In a world where the average kid’s kayak is a glorified pool toy, Celliers Kruger has a different idea of what kayaking for kids could look like. Built to be stable and comfortable while also allowing for growth as a young paddler, the Piper sit-on-top kid’s kayak is a far cry from your average kid’s kayak.
We caught up with Kruger at Canoecopia 2025 to hear all about the design choices behind the Piper.
The inside scoop on the Lekker Kayaks Piper
The Piper, designed for kids aged 5-12 and up to 130 pounds, is stable but streamlined with a long waterline to preserve speed so that a kid can more easily keep up with adults on the water. Like a touring kayak, it can be edged and turned. The Piper is a touch more narrow than the average kid’s kayak, but not necessarily less stable.
The philosophy behind the design of the Piper is that kids need a boat that inspires confidence and allows for growth as a paddler early on, so that by the time they’re ready for their first performance boat they’ve built foundational paddling skills.
Key in the Piper’s design is a higher-volume bow to inspire confidence while paddling in waves, a slightly higher midsection around the cockpit of the boat to keep a small paddler drier and secure, and a downward sloping stern deck to reduce wind interference. D-rings for thigh straps make it possible to take the Piper down small rapids, and Kruger himself took his own kids out on small rapids in earlier iterations of the Piper.
“I believe that the vast majority of kids should start out paddling with sit-on-tops,” Kruger writes about the Piper on its product page. “It is the safest option by far, and also the most enjoyable if the boat is designed right. Unfortunately the bulk of kids sit-on-tops on the market are really just toys, not kayaks.”
Pelican’s Ram-X is a time-tested, ultra-durable material used in the construction of recreational kayaks and canoes. This reinforced polyethylene plastic is used exclusively in Pelican boats, including the popular Pelican Sentinel kayak and Pelican 15.5 canoe.
This Pelican Ram-X review provides an overview of why the material is an outstanding choice for paddlers looking for a bombproof, no-maintenance kayak or canoe for many applications.
Wear A Life Jacket
Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.
The Sentinel 100X recreational kayak features an open cockpit and weighs only 43 lb, perfect for the regular paddler who likes to enjoy various surrounding waterways. Easy to carry, this sit-on-top kayak includes basic features designed to make your experience enjoyable like molded footrests and an adjustable Ergoform padded backrest with seat cushion.
The Argo 100X EXO recreational kayak is versatile, fun and ideal for paddlers looking for a stable and relaxing experience on lakes, slow-moving rivers and calm waters. The twin-arched multi chine hull offers excellent stability giving you a secure and steady ride. It also makes it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak. Added floating blocks on each side of the kayak ensures you safety and peace of mind during your ride. Holds a maximum capacity of 275 lb.
The Argo 100XP Angler is specifically tailored to the paddler looking to regularly use their kayak fishing or on recreational expeditions. It is also great for a family of kayaking enthusiasts, each with their own preference on how to spend their time on the water. With ergonomic carrying handles and at only 41 lb., you will be able to easily carry the Argo 100XP Angler to wherever you decide to go.
The River Gorge 130XP tandem kayak includes a quick-lock box and a storage platform with bungee cords. It also features molded footrests, two bottle holders, and four accessory eyelets for added convenience. With its light weight of 73 lb and its Ergofit G2 adjustable seat, this tandem kayak will undoubtedly offer you beautiful moments as a duo on the water!
The Pelican 15.5 canoe is the ideal compromise between tracking and maneuverability. Shorter than an expedition canoe, it is perfect for solo or tandem rides. This canoe features three molded bench seats, vertical rod holders, drink holder and carrying handles. Made of RAM-X, it is built to last. The aluminum beartail canoe paddles are must have accessories to fully enjoy your Pelican 15.5 and create memorable exploration stories worth sharing with everyone.
Carry A Waterproof VHF Radio, Use Your Phone Only As A Backup
A handheld VHF marine band radio allows you to communicate with the Coast Guard and other boat traffic. Use Channel 16 only for hailing and emergencies. The radio should be waterproof, because it is virtually certain to get wet.
A cell phone, even if in a waterproof case or sealable bag, might not work, so don’t rely on it as the primary means of emergency communication.
What is Ram-X?
Technically, Pelican Ram-X is defined as “crosslink thermoformed high-density polyethylene.” That mouthful of jargon essentially means Ram-X is a heat-molded plastic that gains strength and rigidity from its multiple layers. The material was engineered by the Coleman company for use in its Ram-X canoes in the 1980s; early testing involved deliberately wrapping Ram-X canoes around boulders in whitewater rapids and bombarding the material with repeated impacts from 69-pound rocks (the same impact crushed and dented fiberglass and aluminum canoes). Ram-X was revolutionary for its supreme toughness and cheap price.
Today, this proprietary material is exclusively used by Pelican Sport in recreational kayaks and canoes. Pelican Ram-X is noted for its outstanding durability and long lifespan. Its stiffer crosslink construction makes it more rigid (and therefore more efficient to paddle) than many other polyethylene plastics and a UV-resistant outer layer allows it to tolerate outdoor storage.
Pelican Ram-X attributes and applications
Ram-X is designed for recreational paddlers looking for ultimate durability in a budget-friendly kayak or canoe. Its primary attributes are impact-resistance and the ability to rapidly regain its original shape after being deformed. Ram-X bounces back from impact, whether it’s been run over by a pickup truck or tacoed around a mid-river rock.
Although you may never desire to paddle a whitewater river, these bombproof characteristics translate to worry-free use: A Pelican Ram-X kayak easily withstands repeated rough use, such as being dragged over shoreline rocks. With good UV-resistance it’s also fine to store your Ram-X kayak or canoe where it is exposed to the elements. What’s more, most Ram-X boats retail for less than $1,000.
Such great impact resistance comes with certain drawbacks, both of which are most often secondary considerations for recreational paddlers. First, Pelican Ram-X (like all other polyethylene plastics used in recreational kayaks and canoes) is flexible compared to more expensive composite laminates. This means that the hull tends to flex a little while paddling, making the boat less efficient in the water. However, Pelican has made solid efforts to overcome this drawback by installing a hull-stiffening aluminum rod along the keel of its Ram-X canoes and adopting more rigid hull shapes in its kayaks.
Second, all polyethylene boats involve a trade-off between extreme durability and weight. Like other plastic kayaks and canoes, Pelican Ram-X can only be described as heavy compared to more advanced (and more expensive) materials.
Because of these characteristics Pelican Ram-X boats are perfect for families, cottage paddlers, kayak anglers and river canoeists. If you don’t mind a heftier load and want a recreational kayak or canoe that lives up to the label of being “virtually indestructible,” then a Ram-X boat is for you.
Ram-X pros and cons
Pros
Super tough, able to withstand pretty much anything a recreational paddler can throw at it
Only slightly more expensive than comparable (and often less durable) entry-level boats
Hull shapes on boats made with Ram-X have complex arches and ridges to maximize rigidity for paddling performance while also retaining toughness
Cons
Modest weight penalty, but weights are comparable with other plastic recreational boats
Pelican Ram-X kayak accessories and outfitting
Most Pelican Ram-X kayaks are available in two categories of outfitting, akin to a base model and luxury edition in cars. For example, the Pelican Sentinel 100X features a more basic seat and fewer outfitting features than the Pelican Sentinel 100X EXO model (which includes a removable waterproof storage pod for the stern and an upgraded seat). The various lineups of Ram-X fishing kayaks and Ram-X tandem kayaks have distinguishing features between similar models, allowing buyers to match comfort features with their budget while still retaining paddling performance and Ram-X durability.
