Here at the world-famous John Gray Sea Canoe, you could say we’ve seen our fair share of canoes and kayaks over the years. In fact, we have our own designs created specifically for us to our exact specifications, perfectly suited to an exhilarating Phang Nga kayak tour or a spot of James Bond Island canoeing. We are often asked, ‘What is the difference between a kayak and a canoe?’ So let’s take a closer look and see what the real differences are.
Boat design
On closer inspection, you might notice a traditional canoe resembles a small boat, and the hull sits fairly low in the water. The bow cuts through the water, allowing the canoe to slip through behind it easily. A kayak tends to sit higher, almost on top of the water, with a raised bow, making it better at skimming across the surface.
Paddles
Both kayaks and canoes use paddles to propel the vessel through the water, but they are of a very different construction. Canoes have a flat blade at one end of the shaft only as there are often multiple occupants and they can each paddle to one side. Kayaks are more likely to be used by a single person, so it makes more sense to have a blade at either end of the paddle.
Seating position
Canoes often have a number of seats, and the style of propulsion leans more towards a kneeling or seated position. Paddlers in kayaks find themselves sitting much lower, almost on the bottom of the boat, with their feet stretched out in front.
Stability and manoeuvrability
Kayaks are usually shorter than canoes and, although less capable in a straight line over long distances, are superb at rapid turns and changes of direction. This makes them a firm favourite with thrill-seekers in river rapids, whereas canoeing is a more stable, leisurely experience, conducive to longer distances.
Purpose and usage
Uses can vary significantly, but it would generally be true to say a canoe is a more stable craft intended for use over longer distances, perhaps as a platform for fishing. A kayak is used for shorter bursts requiring increased agility and the ability to change direction quickly, making them a much more recreational-focused vessel.
Recommended kayaking and canoeing tours in Phuket
Now that we’ve set the scene, it’s time to choose the perfect Phang Nga Bay kayak trip to check out these amazing crafts for yourself. We highly recommend the following tours as great ways to experience the freedom and tranquillity of gliding over the crystal Thai waters under your own power:
- Phang Nga Bay trip by Daylight
- Day trip to James Bond Island
- James Bond Island alternative day trip
- Hong Island by Starlight
Contact us
If your appetite for adventure has been suitably whetted, why not take the next step and try our Phang Nga Kayaking tours or perhaps a James Bond Island kayak excursion? Please get in touch with the friendly staff here at John Gray Sea Canoe, and we will gladly give you any extra details and help you book your first trip today. We look forward to seeing you here soon and are confident you will not be disappointed when you are Hong Island canoeing in tropical Thailand!
