River Kayaking--how deep is the water?

We have been visiting Kauai every summer for about 12 years. Usually we come in August as a family trip, but this year it is just DH and myself. We arrive November 1.

On this forum I have read about all the great experiences kayaking either on the Wailua River or the Hanalei River. I find this very intriguing and I would love to try, especially the Wailua River with a hike to ';Not-so'; Secret Falls. But, my challenges are that I am deathly afraid of water, followed by I am allergic to salt water.

With all of our trips to Kauai, I have been taken Na Pali Catamaran or Liko Kauai trips 6-7 times--I just don%26#39;t do the snorkel part. So, I am getting braver around water. I can also now walk along the surf and I am always prepared with a spray bottle of fresh water to wash off the salt.

If we take a kayak tour and I wear a life vest (technically I can swim), I think I should be OK.

How deep is the Wailua River? Given all the experienced kayakers on this forum, what are your opinions on an apprehensive and novice kayaker on a tour? Would I be a drag to the whole group?

Thanks!

jo

River Kayaking--how deep is the water?

Jo,

Bless you for wanting to brave your fear of the water, but kayaks are not super stable like boats.

You will be issued life jackets, and as far as the depth of the water....how tall are you ? let%26#39;s say

five feet four inches....any thing over that is deep.

Now, novice kayakers, which is about 90% of those renting kayaks, are on the wailua in droves.

I would strongly, suggest, that if you intend to go, is to paddle the rivers with a guided tour, and learn something about kayaking in the pre paddle briefing. Could help with your confidence level.

I you were my loved one, I would really sit down with you and quietly and logically figure out if this is a good idea....are you going to be anxious, and stressed during the paddle to the eddy out. It will take some time to do that. And of course the return.

What would your reaction be if you did happen to huli? Would you be able to get back to the kayak, and right it, and climb back in ?

What would your state of mind be dueinf a hour long paddle up river, and then back down ?

What is your physical condition, would you be able to down river paddle into the trade winds, and keep the kayak going straight, and be having fun....or would fatigue set in, muscles get sore, and your mindset then , perhaps be letting some of your misgivings start take over.

It it worth it, to you, and will you have FUN ! Not an ordeal.

Now, that is how I would counsel a loved one, who had shared with me, their concerns.

Also, you might ask if you could go with one of the guides, who knows what the heck he, or she is doing ?

But, be honest with the company and explain what you are telling us before you book it.

Revaling the things that you have, that could result in problems, might not recommend a kayak trip.

You have an alergy to salt water, and concern over the depth of fresh water.....we have lots of other wonderful things to experience on this island that you may want to consider.

Your decision, your choice, just really think it through, and stay within your personal limits...we all want you happy, at ease, and safe.

Incidentally we have kayaked the Wailua, the Hanalei, and Huleia Rivers. The Kalihiwai Stream, the Jungle stream on princeville land, and several other smaller areas, as well as Hanalei Bay , out to Hideways, after paddling the Hanalei river, and Erica has paddled the Napali Coast, 17 miles in one day of ocean kayaking ( twice ). We have also ocean kayaked along the Kona Coast on the BI.

Just mentioning our experience , so that you understand that we are quite familar with kayaking here, and only want what is best for you, and your group.

Denny

River Kayaking--how deep is the water?

Denny,

Thank you for all the information and your concerns.

Over the years, I have become braver around water. I have even snorkeled in water over my head. That is how I discovered my allergy to salt water! Salt water if it dries on my skin causes a burn, swelling and blisters--even if I cry. Good news is I have lotions and potions from the doctor that I always have with me when we visit Kauai.

Whenever I have ventured out on water adventures such as the Na Pali cruises, I have been very upfront about my fear of water. I find if I just talk about it, the boat operators will let me know if I should be concerned about too much salt spray or in any kind of danger. You can always pick me out on the boat trip--I am the only one wearing a life jacket for the entire trip. But it gives me a sense of confidence and certain level of security and I can relax and enjoy the trip.

Also, I get a certain confidence from having my husband with me. Over the years, bit-by-bit he has encouraged my to be braver when near water. (I almost drowned in Lake Michigan when I was 2). I know if he is in the kayak with me and anything does happen, he will be right there for me.

Before making any commitments, I would want to talk to the guide, explain my concerns and if I don%26#39;t get warm fuzzies, I will just pass. Last year in Kauai, we were a party of 8 and everyone kayaked up the Wailua, except me, I stayed at the condo. Everyone came back all excited about the great time they had, I was envious.

I am 5%26#39;9';, how deep is the Wailua? If you tell me it is 25-30 deep in areas, I will definitely pass, but if it is 5-6 feet deep, I could be OK. I am in fairly good physical shape, thru the nagging of my daughter, I am at the gym 5-6 times a week and she has me on a strict workout regime. So, for 50+, I am in good shape, so fatigue is not a concern to me.

But, I will do all my homework before committing to anything and if I feel uncomfortable in any way, I will pass.

The Wailua River is primarily fresh water, correct?

Thank you,

jo

Denny,

Thanks for the chuckle :) Anything over one%26#39;s head is ';deep';.

%26lt;%26lt; am 5%26#39;9';, how deep is the Wailua? If you tell me it is 25-30 deep in areas, I will definitely pass, but if it is 5-6 feet deep, I could be OK.%26gt;%26gt;

Boy I wish I could tell you how deep - I think you will be fine. We kayaked the Hule%26#39;ia River and never kayaked before, although we have canoed. I am a swimmer, grew up boating and water skiing on the Great Lakes. Now when we went out on the Na Pali, I would not go in the water! So I understand how you feel. I honestly think you will be fine. I am one who if I can see the bottom I am fine, but if I can%26#39;t see it then I don%26#39;t like it. It is like flying, I detest flying, I hate taking off but love landing. Personally I think you will enjoy it - go for it!

Jo,

Very pleased to hear that you are working out on an almost daily basis.

That is a big plus, being in good shape.

Won%26#39;t belabor the kayaking, you will make your own excellent informed decision on that one.

However, if you miss your mainland work outs, and would like to continue with your exercise program while on island...In Lihue, across from Kukuigrove Macy%26#39;s is the Kauai Athletic Club.

All kinds of classes, pool, jacuzzi, steam sauna, cardio room, and of course free weights and machines.

Also, we have a great deli, with excellent sandwiches, salads, soups, etc, and large foyer, large TV, and even a sport wear botique.

I know when we are on vacations, if there is a gym near by, we continue with our programs.

Now, I promise not to mention this to your daughter, just in case you are planning on enjoying a short break. A little sabatical does every one good once in a while.

But, should you miss it.....well, the fun is awaiting.

Enjoy your Kauai visit, number 7 or 8...you are going to have a marvelous time.

Denny