Pelican Ram-X kayak covers (also known as kayak cockpit drapes) are designed to keep moisture and creepy-crawlies out of your kayak. They are great add-on accessories, available from retailers, particularly if you plan to store your kayak outdoors. Other popular Pelican Ram-X kayak parts include replacement Pelican Ram-X kayak drain plugs (a cheap accessory that’s essential to keep your kayak watertight) and upgraded Pelican Ram-X kayak seats. Seats include fishing-specific models and others that can be removed for use outside of the kayak—a great way to add comfort and versatility.
Pelican Ram-X kayak specs
The specs for Pelican kayaks made with Ram-X are comparable to other recreational kayaks, with sit-on-top models typically under 10 feet in length and the decked, sit-in models residing in the 8- to 10-foot range. These compact shapes help keep the weight of Ram-X kayaks relatively low and maximize stiffness in the hull to improve your paddling experience.
Weights for single Ram-X kayaks are generally under 50 pounds, with tandems tipping the scales at less than 70. Ram-X fishing kayaks weigh roughly the same, depending on accessories.
Pelican Ram-X kayaks strike a good balance between durability, function and price. Pelican Ram-X kayak prices are typically under $1,000, with the most basic, budget-friendly single-paddler models like the Pelican Argo 100X (sit-inside) and Pelican Sentinel 100X (sit-on-top) priced at $465 and $495, respectively. Prices for angler models range from $320 to $1,890, with many options in the $600 to $750 range.
Regardless of your body shape and size, you’ll easily find a Ram-X kayak that fits. Pelican Ram-X weight limits are typically around 275 pounds, with some larger single paddler models featuring maximum capacities of 300 pounds. The weight limit on tandem kayaks is approximately 500 pounds.
Where to buy
Pelican Ram-X boats are widely available through big-box retailers and large outdoor stores all across North America, including Costco. The great durability and longevity of Ram-X boats means you can often find great deals on used recreational canoes and kayaks on platforms such as Craigslist and Kijiji.
Kyle Parker spent the winter working two jobs and training to paddle across the United States. Image Courtesy Kyle Parker and @_thenorthernnerd_
On September 11, 2024 Kyle Parker set a speed record in solo canoeing the Wisconsin River, paddling the 430-mile river in just five days, 19 hours and 57 minutes. The record attempt itself was prompted in part by Parker’s desire to paddle the Wisconsin River in its entirety while working within the confines of his available time off from work.
For summer 2025, Parker quit his job to paddle across the continental United States from the northwesternmost point at Cape Flattery, Washington to the southeasternmost point at Miami, Florida. He departed on the journey in April, 2025.
Wisconsin river solo canoeing speed record holder to canoe across America
“I cruised through all of Wisconsin and didn’t really get a chance to experience the river,” Parker explained. “I didn’t get to take my time or do any fishing or meet people along the way.”
Kyle Parker spent the winter working two jobs and training to paddle across the United States. Image Courtesy Kyle Parker and @_thenorthernnerd_
Parker’s route will take him from the Salish Sea in Washington State up to the Columbia River, over the Continental Divide and onto the Missouri, Ohio, and Tennessee Rivers and eventually along the coast of Alabama and all the way to Florida. Approximately 250 of these miles before the Missouri River alone are portaging, including a 150-mile portage of the Continental Divide. Parker also shared that the route was just as influenced by where he wanted to fish along the way as it was influenced by topography and path of least resistance.
Before Parker left for the trip, a friend asked him if he thought America would feel bigger or smaller after paddling across the continent:
“That’s something I’m really interested in figuring out,” Parker shared. “I’m going to be traveling at three miles an hour, but at the end of the day after doing the whole thing it might feel like the United States is actually kind of small.”
Kyle Parker thinks you should quit your job to go paddle this summer
While Parker quit his job to paddle, he worked two jobs all winter to make the trip financially feasible before taking the leap into a canoe for the next few months.
“I kind of found my dream isn’t to work and live a normal life, at least right now,” Parker explained. “I want to see the world. I want to be out in the wild and doing whatever I want.”
Parker shared that while for the most part people are excited for him and encouraging of his mission, some have doubts.
“I’ve talked to some people that aren’t really paddlers and they’re like, that’s impossible,” said Parker. “For me, the people that are not encouraging are actually the ones encouraging me the most. I like it when people say ‘I don’t think you can do that’. Like, alright, we’ll see about that.”
Parker also shared that while some might see a trip like this as impossible, trips that require additional training and logistics might be more feasible than the average paddler realizes.
“I want to show people that it takes a little bit of planning and a little bit training and some hard work, but if you want something you can get it,” Parker shared. “You just have to start planning. That’s it. Figure out a route, figure out what you want to do and then just start, because I’ll put it this way, how do you eat an elephant? You eat it one bite at a time.”
Parker expects the journey to take six to eight months.
No motors? No problem! Feature Image: Maddy Marquardt
Registering your kayak can feel like an intimidating task, but we’re here to demystify kayak registration. From which states do and don’t require paddlecraft registration, to state-by-state specifics, here is how to register your kayak in every state:
If you live in these states, you don’t have to register your kayak:
In Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin you don’t have to register your kayak or canoe.
Paddle Sober And Smart
Never mix alcohol and paddling. Coast Guard and state BUI (boating under the influence) laws apply to all vessels. This includes canoes, kayaks, SUPs and rafts.
While you don’t have to register your kayak or canoe in the states above, you may still be required to pay any local launch use fees.
In Illinois and Arizona paddlecraft were previously required to be registered, but the requirement was repealed in 2018 and 2020 respectively.
When do you have to register your kayak?
Whether or not you have to register your kayak depends on the state you reside in, where you plan to paddle, the length of your kayak and whether or not you plan to add a motor or sail.
If you’re a short-term visitor to a state that requires registration, you often don’t have to register your kayak. Local launch permits and fees still apply.
Registration decals or stickers for paddlecraft should be affixed above the waterline. Image: Maddy Marquardt
Adding an electric trolling motor almost always means you need to register your kayak or canoe. Additionally, if a kayak or canoe is used for guiding services, rentals, or any commercial purpose you may be required to register your boat. Adding a sail to your kayak may also change requirements. In many states with registration requirements, kayaks under ten feet are not required to be registered.
Education: Get Some!
Take a paddling safety course from the American Canoe Association (ACA), your local paddling shop or outfitter, or other reputable source.
Take a boating safety course from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons® or your own state’s boating agency.
Take on-the-water skills training.
Why register your kayak:
Fees collected from kayak registration fund a number of public projects including boaters safety programs, maintenance of public waterways, and marine conservation. Registration can also help recover your boat in the event it is lost or stolen.
State-by-state registration and permit requirements
From Alabama to Wyoming, here is how to register your kayak state-by-state:
Alabama:
In Alabama you do not need to register your kayak or canoe unless it is motorized or you add a sail.
Alaska:
In Alaska you do not need to register paddlecraft unless it has a motor or is used as a fishing guide boat.
Arizona:
In Arizona you do not need to register your kayak or canoe unless it is motorized.
Arkansas:
In Arkansas you do not have to register your kayak or canoe unless it is motorized.
California:
In California you do not have to register paddlecraft including kayaks and canoes; if you add a motor then your kayak or canoe must be registered.
