Equipment Requirements

The equipment requirements below form part of our Paddler Grading System.  See our Policy Guidelines document which is found here for more detailed information on recommended sea kayak equipment and fit-out.   

Essential at all levels:

  • well maintained sea kayak with at least 2 bulkheads or a fitted sea-sock and secondary (inflatable or fixed) buoyancy,
  • fitted deck lines, paddle and paddle leash, spray skirt,
  • sponge, bailer and / or pump system,
  • Australian or NZ Standards approved Lifejacket with a suitable whistle attached by a lanyard,
  • cag or paddle jacket, warm clothing, sun-protective clothing, hat — all accessible from the cockpit,
  • sunscreen, food and at least two litres of water — all accessible from the cockpit,
  • footwear suitable for paddling, swimming and walking on rocks,
  • dry containers, matches,
  • current weather forecast

Essential at paddler Grade 2 and above, recommended at all levels:

  • tow rope — Club standard length of 15 metres with suitable storage and fittings for quick deployment

Essential at paddler Grade 3 and above, recommended at all levels:

  • hands-free bailing pump system (i.e. electric or foot pump),
  • spare paddle,
  • personal first aid kit, garbage bags and/or 'space blanket',
  • compass and charts.

Recommended at all levels:

  • additional topographic maps for that unexpected walk out,
  • flares and other signals to Roads and Maritime specifications,
  • instantly accessible knife,
  • kayak repair kit — at least a roll of duct tape,
  • relevant personal items e.g. medication,
  • further warm clothing, waterproof clothing, footwear, food, water and a day pack, secured in dry storage in the kayak,
  • emergency shelter and survival equipment,
  • helmet for surf landings

Ideas for Tow Ropes

Below are some ideas to assist in either making your own or evaluating the pros and cons of commercially available tow ropes.

We have a list of some outfitters, suppliers and manufacturers of sea kayaks and equipment.  Some trip leaders may have some equipment to lend out to beginners.