• Home
  • Learn
  • The Importance of Kayak Bulkheads

The Importance of Kayak Bulkheads

When shopping for an affordable recreational kayak, many people assume that any model will do, as long as it floats. However, an important feature is missing from many of these bargain finds: bulkheads. Bulkheads are watertight compartments in a watercraft that add buoyancy and prevent it from sinking. A kayak that doesn’t have bulkheads will quickly fill with water if it capsizes, and when that happens it can go to the bottom just like a tiny plastic Titanic. That’s why you should always make sure your kayak has bulkheads or other positive flotation such as float bags (removable air-filled bags that provide additional buoyancy to a kayak without bulkheads). There’s nothing wrong with affordable kayaks. Just make sure yours has bulkheads or added flotation.

Related Articles

If you love a snow day and kayaking, canoeing, and SUP boarding, you may have wondered if you can…

The view from Allen’s boat as he rushed to rescue two men from a capsized motorboat. Photo courtesy…

Kayakers at sunset in New York Harbor. Vor/Shutterstock New York City is an extraordinary place to…

National Safe Boating Week is coming! Let's kick off the busy boating season with Wear Your Life Jacket…