Colorado:
In Colorado canoes and kayaks without a motor do not need to be registered, but must be legibly marked with the owner’s name and address.
Connecticut:
In Connecticut you do not have to register your kayak or canoe unless it is motorized.
Delaware:
In Delaware you do not have to register your paddlecraft unless you add a motor.
Florida:
In Florida kayaks and canoes are not required to be registered so long as they do not have a motor.
Georgia:
Paddlecraft in Georgia are not required to be registered unless they are powered by a motor.
Hawaii:
In Hawaii kayaks and canoes do not require registration unless they have a motor of five horsepower or greater.
Idaho:
While canoes and kayaks are not required to be registered in Idaho, an Aquatic Invasive Species sticker is required; this requirement also applies to any watercraft visiting from out of state. The only watercraft exempt from this requirement are inflatable paddlecraft under 10 feet in length without a motor.
Idaho’s Aquatic Invasive Species Sticker affixed to a whitewater kayak. Image: Joe Potoczak
Illinois:
In Illinois unpowered watercraft including kayaks and canoes do not need to be registered.
Indiana:
In Indiana you do not have to register canoes and kayaks so long as they are not motorized.
Iowa:
In Iowa, kayaks and canoes that are longer than 13 feet and have no sail or motor are required to be registered. To register your kayak in Iowa you will need a bill of sale, the manufacturer’s certificate of origin and a registration fee. If purchasing a used boat, you will still need the boat’s registration and title to register the boat in your own name. Registrations are not transferable; even if the previous owner registered the boat, you will need to register the boat in your own name.
You have 30 days after a private sale to register your boat in Iowa; registration renewals can be processed with any county recorder office in Iowa.
Visiting boats have 60 days before they need to register their boats in Iowa. Registrations expire on April 30 of the current registration cycle. More information can be found in the Iowa Boat Registration Guide.
Kansas:
In Kansas vessels not powered by a motor including canoes and kayaks are not required to be registered.
Kentucky:
In Kentucky you do not have to register a kayak or canoe so long they are not motorized.
Louisiana:
In Louisiana you do not have to register a kayak or canoe so long as it is not motorized.
Maine:
In Maine you do not have to register a kayak or canoe so long as it is not motorized.
Maryland:
In Maryland you do not have to register a kayak or canoe so long as it is not motorized.
Massachusetts:
In Massachusetts non-motorized boats including kayaks and canoes do not need to be registered.
Michigan:
In Michigan, you do not need to register your kayak or canoe if it is under 20 feet in length and does not have a permanently affixed engine.
Minnesota:
In Minnesota, you will need to register your kayak or canoe if it is over 10 feet in length. If you are visiting from out of state, you do not need to register your canoe or kayak as long as it is not in Minnesota for more than 90 consecutive days. Register your kayak at the local deputy registrar of motor vehicles, or renew your registration online.
Looks like someone needs to renew their registration! Image: Andy Seaberg
When registering your boat you will need to know the boat’s length, manufacturer, hull material (plastic, fiberglass, wood), model, year, serial or hull identification number (HIN) and a present receipt of sale and a registration fee. Once registered, your registration is good for three calendar years from the time of registration. Your registration stickers should be placed on either side of the bow, or front, of your boat, high enough above the water to be seen while the boat is loaded.
Mississippi:
In Mississippi you do not have to register your kayak or canoe unless it is equipped with a motor.
Missouri:
In Missouri you do not have to register paddlecraft unless it is equipped with a motor.
Montana:
In Montana you do not have to register your kayak or canoe so long as it is not motorized.
In Nevada you do not have to register kayaks, canoes and non-motorized boats.
New Hampshire:
In New Hampshire kayaks and canoes are not required to be registered so long as they are human-powered and not powered by a motor.
New Jersey:
In New Jersey kayaks and canoes do not have to be registered as long as they do not have a motor.
New Mexico:
In New Mexico you do not have to register paddlecraft unless it is motorized.
New York:
In New York kayaks and canoes do not have to be registered so long as they are not motorized.
North Carolina:
In North Carolina kayaks and canoes that are propelled without a motor do not need to be registered.
North Dakota:
In North Dakota you do not have to register paddlecraft so long as it is not motorized.
Ohio:
In Ohio, registrations are required for every type of recreational boat, except paddleboards, kitboards, and floatubes. Registrations are good for three years and expire on March 1.
To register a kayak or canoe in Ohio, you will need proof of ownership, information about the boat including boat’s length, manufacturer, hull material (plastic, fiberglass, wood), model, year, serial or hull identification number (HIN), identification for yourself, and a registration fee. Cost of registration depends on the length of boat, which type of registration you are buying, and propulsion type.
New canoes and kayaks will need to be registered in person at the Boat Registration Agent or at a Watercraft Office; when purchasing and registering a used canoe or kayak you will also need to register in person.
Oklahoma:
In Oklahoma paddlecraft are not required to be registered unless they are powered by any other means than human power.
Oregon:
In Oregon, while kayaks, canoes and standup paddleboards do not have to be registered unless they are part of a commercial operation, you will need to purchase a Waterway Access Permit; options are available for one week, one year, and two year permits. Permits can be purchased online.
In Oregon, don’t forget your Oregon Waterway Access Permit! Image: Joe Potoczak
All kayaks and canoes in Oregon including nonresidents are required to purchase a Waterway Access Permit. One permit per paddler is required. Permits are transferable to other paddlecraft; children 13 and younger do not need a permit.
Funds from the Oregon waterway access permits support the unique needs of paddlers throughout the state including single car spaces, staging areas, and low-freeboard docks with safe launches, as well as support the development of new sites. These funds are distributed as boating facility grants to local and state governments, tribal governments and park organizations, and available to nonprofits and public bodies to develop safety programming or purchase equipment to reduce barriers for underserved communities.
A waterway access permit is also required for coastal paddlers; Oregon waters are defined as up to from three miles out from the shoreline.
Pennsylvania:
Paddlecraft including standup paddleboards must be registered in Pennsylvania OR display a Fish and Boat Commission launch permit or Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests launch permit; both are not required.
There are several benefits to registering your paddlecraft in Pennsylvania instead of purchasing a launch permit. While cost of registration and permits are the same, registering your kayak, canoe or standup paddleboard comes with renewal reminders, the registration is recognized in other states, the funds go to increase federal funding for Pennsylvania boating programs, and the data stored from your registration can be useful in recovering a lost or stolen kayak, canoe or standup paddleboard.
Kayaks and canoes longer than 12 feet are required to be registered in Rhode Island, and kayaks and canoes longer than 14 feet are required to be titled in addition to registered. Even if you do not live in Rhode Island but Rhode Island is the primary place of use for your kayak or canoe, you must register your kayak or canoe in Rhode Island.
To register your kayak or canoe in Rhode Island, you will need a proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, a manufacturer’s statement of origin, a Boat Registration Application and fee, Application for Initial Vessel Certificate of Title (RIGL), and a pencil tracing of Hull identification number (HIN).
To register a homemade boat in Rhode Island, you will need copies of receipts for all materials including sales tax, a photo of your finished boat, a notarized statement including a full description of the boat, cost of all materials and construction plans and a boat inspection through DEM Division of Law Enforcement.
Registration cost varies depending on boat length. Registrations are valid for two years and begin in March and expire on the last day of February. Registrations are done through the Rhode Island Outdoors application portal.
