Embarking on a sea kayaking adventure in the world’s most untamed landscapes is a unique experience that offers a profound connection to nature and the environment. It's a journey that places you in a small, like-minded group of individuals, all drawn to the allure of the cold water and the thrill of piloting their own vessel. As you paddle away from the shore, the sounds of engines and human activity fade, replaced by the crackling of glacial ice, the breath of whales, and the cries of seabirds in the crisp, cold air.

Understandably, the process of selecting a sea kayaking experience from the myriad of companies and offerings can be overwhelming. Transitioning from browsing websites to your first moment on the open ocean can feel daunting. That's why it’s important to take a step back and learn the language of paddling, understand your options, know what to bring, and how to best prepare for your expedition.

The very name sea kayak has come to cover a large spectrum of vessels, the type of which can determine the kind of experience you are likely to have. Indeed, having a little information on these vessels can help predict what kind of experience a company has planned.

Sit-on-top kayaks are open-top vessels with no enclosed deck. They are either inflatable or plastic, but regardless, they are very stable and beginner-friendly.

Enclosed sea kayaks: These boats are true sea kayaks. You’ll wear a spray skirt and a neoprene bib that covers the cockpit where you sit.