Kayaking is a state of mind, a feeling of being one with nature and your surroundings. This is the feeling I get when I’m gliding effortlessly through the calm waters in pursuit of nature, whether I’m on the black waters of the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge howling to the red wolves, in search of river otter at Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary, or watching the sunset over the Pamlico Sound at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Unlike the popular perception of kayaking, there is no need to learn a roll, the process of being able to upright your kayak if it tips. The waters are calm, the kayaks are stable, and the pace is slow. It is not so much about adrenalin as it is about nature and solitude. Going with a knowledgeable guide will make your experience memorable and safe, as he or she will give you much more than just kayak instruction. They will give you insight into coastal ecology, Outer Banks’ history and folklore.
The best thing about being a kayak guide is seeing the joy it brings to others. Kayaking is so easy to learn and it is the best way to enjoy the wildlife the Outer Banks has to offer. Over the years, I’ve had many customers return thanking me for the sport I’d taught them in a previous summer. For families, it is an activity that all ages can enjoy equally. I even had one parent return saying that learning how to kayak had truly inspired his family and brought them closer together. It is now one of their favorite pastimes.
For me, it is the sense of peace I can achieve being on the water and seeing others feed off that energy. Kayaking is magical and addictive to those who appreciate nature and getting away from the fast pace. Just the other day, I kayaked with a father and his autistic son. The father was at first concerned about how his son would respond to this new environment, but the moment their kayak slid onto the water, the boy was at peace. It is this sense of calm that people enjoy while kayaking.
A common question I hear often is, “Which tour is your favorite?” My answer changes daily as wildlife sightings and events change from location to location. One day my answer will be the Alligator River, as our group is taken in by the calm black water trails where we often view the American alligator, or perhaps hear the red wolves respond to our wolf howling attempt. The next day it may be a tour at Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary, where we commonly watch in awe at the grace of river otters as they splash about pulling crabs from below. Or it could be an unforgettable sunset at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge over the open waters of the Pamlico Sound. Whichever you choose, the experience will be unforgettable.
Contact your favorite guide company today and make this year’s vacation on the Outer Banks the most memorable. |