South Carolina:
In South Carolina you do not have to register paddlecraft so long as they are human-powered and do not have a motor attached.
South Dakota:
All kayaks and canoes in South Dakota over 12 feet in length must be registered. Apply for Boat and Title Registration through the South Dakota Department of Revenue. Registration lasts one year and cost depends on the size of boat and type of propulsion. Additionally, if over 18 feet long your canoe or kayak will need an identification number placed on the boat.
To register your kayak or canoe in South Dakota you will need proof of ownership or a bill of sale, title (if applicable), previous registration or manufacturer’s certificate of origin, and a registration fee. Registration can be done in person at your local county treasurer’s office.
If your paddlecraft is registered in another state, you have 60 days before registration in South Dakota is required.
Tennessee:
In Tennessee kayaks and canoes do not need to be registered unless it is powered by a motor.
Texas:
In Texas kayaks and canoes under 14 feet in length without a motor are not required to be registered.
If a kayak has a motor or is longer than 14 feet, you will need to register your kayak. To register your kayak or canoe in Texas you will need a bill of sale, a valid US identification, boat forms and a registration fee.
Utah:
In Utah, canoes and kayaks do not need to be registered; however all boaters in Utah regardless of residency status are required to take the annual Utah mussel-aware boater course and have proof of course completion with them. This includes canoes, kayaks and standup paddleboarders.
Vermont:
In Vermont kayaks and canoes do not require registration so long as they do not have a motor attached.
Virginia:
In Virginia kayaks and canoes do not require registration if they are not motorized and under 18 feet long. If your kayak or canoe is longer than 18 feet you will need to register your kayak or canoe via this form from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
No motors? No problem! Feature Image: Maddy Marquardt
Washington:
In Washington kayaks and canoes not powered by a motor or sail are not required to be registered.
West Virginia:
In West Virginia kayaks and canoes are not required to be registered unless they have a motor.
Wisconsin:
In Wisconsin you do not have to register paddlecraft as long as it does not have a motor.
Wyoming:
Paddlecraft in Wyoming do not need to be registered, but all watercraft including paddlecraft are required to display an Aquatic Invasive Species decal. This requirement applies to all watercraft in Wyoming waters, and includes any watercraft paddling Wyoming waters for any length of time. Standup paddleboards are defined as watersport toys and exempt from the decal requirements.
The updated women's Helix drysuit from Mustang Survival. Feature Image: Brenna Kelly
The recently updated Helix drysuit initially made a splash when it debuted in 2021 with its non-latex adjustable neck gaskets. In its newest iteration, updates focused on increased durability and comfort.
Reviewing the updated women’s Helix drysuit from Mustang Survival
The new iteration of the Helix sought to remove excess bulk for a more comfortable and streamlined fit; those efforts shone through in both the fit and breathability of the drysuit. The zipper placement is especially thoughtful, both out of the way of kayak backbands and convenient for being able to relieve yourself on the go without removing the whole drysuit.
I would recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes for the Helix. Typically I wear a medium but sometimes venture into a large due to shoulder width. In the future I would upsize to a large because it was a bit of a contortion to put my arm through.Throughout my career as a whitewater teacher and coach, I’ve experienced shoulder injuries on the water and in that situation it’s really horrible to get your arm out of a too tight drysuit.
Overall, the Helix is very waterproof and has a unique neck gasket style in the latex-free Closed Comfort System (CCS) neck seal which basically serves as an adjustable neck gasket. This can be a really cool feature for paddlers who have struggled with the pressure of tight neck gaskets, offering those paddlers a more comfortable option. If you prefer flat water and staying upright this suit will be the comfort you are looking for and will keep you warm and dry if you do so happen to end up in a more intimate setting with the water you were meant to be paddling on top of.
Features on the updated Mustang Survival Helix
The new updates to the Helix were, quite literally, lab-tested from the fabric options to seamline placement.
Notable features of the updated Helix include an easy access leg pocket, and good abrasion resistance on the knees and butt. Knee pads are removable from the outside of the drysuit; this with the CCS neck gasket closure and relief-friendly placement of the zipper make the Helix drysuit a good fit for long days on the water and expedition-style trips.
Other features of the Helix include durable 3-layer MarineSpec BP fabric designed to be abrasion, saltwater, and UV resistant, trimmable neoprene wrist seals, collar and cuffs designed with easy repair in mind, and an internal suspender system to keep the suit in place, which I thought was handy and stylish!
The Intex Challenger K1 is a user-friendly inflatable kayak that’s easy to paddle and easy to store in small spaces. It’s also among the cheapest kayaks on the market, making it a good choice for those wishing to try kayaking without making an investment in a boat or a place to store it.
The Intex Challenger K1 kayak is sold with an aluminum paddle. The design features of this inflatable kayak make it suited to paddling on calm lakes and meandering rivers. The Challenger K1 is a single-person kayak; check out the Intex Challenger K2 if you wish to paddle with a partner.
This Intex Challenger K1 kayak review will cover the boat’s main features, along with its strengths and weaknesses.
On the water performance
Intex Challenger K1 Specs
Length: 9’0” / 2.72 m
Width: 30” / 76 cm
Weight: 28 lbs / 13 kg
Capacity: 220 lbs / 100 kg
MSRP: $95 USD
The Intex Challenger K1 performs like other inflatable kayaks: It’s sluggish compared to a hardshell kayak, but it’s extremely stable. With an overall length of 9 feet, the Challenger K1 is easy to maneuver. Like other short kayaks, however, it’s slow and takes some effort to paddle in a straight line.
The Intex Challenger K1 has a modest maximum weight capacity of 220 pounds. Larger paddlers are best to scale up to the Intex Challenger K2, which has a 400-pound weight capacity and can be configured for single or tandem kayaking.
Who should paddle this kayak?
The Intex Challenger K1 is a general-purpose, budget-priced inflatable kayak for beginners. It’s best for recreational paddlers who are looking to have fun on the water for an hour or two at a time. If you’re looking to develop your skills or spend more time in the kayak, look at a higher-performance inflatable kayak or the best kayaks to meet your needs. The Challenger is versatile and can be used for many applications—just bear in mind that this cheap inflatable kayak will never match the performance and comfort of more expensive boats.
One of the most popular applications of the Intex Challenger K1 is kayak fishing. This 9-foot inflatable kayak is stable and nimble, and provides anglers with access to the shallowest backwaters. Given its bargain price, don’t expect the Challenger K1 to come with the bells and whistles of a dedicated fishing kayak.
Protected shores and inland lakes are best for the Intex Challenger K1; sea kayaking with this model is not advised. The Challenger K1 simply doesn’t have the depth to handle ocean waves and is difficult to paddle in strong winds, so stick to sheltered bodies of water.
Though it may look like a miniature whitewater raft, Intex Challenger K1 kayak whitewater performance is limited to easy swifts and rapids. It’s a small kayak with a shallow depth, so it can be a wet ride in waves and chop, as well as more difficult to handle in currents and less durable than a dedicated whitewater kayak.
Where to buy the Intex Challenger K1
This bargain-priced kayak is available online and in various big-box stores, including Walmart and The Home Depot. Amazon’s Intex Challenger K1 prices are among the best you’ll find, in close competition with Walmart. These kayaks can also be found on eBay.
The Intex Challenger K1 kayak is essentially a kayak-shaped rubber raft, like the type you will find at discount prices at any big-box department store. It has two large air chambers running the perimeter of the boat and a flat bottom made up of smaller tubes (known as “I-beams”).
