Getting Started

The basic difference between canoeing and kayaking is the canoes and the kayaks themselves. The canoe can sit more people and they do not appear to be so embedded in the canoe. The kayak, on the other hand, has a compartment in which the kayaker sits to take part in the process. There can be two holes or more, but one kayaker fits in the hole to begin kayaking. Canoes are more wide open for space and can fit cargo a little bit better than a kayak. Some kayaks, like sea kayaks for example, can be made to fit cargo underneath the surface of the kayak.
Canoeing and kayaking also take their cues from differences in the paddles. The canoe uses, typically, a one-sided paddle where as the kayak uses a two bladed paddle. The motion of the rowing for each is different because of this. The canoe rower simple paddles the water in one motion, repeatedly. The kayaker typically continues the motion in a circle with both ends of the paddle getting into the water and working it in the right direction. Many people think kayaking gives you greater exercise because of this.