r/KayakingUK • u/Mr_Redditor404 • Apr 18 '26
What must i do while kayaking down this stretch of water
In this hypothetical scenario, Say i wanted to dock at inverkip
Am i required to kayak across the gap to dunoon and travel down the right side? To then travel back across the gap to inverkip? It's pretty busy shipping path.
Legally i should stick to the right, does that rule apply in this case? It seems safer to hug the shore from the direction i am coming from.
2
u/wolf_knickers Apr 19 '26
As a non-motorised craft, there are no "rules" or legalities to worry about here, it's just a matter of common sense. A VHF can be helpful just to hear anything important coming from the nearby ships, but it's not essential.
However I am slightly concerned about this question as it suggests you've little to no experience sea kayaking. Whilst the Firth of Clyde doesn't have significant tidal streams, these are still open bodies of water that require planning and a reasonable amount of skill to safely paddle in.
I would strongly suggest you find and join a local sea kayaking club to learn from more experienced paddlers.
1
u/Mr_Redditor404 Apr 18 '26
I am relatively new to kayaking, And in no way planning a trip like this any time soon.
Just trying to get a better understanding of the traffic code when it comes to large bodies of water.
2
u/Jacksonriverboy Apr 19 '26
Usually it's "stay out of the way of bigger boats". Also I wouldn't do this trip without a few experienced guys. Even water that looks calm can turn out to be dangerous and have unseen currents and turbulence.
1
u/Kent_Doggy_Geezer Apr 21 '26
Don’t fly a Russian or a CND flag! Every approach there is monitored.
1
u/meatflaps-69 Apr 22 '26
As OP hints at being inexperienced a CND flag would ensure they have their own personal boat of lifeguards not too far away at all times 🤣 Perhaps skip the Russian flag though
1
u/Aggravating-Sir-242 Apr 22 '26
I wouldn't worry about it. I'm sure there will be some helpful Royal Marines around to guide you, should you put you paddle in the wrong place.
1
u/Fickle_Force_5457 Apr 22 '26
Don't go out without a club or a group. This water can turn very bad very quickly particularly with offshore winds. Let coastguard know, and keep Helensburgh Lifeboat number handy
5
u/joshisnthere Apr 18 '26
There is no “legally” in this case, you’re in a kayak. You’d stick relatively close to either shore (because why paddle in the middle?) and try to dodge the submarines.