The Intex Challenger K1 has minimal rocker, or upsweep from bow to stern, because its air construction causes the hull to take on the shape of the water it floats upon. This is a great attribute for stability, but far less desirable if you’re interested in paddling for longer distances. A removable skeg (or fin, which attaches to the stern of the kayak) aids in traveling in a straight line.
The large, open cockpit of the Intex Challenger K1 kayak is easy to enter and exit, and combined with the boat’s exceptional stability, makes this model ideal for first-time paddlers. Along with the boat’s shallow depth, an open cockpit increases the risk of swamping in rough water. The Challenger K1 should only be used in sheltered, calm conditions.
Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature
Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.
Material and construction
The Intex Challenger K1 kayak is constructed of vinyl plastic with welded seams. This construction is quite durable and resistant to impacts with blunt objects and abrasions. Inflatable kayaks like the Challenger K1 aren’t as stiff as hardshell kayaks, which allows it to flex in the water, which is less efficient to paddle.
The vinyl hull can be damaged by punctures, so it’s important to be careful with sharp fishing hooks and cutting tools around the kayak. Holes are easy to patch using contact adhesive—a repair patch kit is included. Cheap kayaks like the Challenger K1 don’t have the same UV-resistant qualities of more expensive boats, and therefore should be stored out of the sun.
Intex Challenger K1 outfitting
Comfort is king amongst recreational paddlers. The Intex Challenger K1 kayak inflatable seat offers air-ride comfort and adjustable back support that wraps around your sides (a high-back PFD is recommended for a more comfortable fit).
The Intex Challenger K1 skeg is a key accessory; this removable fin attaches to the stern of the kayak to improve tracking to make it easier to paddle in a straight line. A convenient mesh cargo area provides plenty of storage on the front deck for items like water bottles, waterproof cameras and snacks. You’ll also find grab lines on the bow and stern of the Challenger K1 kayak for carrying the boat with a partner to and from the water.
Intex Challenger K1 mods
The Intex Challenger K1 kayak is a budget-friendly platform for angling. But to fit your needs, you’ll want to make some Intex Challenger K1 kayak fishing mods. There are many options for upgrades, including adding rod holders, action camera mounts and installing tackle and drink holders.
Make sure your Intex Challenger K1 modifications don’t impede your ability to enter or exit the kayak. Similarly, avoid modifications that may make the kayak more difficult to handle in wind and waves. Test out any modifications on dry land and critically assess how the changes will affect the kayak’s safety and performance.
Wear A Life Jacket
Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.
Intex Challenger K1 kayak assembly
Intex Challenger K1 kayak inflation is easy and takes a typical paddler less than 10 minutes. The boat features two one-way Boston valves, one to inflate the hull and the other for the deck. The seat inflates with two smaller valves, which must be sealed quickly to keep air from escaping.
An inflatable foot rest is slid into the bow of the kayak to brace your feet. Intex Challenger K1 kayak skeg removal and installation is easy; simply slide the plastic fin into the track on the stern of the kayak.
After a day on the water, you may ask: how to collapse my Intex Challenger K1 kayak? The process is easy—just open up the valves to deflate. Make sure you rinse your kayak and allow it to dry thoroughly before long-term storage.
How it compares
Intex Challenger K1 vs K2
The Challenger K2 is a larger kayak with capacity for two paddlers. It has the same outfitting and accessories as the K1. The main difference with the Challenger K2 is that it can be paddled with a partner or solo (a good option for larger, heavier people), making it far more versatile than the Challenger K1.
The Challenger K2 is faster and tracks better than the K1, however it’s also more difficult to handle in wind—especially for smaller solo paddlers. Choose the Challenger K1 if you’re a smaller or average-sized paddler (under 6 feet and 200 pounds) and if you have no intentions of paddling with a partner. The K2 is a great choice if you’re larger or if you’d like the option of paddling a tandem inflatable kayak.
Intex Challenger K1 2013 vs 2019
There have been only a few changes to the Challenger K1 kayak since 2013. The most obvious change is the deck graphics. The older 2013 model also featured a two-piece seat, as opposed to the one-piece seat in the 2019 (and current) version. The older seat tended to sit lower to the bottom of the kayak. Performance of the two boats is virtually identical.
Paddle Sober And Smart
Never mix alcohol and paddling. Coast Guard and state BUI (boating under the influence) laws apply to all vessels. This includes canoes, kayaks, SUPs and rafts.
Challenger K1 pros and cons
Pros
Price: The Intex Challenger K1 is one of the cheapest kayaks you’ll find, often available for under $100 US.
Portability: The Intex Challenger K1 kayak rolls up and fits in a large gym bag, even with paddles, and weighs under 30 pounds.
Easy set up: The Intex Challenger K1 kayak goes from bag to the water in less than 10 minutes. Take down is even faster.
Super stable: The Intex Challenger K1 kayak is wide and features a flat bottom for ultimate stability. Its large cockpit is also easy to enter and exit.
Beginner friendly: You don’t need any paddling experience to get out on calm, sheltered water in the Intex Challenger K1, whether you’re looking for a quick outing or an angler looking to try kayak fishing.
Cons
Limited seaworthiness: While the inflatable Intex Challenger K1 kayak won’t sink, its large cockpit and low profile allows waves to enter the boat. This design is meant for use on flatwater lakes and gentle rivers only.
Slow and sluggish: The inflatable hull flexes and doesn’t cut through the water smoothly. Combined with a short 9-foot length, the Intex Challenger K1 kayak won’t win any races and is difficult to paddle for long distances.
Difficult to handle in the wind: The Intex Challenger K1 is small and light and tends to get blown around by the wind, especially for beginners.
The Intex Challenger K1 is a kayak you can kick back and relax in. | Feature photo: Courtesy Intex
Nerys Bethan Lloyd was sentenced to ten years and six months in prison for manslaughter after leading four people to their deaths in a paddleboarding incident involving a weir on the River Cleddau in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Lloyd pleaded guilty on four counts of gross negligence manslaughter and failure to discharge her duty.
Paddleboard tragedy on the River Cleddau
The tragedy occurred on October 30, 2021 when Lloyd, as both a paddleboard guide and owner of Salty Dog paddleboard outfitter, led a group towards the weir without any instruction of how to avoid the churning waters and recirculating currents below, nor any warning of potential hazards.
Conditions on the River Cleddau the day of the incident included higher flow rates and near-flood conditions after heavy rains. Over the three days preceding the incident over 50 millimeters (nearly two inches) of rain had fallen and weather warnings had been in place, including a high risk flooding alert issued by National Resources Wales two days before the incident — a warning that remained in place the day of the incident according to the sentencing remarks read on Tuesday April 25, 2025.
Andrea Powell, Morgan Rogers, and Nicola Wheatley, all beginner paddleboarders and customers, drowned as well as Paul O’Dwyer, Lloyd’s co-guide. Paul died jumping back into the water in an attempt to save others.
Surviving the incident were Gemma Cox, Melody Johns, Ceri O’Dwyer and Jemma Dugdale.
Paddleboarders in tragic accident expected a beginner-friendly trip
The paddleboard trip was meant to last four hours and be a scenic, beginner-friendly paddle down the River Cleddau. In a group chat before the trip, Lloyd and Paul assuaged the fears of concerned participants, assuring them how easy and manageable the trip would be.
