Sea Kayak Rental Frequently Asked Questions

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Q.	Do I need to Reserve or Book a Kayak?
A.	The short answer to this is Yes. For day rentals we will typically be able to find a kayak for you on most days but suggest you call ahead to avoid disappointment. For overnight and longer rental periods we frequently sell out.
Q.	Can anyone rent a kayak?
A.	If you have limited previous kayak experience, we recommend that you consider one of our Guided Kayak Tours. Our water temperature, weather conditions, the remoteness of the area and the tidal currents that we experience on the North Island introduce some very real danger to inexperienced paddlers.
Q.	I am traveling alone, will you rent me a kayak?
A.	North Island Kayak will typically Not rent to solo paddlers. If you believe that your skills and preparation should exclude you from this rule, please contact us and explain why.

Q.	What experience do I need to rent a double kayak?
A.	You should be familiar with a kayak in an open and cold water environment, interpret and understand tide and current tables, have and know how to use a marine chart and compass, have a means to get marine weather forecasts and be able to interpret them. We strongly recommend that you have an appropriate communication device, e.g. a marine VHF radio; we can rent you one of these.
Q.	What experience do I need to rent a Single kayak?
A.	In addition to what you need to rent a double kayak you must have undertaken training to provide you with Self Rescue skills. While an Eskimo Roll is not required you must be able to exit your kayak and re-enter it unassisted by anyone else. This is typically known as Unassisted Self Rescue.
Q.	Will you hold a float plan for me?
A.	We strongly recommend that you leave a detailed float plan. We are more than happy to hold this for you, however we recommend that you also leave a copy with close friends or family.
Q.	Do Cellphones work?
A.	There is a cellphone tower on Cormarant Island. If you can get a good sightline to this tower then you will get cellphone coverage. If not then there will not be any or sporadic service. You should not consider a cellphone an appropriate primary communication device while kayaking.
Q.	Do you have Paddle Routes or Trails that I can use?
A.	Yes, we have routes for all occasions and will work with you to develop paddle routes that will suit your style and expectations. In order to provide the best route for you we need to know what these expectations are, how far per day do you wish to paddle, what sort of wildlife do you want to see, do you want to basecamp or move each day, etc.
Q.	What is a Water Taxi and why should I use one?
A.	A Water Taxi is a chartered boat that will pick up you, your kayaks and you gear at a predetermined location and deliver you safely and quickly to your destination. They are great for getting inexperienced kayakers safely across the open water and through the tidal rapids. If you are considering heading to the Broughton Archipelago or God's Pocket Marine Parks then a water taxi should be a serious consideration.
Q.	What do we do with bad weather?
A.	Plan for it. Consider arranging to paddle out and return by Water Taxi. These boats can operate in much worse conditions than you can kayak in and will get you home safe. This avoids the 'got to get home' scenario which can put you in serious danger.
Q.	Can you help me understand local conditions?
A.	North Island Kayak prides itself in providing expert local information. We can work with you to ensure you have the information to keep you safe.
Q.	Can you help me even if I am not renting a kayak from you?
A.	Yes! Come visit us or contact us before you arrive in Telegraph Cove. We always provide safety related information free of charge to anyone who is interested. If you are not renting from us, there may be a small charge for detailed trip planning.