Skillset: The 'Scramble' Self Rescue

April-May 2006

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
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by Alex Matthews

The scramble is really just what it sounds like: a self-rescue technique in which you scramble back on top of your boat and get into the cockpit, all without the aid of another paddler, or the use of any dedicated rescue gear. It’s quite a balancing act, but it’s fast, and with a little practice, easier than you might suspect.

Once you’ve wet-exited, flip your boat back upright. If possible, lift the bow at arm’s length as you rotate it, as this will scoop the least amount of water into the cockpit.

To re-enter, approach your boat from the side, aft of the cockpit. While keeping hold of your paddle, get a good grip of the cockpit rim with one hand, and reach across the boat with the other. Now dynamically pull yourself up, chest down, onto the stern deck, facing forward. A powerful and well-timed kick of the legs will help launch you up out of the water.

Once up on the stern deck, staying as low as possible, throw a leg over the kayak so that you’re straddling it with your head towards the bow. Having a leg in the water on each side of the boat will help stabilize you.

Now work your way forward, securing a good grip on the front of the cockpit rim. Once your pelvis is over the cockpit opening, quickly drop your butt down into the seat. Using your paddle for support, pull your legs in under the deck. Finally, pump out water in the cockpit and get your skirt back on.

While the scramble is most effective in mild conditions and won’t work in really rough water, it’s a great addition to your bag of rescue tricks. It’s also a lot of fun to practice! In fact, kids often naturally play at perfecting this method of re-entry without it being suggested. Be aware that the scramble re-entry is easier to perform on kayaks with low stern decks. The lower the rear deck, the easier it is to haul yourself up onto it from the water, and the lower and more stable you will be once you’re up there. If you want extra support from your paddle while ‘scrambling’, attach a paddle float to your blade before starting your re-entry.

© Alex Matthews is also the co-author with Ken Whiting of the book Touring and Sea Kayaking—The Fundamental Skills and Safety, and the instructional DVD The Ultimate Guide to Sea Kayaking. With this issue, we are launching Alex’s new skills column.