Paddleboard guide Nerys Bethan Lloyd imprisoned after leading four to their deaths on River Cleddau in Wales. Feature Image: ITV News | YouTube
Four of the paddlers were not wearing wetsuits and one decided not to wear a life jacket. There was no safety briefing before the trip began; no emergency or next of kin details were collected. Additionally, there was no discussion of the existence or hazards of the weir before the paddle, nor was the tidal nature of the river mentioned. Both Lloyd and Paul knew about the weir and its potential hazard, but had not checked on conditions or water levels in several days.
The incident occurred one hour after low tide, making for a 1.3 meter (over four foot) drop over the weir. Moreover, the weir was not visible to the beginner paddlers from the angle of approach taken; only Lloyd and Paul O’Dwyer knew it laid immediately ahead.
Paddleboard guide made little attempt to warn beginners of dangerous weir
The CCTV footage of the incident was ruled too distressing to be shown in court, but court readings state that upon approach to the weir Lloyd made no visible attempt to investigate the portage steps around the dangerous feature, which were partially obscured by high water levels. Survivor Ceri O’Dwyer’s statement records that Lloyd did shout for the others to hang back while Lloyd went down a narrow fish ramp in the middle of the weir.
There was no instruction given to the new paddlers to head for the fish ramp themselves, and the fish ramp was invisible to them. Only Ceri had heard Lloyd’s instructions and tried to repeat them. According to the sentencing statements, “without knowing about the fish ramp and how to deal with it your instructions were vague and meaningless and could not have been acted upon because of the flow and strength of the current.”
Lloyd did try to paddle back towards the others as they came off the weir but could not make progress against the current.
The group went over the weir and was sucked into its hydraulic—a recirculating current that will hold paddlers, boats, or debris in a washing-machine-like cycle underwater—created by the low head dam character. Dams and weirs often have currents like this beneath them and are nicknamed “drowning machines”.
Also notable was the use of ankle leashes attached to the paddleboards instead of quick-release waist leashes. Ankle leashes are more difficult to reach to free yourself of the board, which is also being recirculated by the hydraulic.
Paddleboard guide responsible for the death of four told police she “saw stars in the sky” that day
Neither Lloyd nor Paul had taken courses to qualify them to instruct standup paddleboard activities on rivers with current; courses they had taken however covered risk management, health and safety duties, and the need for attention to the water.
In a conversation with her wife shortly after the incident, Lloyd admitted that the incident was her fault and that she should not have gone on the water that day. Meanwhile, Lloyd’s initial account to police suggested she attempted to lead the beginner paddleboarders on her tour down the fish slide in the middle, and blamed Paul for the incident.
Lloyd also told police that health and safety talks and checks had been conducted before the trip, participants were at an intermediate level, and Lloyd and Paul had checked on river conditions that morning and were happy with conditions on the river and the capabilities of the paddlers.
Lloyd was arrested a week later upon not providing answers to police questions; instead only providing a prepared statement in which Lloyd stated she “saw the stars in the sky and that there was no wind in the early morning of 30 October.”
Lloyd later went on to claim that she was suddenly sucked into the weir system herself while attempting to investigate the portage steps as an option; the account was rejected as inconsistent with CCTV evidence and survivor accounts.
Paddleboard guide takes full blame for the death of four on tour
In an August 2022 statement, Lloyd went on to place blame on Paul, who Lloyd claimed was meant to undertake all the risk assessments and safety briefings. In the same interview, Lloyd also denied instructing Ceri to follow her down the middle of the weir.
Additionally, it was found that Paul researched alternate routes to avoid the weir. Paul cited concerns, including the increased drop over the weir at low tide—concerns which were rejected by Lloyd. As Lloyd was the owner of the company, Paul deferred to her.
Lloyd pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity.
“Being sorry for what happened is different from remorse,” Justice Mary Stacey said upon the sentencing, citing Lloyd’s disproportionate blame placed upon Paul, her employee who raised concerns about the route initially then lost his life trying to rescue others.
At the trial’s conclusion Lloyd took full blame for the incident according to a statement read by her defense lawyer.
Buying a used paddleboard can save you a bundle of cash on retail markup and taxes. For the price of a new, entry-level plastic paddleboard, you can buy a pre-owned top-quality composite or inflatable board that will be a pleasure to paddle for years. Costly accessories are often thrown in. But all sales are final and there are no guarantees, so consider these tips before you buy.
The Ultimate Guide To Buying A Used Paddleboard
Where to find used paddleboards
When it comes to where to buy a used paddleboard, you’ll want to find a reputable shop or online source specializing in paddling. Some shops and clubs host gear swaps or maintain their own online classifieds. Shops may have previous season’s clearance boards and demos for sale at used prices.
Ask local SUP outfitters and schools if they ever renew their rental fleet. Visit Paddle Monster for the most extensive listing of used boards from across North America.
How to choose a paddleboard
Research what kind of paddleboard is right for you. To novices, a board is a board. But there are a lot of different types of paddleboards and differences between recreation, touring and surfing designs, with dimensions for different sizes of paddlers.
Unless you’re planning to do at least some actual surfing, the ubiquitous all-arounders you see in SUV and tourism ads are not ideal, according to expert Steve Martin, who sells a lot of used boards in monthly gear swaps at his Boardsports shop in Toronto, Ontario.
Most generalists are better off on a pointy-nosed recreational touring board or even a race board if you’re athletic, which are lightweight, fast and often steeply discounted because racers are compulsive upgraders. If you’re a small paddler, now’s a good time to get a deal on a 12.5-foot race board, because a lot of racers are switching to 14-footers.
Use the savings of buying used to upgrade to a lightweight, higher-performance board, such as one made of fiberglass or carbon with a foam core. It’ll cost about the same price as a new plastic board from a big box retailer.
Best paddleboard brands
Top-brand boards are built to last and worth a premium; they’ll have durable composite construction to endure abuse and contain closed-cell foam that absorbs less water when damaged.
Boards from Thai and Vietnamese factories have good reputations; some from China, not so much. Notably, Cobra International in Chonburi, Thailand, is known for crafting high-quality boards for the brands Starboard, Naish and Fanatic, among others.
Final sales only. | Feature photo: James Ingram
Try before you buy
Test paddle as many boards as you can from friends, outfitters or demo events. It’s smart but logistically challenging to test the board you’re actually buying since you’ll most likely be looking at it in the seller’s front yard. If you already know how the board performs, you’ll be ready to commit before another buyer beats you to it.
Questions to ask when buying a used paddleboard
Don’t make the mistake of driving two hours to pick up a used standup paddleboard that’s not the length you wanted. Look for online ads including photos and complete specs for length, width and volume—or ask for them. Ask how old the board is, if there’s any damage, how and where it’s been stored, and what accessories are included.
“You want to deal with someone who paddles,” says John Beausang, who has been listing used boards for a decade as the publisher of The Mullet (now Paddle Monster). “Ask them if they paddle, where they paddle, why they want to sell. That will knock out a ton of people who you wouldn’t want to have a transaction with. The better educated the buyer and seller are, the better exchange of value and the less likely they are a scammer.”
Meet in person
“Dealing face-to-face will avoid 99 percent of scam attempts,” says Beausang. “Unless you know them, don’t go to meet sellers or buyers alone. Meet in a public place, preferably one with grass and not in a parking lot where they can drop the board. Do not pay anyone who can’t meet you in person. Beware of offers involving shipping. Anyone who wants to wire funds is sketchy. Run away.”
