Kayaking Made Easy

How to Kayak in 5 Minutes:

Special thanks to Robert over at Blue Planet for making this video! Go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68KMZXAstSs

Pre-Rental Safety Briefing

Welcome to WatersportsNow.com! Before you launch, please pay close attention to this mandatory safety briefing, which covers all Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) required topics. Your safety is our top priority.

1. Local Hazards

  • Tidal Currents & Wind: Expect strong currents. Wind can pick up quickly in open waterways — stay within designated rental zones.
  • Boat Traffic: Watch for boats, fishing skiffs, and paddle craft in narrow channels and near public docks. Always allow larger vessels plenty of room.
  • Underwater Obstacles: Avoid shallow sandbars, oyster beds, and submerged vegetation that can snag or capsize a kayak. Do not paddle over marked oyster shoals or fragile seagrass beds.

2. Life Jacket Use & Distress Signals

  • Life Jackets (PFDs): A U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD must be worn at all times, properly fastened and adjusted.
  • Fit Check: Lift up at the shoulders — jacket should not ride above your chin or ears.
  • Distress Signals:

Whistle: Three short blasts = emergency

Visual: Raise paddle overhead and wave it, or extend your arms in a "Y" shape

Voice: Shout "Mayday" or "Help" if someone is in danger

3. Navigation Rules

  • Right-of-Way: Kayaks yield to all larger vessels and motorboats. Maintain a safe distance. When two kayaks meet bow-to-bow, the kayak on the left yields to the one on the right.
  • Channel Markers & Buoys: Green markers on your left (port) when returning, red markers on your right (starboard). Do not cross between channel markers — stay within the marked route.
  • Speed & Distance: Paddle slowly in no wake zones. Keep at least 100 feet (30 meters) from docks, dive flags, and fishing areas.

4. Alcohol & Drug Prohibition

  • Zero Tolerance: Florida law prohibits operating any vessel (including kayaks) under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you appear impaired, rental will be terminated immediately without refund.
  • Drug Use: Prescription medications are allowed only if they do not impair balance, vision, or judgment.

5. Questions & Confirmation

Before you go, please confirm:

  • You have received and understand all safety instructions.
  • Your PFD is properly fitted and a whistle is attached.
  • Your mobile number is correct for any urgent text updates.