In this section I am not trying to provide all the rules and regulations for you to have a safe and pleasant trip, this is a synopsis of those. If you want information on Boating Laws and safety you should go to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, or the United States Coast Guard. If for any reason you are concerned or curious, I have included these and other websites in my web-links section of the appendix.
When kayaking in Florida you should be aware that the minimum safety requirements that apply to them just like any other vessel. Each person must have a wearable life jacket and some sort of efficient sound producing device (such as a plastic whistle) these are required by both U.S. Coast Guard and Florida state law. In addition, navigation between sunset and sunrise requires that a white light is available. If you have any mechanical (i.e... electric or gas motor) means of propulsion, you must have a State Registration.
Let’s start out in a reality check - you are going out in a body of water in a tiny little boat. If you have never kayaked before there is probably a outfitter or kayak sales nearby with a qualified trainer giving a beginners class. Safety should be your main thought while preparing and enjoying your paddle and dive. Always start by checking the weather before you go, don't go if it looks like it will get bad, and keep an eye open for any weather changes while you are out.
Learn the area you're paddling in, read as much as you can on the area and conditions. Be aware of your surroundings and note landmarks to assist you in navigation and your return to land. As you return be careful of weather and water conditions at the launch area. Carry a GPS or a Compass and Chart or Map.
Tell someone where you are going, who is going, time you expect to leave and return. File a float plan.
Beware of off-shore winds that make it difficult to return to shore.
Never mix alcohol or drugs (prescription or nonprescription) with boating.
Never exceed the weight capacity of your boat and always check your equipment for wear and tear before you paddle.
Bring first-aid supplies, water, snacks, sunblock, hat, adequate clothing, knife.
Never exceed your personal capabilities
Learn reentry techniques to get back into your kayak BEFORE you need them, know how to re-enter your boat and how to assist others back into their craft.
Be prepared when a powerboat passes near you.
Do not stand up in a canoe or kayak and avoid weight shifts that may cause capsize. Whenever possible, keep points of contact with the boat when moving.
Avoid paddling alone.
In general if you question its safety you probably shouldn't do it, or you should get qualified instruction before you do it.
You will find locating your way back to the boat ramp or launch much easier at the end of the day. In the years of boating that I have done, I have noted that unless you take time to observe all the landmarks at your launch site and commit them to memory you may be in trouble in relocating it. A GPS will aid in bringing you home to the right location and make paddling life much easier, but look for characteristics that identify that launch site. A water tower, large antenna, bridge, unusual building or house or anything that is unique and distinctly visible. This will give you a safe guide back just in case that GPS goes dead because you forgot to replace batteries or malfunctions.
I have strived to provide the three common forms or formats of displaying GPS coordinates at each site in this book. It is very important to match the type of format to the one you are using on your GPS unit. (Consult your GPS manual for specific instructions on how to change these settings, if needed) The three formats will all lead to the same site, but you need to use the format that matches the settings on your GPS. Most GPS’s will be set to (Decimal Minutes) but verify what your GPS settings require.
Common types of formats include:
Degrees DD.DDDD
Degrees, Minutes DD MM.MMM
Degrees, Minutes, Seconds DD MM SS
So even though you will see in the example below there are three ways of presenting the site locations they are the same site but presented in 3 different formats.
In summary take time to locate distinctive landmarks at your launch site, and make sure that they are still visible from offshore as you paddle out. I highly recommend having and using a GPS, becoming familiar with how to use it, and make sure you have backup batteries or power supply. Having a compass is also an invaluable backup to a GPS failure, but take time to learn their proper use.
If you are unsure about any part of the upcoming event, seek someone who can give you qualified instruction in that area of concern. Seek reliable a weather forecast, check sea conditions, learn landmarks and always keep an eye on weather and sea conditions while you are out. Another important consideration is water, sunblock, and clothing. My wife and I always wear a bright yellow long sleeve rash guard, also known as rash vest or rashie, is a type of water wear. It helps protect you from the sun and makes you more visible in the water or on the kayak, to power boaters in the area. Learn how to and practice recovery in getting back into your kayak before you go.