Always check for damage
The first thing you should do, according to Martin, is lift a board up. “If it’s heavy and waterlogged, then it’s not worth it.” Dings on a composite board are easily repaired with fiberglass and epoxy at home or by a shop, as long as the board hasn’t absorbed water. Damage can actually be your best friend.
Not only will it lower the resale value of the board—without necessarily harming performance—but it can also reveal a lot about the board’s durability. Some boards easily crack and chip and develop mushy spots while others endure wear and tear. Focus on the forward rails where the paddle rubs as well as any sharp ends or corners. You can tell if a ding has breached the shell by “kissing” and blowing air into it.
Note the holes in this foam paddleboard? If the SUP you’re looking at looks like this, you might want to pass! Image: Maddy Marquardt
Look for a deck pad that’s in good shape and not coming unglued; these are hard to repair because the old one has to be removed first. Check that the fin is straight. A crooked fin can reveal internal damage to the fin box, which is tough to fix. Check out how the board has been stored—indoors? On a rack? In a bag?—as an indication of how it’s been cared for.
Observe any stickers or tape slapped on as hasty repairs or to conceal damage. Make sure drain screws and fin screws are present and secure. If it’s an inflatable board, inspect the seams and welds. Fully inflate the board and take it to the water or wait a couple of hours to check for pinhole leaks.
Don’t forget accessories
Remember to budget for accessories, which can add a lot of value. A savvy seller will keep their accessories, but if they’re getting out of the sport they may throw in a PFD, paddle and leash. Always ask if any of these can be included in the deal. Ditto for a storage bag, which can run $150 to $300 or more new.
Never skimp on the paddle, which is at least as important as the board. “If you’re saving money on the board, get a better paddle, a carbon paddle,” says Martin. “I’d rather be on a crappy board with a good paddle than be on the best board with a crappy paddle.”
How much do used paddleboards cost
You’ve done your research, so you should know the market value going in. Less experienced sellers are more likely to overvalue their boards. So, how much are used paddleboards? The markdown on a used board should be significant. Martin suggests 50 percent of MSRP as a guideline for a board that’s being sold final sale without a warranty, even if it’s brand new, “like a car as soon as you drive it off the lot.”
Used prices should drop from there. $600 or more is typical for a composite recreational board, or $1,500–$2,000 for a great deal on a lightly used carbon race board. Don’t be afraid to haggle for a fair price, but be nice. You’re probably saving enough that you don’t need to scrabble for an extra $50.
Maintain good vibes
Remember the paddling community is small. Both sides should feel it’s a fair deal, not least because you may run into each other on the water.
“Use the transaction as a way to connect to other paddlers,” advises Beausang. “You’d be surprised how many friends I have that started from selling or loaning them a board. Also, many boards are like family members to the owners. They will want to sell them, but also knowing they are going to a good home makes a difference. Knowing the boards will get on the water, where they belong, makes a difference.”
Feature photo: Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau
Whether you’re seeking solitude in Southwest Florida’s wild landscapes or craving a lively day on the water, the Great Calusa Blueway paddling trail offers the best of both worlds. This 190-mile trail winds through mangrove tunnels, past pristine beaches, and down historic rivers, and even allows for stops at resorts and restaurants along the way.
The Great Calusa Blueway explores Estero Bay, Pine Island Sound, the Caloosahatchee River and each of the connecting bodies of water in between. Most paddlers simply enjoy a day trip or even a few hours on one of these stunning sections of the water trail. And while the weaving and looping blueway isn’t specifically designed as a thru-paddle, the abundant boat launches, marinas, town centers and campgrounds provide the possibility of planning multi-day trips to cover as much of the Southwest Florida region as you can handle. If this bird’s-eye-view hasn’t convinced you yet, let me share a few unique reasons why your next trip should be to this subtropical paddling trail.
Why every paddler should visit the Calusa Blueway
Rich history
The Great Calusa Blueway honors the legacy of the Calusa, a seafaring Native American tribe that thrived in Southwest Florida for centuries. Although the Calusa civilization ended around 1750, their presence is still felt today.
Photo: Mike Hammond / Lee County Parks
“The real reason to paddle the Calusa Blueway is the immediate connection you feel to history and nature,” says Mike Hammond, Calusa Blueway Coordinator for Lee County Parks & Recreation.
One of the three sections of the blueway follows the Caloosahatchee River, named after the Calusa, while another passes by Mound Key, believed to be their cultural hub. Along the way, visitors can collect shells, just like the Calusa, who were known as the “Shell Indians” and are considered Florida’s first shell collectors.
Diverse waterways
Established in 2002, the Great Calusa Blueway spans over 190 miles and has three distinct sections: Estero Bay, Pine Island Sound, and the Caloosahatchee River. Each section immerses paddlers in Florida’s natural beauty, history, and culture.
The Estero Bay section includes Koreshan State Park, where paddlers can stop to explore historic pioneer buildings and a preserved bamboo forest. You can also bury your feet in the sugar-sand beaches of Lovers Key State Park and land within the hustle and bustle of Fort Myers Beach—with easy access to waterfront dining.
For those seeking more remote adventures, the Pine Island Sound section offers seclusion amidst mangrove islands and tunnels teeming with wildlife. “You’re literally in a tunnel where little mangrove crabs are above you, fish are swimming underneath, and birds are squawking,” Hammond divulges.
The Caloosahatchee River is the latest addition to the blueway. Here you’ll float beneath moss-draped oak trees and leather ferns lining the shoreline, with side quest opportunities to wander back quiet offshoots and creeks.
Photo: Mike Hammond / Lee County Parks
Stunning beaches
From the lively shores of Fort Myers Beach to the remote beauty of Cayo Costa State Park, paddlers along the blueway have their pick of beaches, even during peak tourist season. “There are some islands and beaches so isolated, you can have them all to yourself, even during the busiest times,” shares Hammond.
One of Hammond’s personal favorites is Bunche Beach Preserve. With over 700 acres of unspoiled land, visitors can enjoy a peaceful paddle through dense mangrove forests and spot wildlife while gliding through salt flats.
Bunche Beach also offers a perfect spot to witness stunning sunsets over San Carlos Bay and nearby Sanibel Island—an unforgettable experience accessible to paddlers of all skill levels.
Photo: Mike Hammond / Lee County Parks
Photo: Mike Hammond / Lee County Parks
Photo: Mike Hammond / Lee County Parks
Up-close wildlife encounters
There is no shortage of wildlife to observe along the Great Calusa Blueway. You may see dolphins splashing while hunting for fish, alligators basking on riverbanks, or manatees gliding through the waters of Estero Bay. For birdwatchers, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island is home to a diverse range of species, including white pelicans in the winter months, whose wingspans reaching up to nine feet are captivating.
Hammond recommends guided tours for paddlers unfamiliar with Florida’s wildlife etiquette. That way, you’ll have a chance to learn from locals about how to safely navigate encounters with manatees, alligators, and other wildlife before exploring on your own. Information on guided tours is easily available through the blueway’s website.
Photo: Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau
Challenging advanced stretches
For experienced paddlers seeking a more advanced adventure, the five-mile crossing from the Pine Island canoe and kayak launch to the historic Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant offers a challenging trip with a worthy reward. Some say Jimmy Buffet’s song “Cheeseburger in Paradise” was inspired by the burgers there. The restaurant, known for its laid-back atmosphere, serves fresh seasonal seafood and, of course, cheeseburgers to salivating paddlers year-round.
