Gear up
Read your booking details in advance. You can find a guide on how to gear up and get started further below.
Useful information before you head out
Make sure you come prepared, and know what to do when you return.
Get ready for your rental
The key to a successful day out is to be well prepared! Here we have gathered some useful tips to read before you head out and for when you come back. Please note that some things might vary for different countries and locations.
Paddle safely
See all our safety instructions here. Adjust your day to your abilities and the weather.
Leave the equipment in good condition
Our concept relies on responsability and honesty. Please follow our check out routine below.
Before your paddle:
The slot number in your SMS and booking email indicates where your kayak/SUP is located on the KAYAKOMAT. Enter the code into the keypad on the lock and finalize by opening the padlock.
Pull out the kayak and close the lock. Please note: The code will only activate at the exact start time of your booking. Inspect to ensure all equipment is in the kayak/SUP and that it is in clean condition. If the kayak is excessively dirty, take a photo before use and send it to the local KAYAKOMAT operator with your comments (see contacts in your booking confirmation).
How to use the equipment
- Put the life jacket over your head and secure the strap between your legs.
- Assemble the paddle and put on the spray deck so that it fits like a skirt.
- Carefully carry the kayak down to the launch area and step in gently. Attach the spray deck over the cockpit and make sure hatches are properly closed (sit inside kayaks only). Secure the paddle leash to the kayak.
- Bring all your belongings with you! There are no storage facilities on sites, but all Sit inside kayaks have storage hatches where you leave your shoes, a small bag etc. The hatch stays relatively dry if you close them properly, but we do not take responsibility for personal items, and recommend bringing a waterproof bag.
- Guide on how to gear up for kayak here and SUP here.
During your paddle:
Important things to think about before and during your paddling:
- There is no rudder, you steer with your paddle. If you want to turn left, paddle a little extra on your right hand side.
- If in tandem kayaks; do keep the paddles on the same side of each other and take one stroke before swapping sides. This is to keep going straight. If you want to turn, it is up to the person sitting at the back to steer. Paddle extra on the left if you want to turn right.
- Plan your route according to your ability and the weather. Plan to be back ahead of time.
- Again, check the safety instructions before heading out.
- Here (click link) you can find some tutorials for paddling technique.
After your paddle:
Kayakomat is a self service concept that relies on you leaving the equipment the same way you wish to find. Report any missing or malfunctioning items.
- Make sure to be back in time to avoid a late return fee.
- Clean the kayak with the sponge and take out any water with the bailer.
- Put the life west, spray skirt and paddle in the cockpit so they can dry, NOT in the enclosed hatches since that will damage the accessories.
- Don’t forget to bring your belongings.
- Put the kayak back into the right slot, the number is above the slot. The stern should be put in first.
- Lock the kayak.
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