The Fascination of the Tides

The tides are an impressive example of nature’s power. As sea kayakers, you’re right in the middle of it – experiencing firsthand the interplay of the moon, sun, and earth, feeling the sea breathe. Twice a day, the water level along our coasts rises and falls, creating powerful currents and transforming the landscape.
What poses a challenge for many water sports enthusiasts is a perfect ally for experienced sea kayakers: the power of the tides.

A fascinating cosmic dance between the moon, the sun, and our blue planet creates the natural spectacle of the tides.
Tides arise mainly from the gravitational pull of the moon on the Earth and its water masses. The moon doesn’t just pull on a single point but on the entire Earth. Since water is fluid, it is pulled more strongly towards the moon on the side facing it than the solid Earth, creating a tidal bulge. At the same time, on the side facing away from the moon, a second tidal bulge forms because the Earth is pulled away from the water more strongly than the water is pulled towards the moon.

As the Earth rotates beneath these two tidal bulges, we usually experience two high tides and two low tides per day at a given location. The sun also plays a role: while its gravitational pull is stronger than the moon’s, its greater distance from Earth reduces its influence on the tides to about half that of the moon.

During a full moon or new moon, the sun, moon, and Earth align. Their combined gravitational forces produce particularly high tides known as spring tides, creating the strongest currents. During a half moon, however, the sun and moon are at right angles to each other, their forces counteract, and neap tides with weaker currents occur.

What fascinates us is how tidal kayaking uniquely blends sport, nature, and physics. Engaging with the forces of nature, reading the water’s surface, and skillfully using the currents make every tour a special experience. Once you’ve mastered paddling with the tides, you’ll experience the sea on an entirely new level.

The rhythmic rise and fall of the sea, initially so mysterious, becomes a reliable partner for unforgettable paddling adventures. Suddenly, this powerful force of nature transforms into a dynamic ally, offering new perspectives for you and your kayak.

An average tidal current moves at 2-3 knots, which is about 4-5 km/h. For sea kayakers, this means: By properly harnessing the tides, you can double your range or cover the same distance with significantly less effort. The current becomes a natural engine, propelling the kayak almost effortlessly forward.

Where landmasses narrow and tidal currents are funneled through narrow passages, the notorious tideraces are formed – true hotspots for experienced sea kayakers. Like a gigantic funnel, headlands, islands, or reefs concentrate the water masses, accelerating them to impressive speeds. Here, the otherwise calm sea transforms into a dynamic play of currents, standing waves, and whirlpools. During spring tides, these natural rapids can reach speeds of over 6 knots. While these spots offer an exciting paddling playground for advanced kayakers, beginners should maintain a respectful distance and plan carefully.