Cave Kayaking

Cave kayaking is certainly a great thing to do and can be very exciting.

Usually it happens around coastlines or possibly around mountainous lake sides and occasionally in rivers (more so if you include tunnels!).

It can be challenging and requires a little planning to ensure it can be done safely.

Dave cave kayaking around South Stack lighthouse, Anglesey

The first challenge is finding a cave to kayak in.

Generally they are not massive cave systems with winding tunnels, but single caves (caverns) etched into the rock. Sometimes they provide a through passage and sometimes they are blocked.

6 Top Tips When Cave Kayaking

Here are 6 top tips to consider when cave kayaking.

1) Type Of Cave - The type of cave is important. A cave on a coastline will have to handled different to one on the edge of a lake or river. Can you pass all the way through it? Is it big enough at all stages? Are there any hazards in the cave? eg. metal/wooden beams, lodged trees, sharp edges etc. You will need to make allowances for any hazards - or skip the cave if it is too dangerous.

2) Water Levels - The level of water in the cave can change - and very rapidly too. Coastal caves rise and fall with the tide - and even with each wave. As the tide and waves change, the level could rise to the roof of the cave and make it lethal. Watching the water before and during your paddle through is critical. You may need to make changes as you go and even reverse your route.

3) Lighting - Longer caves will be darker (or even dark). Ensure you have adequate lighting for everyone making the trip.

Dave wearing a premium kayaking helmet

4) Helmets - Everyone in the group MUST wear a kayaking helmet. The chances of bumping your head - even lightly is very likely!

5) Group Capability - You must ensure that everyone making the trip is capable of doing it. Providing safety equipment and lights to everyone will help. Some caves will be confined which may not suit everyone. Check this before you make the trip.

6) Have A Plan B - It serves well to make a plan B. If things don't go as you want, you can quickly and easily change to plan B. Plan B may also include a different route to miss out the caves.

Follow these top tips and your cave kayaking will be fun and safe.

See you on the river.

PS. Paddlesports can be dangerous.
Read our safety disclaimer - here

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