Another rewarding trip for experienced kayakers is the journey from Pine Island to Cayo Costa State Park. Cayo Costa offers miles of undeveloped shorelines perfect for snorkeling, shelling, fishing and camping at the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. Despite Hurricane Ian’s impact in 2022, the park remains a must-visit destination for those with a sense of adventure.
Photo: Jason Boeckman
Photo: Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau
Extensive resources available
The Calusa Blueway has maps, trips ideas and answers to frequently asked questions online. For example, understanding the lightning storms that can move in fast for an unsuspecting visitor. “Our main focus is watching the weather,” says Hammond. “While some worry about wildlife, weather changes quickly in Florida.”
Hammond also encourages checking the tide charts that are linked on blueway’s website before hitting the water. Tidal changes can create strong currents, particularly in passes, so it’s important to be prepared.
Photo: Mike Hammond / Lee County Parks
Recovery and resilience after Hurricane Ian
In September of 2022, Hurricane Ian made landfall as a Category 4 storm near Cayo Costa. The storm caused $112.9 billion in total damages, with Southwest Florida being one of the hardest-hit regions. The road to recovery has been long, but the paddling community came together to rebuild and help restore the area’s waterways. In fact, cleanups began soon after the storm, and efforts continue to this day.
Hammond has witnessed remarkable progress over the past two years and is excited to welcome paddlers from across the country—and the world—to experience the magic of the blueway.
“It’s such an adventure, but anyone can have it. You can hop in just a few miles from your hotel or resort and feel like you’re in an episode of National Geographic.”
Stefi and Claudia van Wijk outside Madawaska Kanu Centre, based in Ontario’s Ottawa Valley. | Feature photo: Courtesy Madawaska Kanu Centre
At 20, a chronic shoulder injury and some disillusionment with guiding culture brought Stefi van Wijk back to her family’s kayak school, the Madawaska Kanu Centre. The injury kept her from teaching, so she found other ways to help. Soon she was assisting her mom Claudia Kerckhoff van Wijk with the business side of the iconic kayak school in Ontario’s Ottawa Valley.
“I learned a lot that winter,” Stefi recalls, adding that administration in the outdoor industry should be no one’s idea of a backup plan. Still, she says, “It’s a very powerful role, and we are sort of plagued in the outdoors with weak admin.”
A few years later, Stefi decided to approach her mom about a lasting role at MKC. Claudia remembers the conversation vividly. “She came to me one day and said, ‘This is my future. I’m going to run MKC,’” Claudia recalls. Her daughter was adamant her values aligned perfectly with the kayak school, and that she could make a difference.
How this family paddling school navigated an existential transition
Claudia Kerckhoff van Wijk is a legendary figure in modern kayak instruction. She was 10 years old in 1972, when her father and mother Hermann and Christa Kerckhoff opened the family’s Kanu Centre on the Madawaska River in Ontario, one of the first schools of its kind in the world. Claudia grew up at MKC and took over ownership of the business with her husband Dirk van Wijk in 1988, when she was 26. Claudia directed the school for decades, building its reputation as one of the most renowned paddling institutions in the world. By 2016 she had begun to think about her exit strategy. She just didn’t expect it would come in the person of her youngest daughter.
Stefi and Claudia van Wijk outside Madawaska Kanu Centre, based in Ontario’s Ottawa Valley. | Feature photo: Courtesy Madawaska Kanu Centre
Stefi grew up paddling and teaching at MKC, just as her mother had. By 13 she was already teaching youth classes, and as she grew older she developed her own vision of what kayak instruction could be. After largely stepping away to guide wilderness expeditions for companies including Black Feather, Stefi was home at MKC full-time, preparing to become the next director. There was just one issue as she took the reins of the storied school—the dynamic with the boss, her mom.
“There were so many places where she was really open to my contribution and my efforts and my ideas, and a few things where she was not,” Stefi says. “We’re very similar. We’re both very stubborn and would come up against each other.”
Adds Claudia, “She was scared I wouldn’t let go, and I told her, ‘You’re right. I don’t know how. I’ve never done this before.’”
For the sake of their mother-daughter relationship and the future of the business, the next step they took was one you would expect at a Fortune 500 company, not an outdoor school. They brought in outside help to assist in the transition. Through a friend, Claudia found executive coach Katie Baker.
An outside perspective
Executive coaches develop business leaders’ abilities and often consult about structural changes, including transition plans. These services aren’t exclusive to the C-suites of big city towers, but they are big business—according to a 2023 Economist article, executive coaching is a $2 billion industry in the U.S.
The van Wijks were taken by Baker’s background and expertise. The consultant grew up in a small town, spent a lot of time outdoors, and worked with small businesses such as family farms.
“In a family-run business, these are relationships we can’t just walk away from. So the dynamic really changes, and I think what people find is it can be a very lonely place,” Baker says. “Having someone who is a neutral third party, not in the weeds emotionally with all the things that are going on, can be incredibly helpful.”
Baker says transition planning involves plenty of work with bankers and lawyers, but it’s important not to overlook the human side of the coin. “It’s being willing to sit down and have sometimes very difficult conversations,” Baker says. “That takes a certain amount of bravery.”
Stefi van Wijk at home on the Ottawa. | Photo: Courtesy Stefi van Wijk
All in the family: The Kerckhoff – van Wijk clan from left: Claudia, Katrina, Stefi and Dirk. | Photo: Courtesy Madawaska Kanu Centre
Early on, the work with the mother-daughter team included learning to work together, setting boundaries, and communicating under tension. Claudia referred to these sessions as coaching. Stefi called them therapy.
During this process, the two made a list of management responsibilities and a transition plan. Over time, responsibilities would be removed from the director of three decades’ list and placed on the incoming director’s list, until the only designated responsibility left for Claudia would be MKC’s treasured garden.
The process allowed Claudia to gradually step back and see the unique abilities her daughter brings to the business.
“Stefi empowers her team. She puts effort into her team and hears their feedback,” says Claudia, who also credits her daughter with bringing a next-generation perspective to the school. “She turned our slogan around from ‘Rapid education’ to ‘Learn from the river with the river.’ It’s a different approach but similar. Nature and water are amazing in helping people find confidence within themselves, and she sees that.”
Two years ago, during MKC’s 50th anniversary, Claudia and Dirk decided the time had arrived to sell the business to Stefi and their older daughter Katrina Van Wijk, who leads the school’s instructor training program. The sisters are now the third-generation owners of the Madawaska Kanu Centre. (The Kerckhoff van Wijk family is still seeking a suitable buyer for their other Ottawa Valley business, Owl Rafting.)
The family structured the sale on a 15-year timeline to avoid unduly burdening the business. Claudia maintains a presence at MKC, gently easing away from her life’s work, knowing she’s leaving it in capable hands. For her part, Stefi strives to keep the values that brought her home to MKC front and center.
“Everyone who loves MKC loves it for different reasons, so I’m not changing it,” she says. “I’m letting it be what it is. We are a school that was created to support people in their goals to be more in love with paddling.”
This article was first published in the 2024 issue of Paddling Business. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.
Stefi and Claudia van Wijk outside Madawaska Kanu Centre, based in Ontario’s Ottawa Valley. | Feature photo: Courtesy Madawaska Kanu Centre
This article was first published in the 2024 issue of Paddling Business. 
