Technique for Self Rescue and Assisted Rescue

[Luke_Warmwater]

Hi;

We just purchased a Advanced Frame and a Advanced Frame Expedition. We are new to kayaking and have taken a basic paddling/rescue skills course.

What is the best method for self rescue and assisted rescue on AF kayaks, given the different design from traditional kayaks? In other words, if I fall into the water, what is the best method to get back into my kayak if I am alone or if I am with a second paddler?

[JCOOLEY]

YOu can swing your body over the side of the kayak and roll into it or you can pull yourself up onto it and then into it from either the front or back of the kayak. The front is the easiest because there is more deck space to work with.

Jeremy

[Luke_Warmwater]

Thanks Jeremy;

I have been reading the forum and enjoy it very much. Good job.

[KayakJack]

carrying a paddle float and learning how to use it is essential.

When flipping the kayak, grab the far side to flip, it'll be easier and won't shoot out from under your arms.

[paddlesheep]

I posted a couple of videos of me getting back into my Innova Sunny from the water on my blog. It's pretty much the same with the AE...very easy compared to a hardshell.

http://paddlesheep.blogspot.com/

[Luke_Warmwater]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I watched the video. It does look easy.

[dkvl]

Certainly didn't find it as easy as the video. Enclosed compartment not so easy to flip into. I managed to get myself onto the front and pulled myself along to be able to get legs in. Harder with my PFD on due to catching. Certainly I wouldn't manage without another kayak alongside to provide added stability.
I would appreciated any more advise. Anyone got a video of getting back into the Advanced Frame from the water.
Many thanks

[PJohanson]

I practised in safe conditions with friends nearby. My best way to get back into any of these inflatables is cowboy style over the bow.
Hold the boat and swim round to the bow. Let your legs float up behind you so you are lying flat on top of the water. Put both hands on the bow, grab the deck lines if you can, and push DOWN. Move your head and upper body over your hands (or pull the bow under your head and upper body, whatever works). Shift your grip so your hands are gripping the coaming or close to it, and pull your body farther onto the bow. Move farther along the kayak with feet dangling on either side for balance. When your midsection is over the cockpit, snake one leg inside the kayak, then the other leg. Roll over so that your bottom is back in the seat.
The Cowboy re-entry feels like how a seal would get into one of these boats, leaping out of the water and slithering up the bow.

[dkvl]

Thanks - I will give this a try. I was approaching the front of the kayak at more of an angle to avoid a forward flip.