great kayaking partners for you. Be friendly, exchange your contact info, and then plan group trips.
You don’t have to be good at this sport before doing it with someone else. On the contrary, finding the right paddling buddy at the start is advantageous for everyone. Both of you will benefit from some company and help, especially to learn the basics of kayaking.
Look On Kayak Forums & Social Media.
With the Internet, communicating with other people has never been easier. There are many forums or groups on social media dedicated to kayaking. So it’s a golden nugget to connect with other paddlers.
The only problem with this technique is the location. People on the web can be from anywhere in the world. Thus, it’s not ideal when you want to meet them in person. However, it’s an excellent alternative if there are no local kayak clubs around your area.
For example, there are numerous active Facebook groups in which you can ask questions and maybe find someone to paddle with. You can also go on forums such as Paddling.com or BoaterTalk.com to connect with other people that share your passion for kayaking.
Initiate Someone To Kayaking.
Your friends that aren’t into this sport yet might be interested in giving it a try. Introducing someone you already know is an excellent way to make a good paddling buddy.
By teaching your future adventure partner to kayak, you will also improve your skills and knowledge. Thus, it’s a win/win deal. You help him get started, and he keeps you company on your upcoming paddling trips.
It’s also a great way to spend time with your friends. This method doesn’t require you to be an expert or have any certification. Nonetheless, your knowledge and skills must be well developed before teaching someone how to kayak.
Paddle In A Popular Spot During Busy Hours.
If no solution mentioned above works for you or you don’t mind talking with strangers, here’s another idea. You can show up at a popular kayaking spot and ask people if you can join them to paddle together.
Most people will be happy to keep you company and help you improve your skills. On the other hand, it takes a lot of courage, and you have no idea who you will end up paddling with.
Some people might also say not, and you have to respect that. In the worst case, you can always go kayaking alone.
Last Thoughts About Finding A Partner To Kayak With!
Finally, you don’t have to go paddling alone anymore. There are many ways to find a group or partner to enjoy this activity with someone else. Having some company on the water can make you feel less lonely and reduce the risks involved.
The more you build your network, the more chances you have to find a good kayaking buddy. So don’t be afraid to get yourself out there and be present in the local community.
It’s also essential to be grateful and friendly with people if you want them to enjoy your presence. I hope my article will help you find someone to paddle with. Now it’s time for you to meet new kayakers and plan group trips with them. Who knows, we might end up going on the water together.
Let’s Find That Kayaking Buddy!
