What we check before every paddle
Twenty-four things our lead guide confirms before a single kayak touches the water. This is the same checklist we log in our safety system for every departure — published so you know exactly what we do.
Go or no-go, before you get in the boat
The lead guide works through this list at the launch beach on the morning of every trip, from a three-hour Discover Sea Kayaking session to a six-day expedition.
Each item is recorded as compliant, non-compliant or not applicable. Anything marked critical has to be right before we launch — if it is not, we fix it, change the route, or cancel and refund. There is no version of this where we go anyway.
Twenty-four points, six areas
1. Weather, sea and plan
Done first, because everything else depends on it.
Weather forecast checked for the full trip window — wind speed and direction, swell, rain and lightning — using BMKG and Windy.
CriticalTide times noted; route and any mangrove entry or exit timed to the tide.
HighSea state observed at the launch site and compared with the forecast; go / no-go decision made by the lead guide and recorded.
CriticalTrip plan lodged with base: route, headcount, departure time, expected return and phone check-in times.
Critical
2. Guests and briefing
Who is coming, and what they know before they launch.
Guest list confirmed and headcount matches the booking; swimming ability and medical declarations reviewed.
HighGuide-to-paddler ratio of 1:4 or better; support boat confirmed for any crossing that requires one.
CriticalSafety briefing delivered: capsize and wet exit, paddle signals, staying with the group, and snorkelling rules.
Critical
3. Personal kit
Checked on every person, guides included.
Buoyancy aid fitted to every guest and guide — correct size, all buckles fastened, whistle attached.
CriticalSun protection in place: hat, rash vest or long sleeves, reef-safe sunscreen applied before launch.
MediumFootwear worn for launching, landing and reef walking — stonefish and coral protection.
HighDrinking water: at least 1.5 litres per person per half day, secured in the kayak.
High
4. Kayaks and paddling equipment
Every boat, every time.
Hulls, decks and deck lines inspected — no cracks, holes, loose fittings or frayed lines.
HighHatch covers and bulkheads sealed and watertight; hatches closed before launch.
HighRudder or skeg operating freely; foot pegs adjusted to each paddler.
MediumPaddles checked for cracks and secure joints; at least one spare paddle carried per group.
HighSpray decks fitted and every guest shown the release strap.
HighRescue kit on the lead and tail guide kayaks: tow line, paddle float, bilge pump and sponge.
High
5. Communications and emergency
What gets us help if we need it. Sekotong Bay has 4G and 5G coverage, so the phone is our primary link to base.
Mobile phone charged, in a dry bag, with emergency numbers for search and rescue, hospital and base saved; 4G/5G signal confirmed at the launch site.
CriticalSignalling equipment carried by the guide: whistle, signal mirror, and flare or strobe as required for the route.
HighFirst aid kit stocked, sealed and in a dry bag; lead guide holds a current first-aid certificate.
Critical
6. Launch site, snorkelling and environment
Where we put in, and how we leave the place.
Launch and landing sites checked for hazards — boat traffic, rocks, coral, stonefish — and an alternate landing identified.
HighSnorkel masks and snorkels checked for fit and leaks; fins if issued.
MediumWaste bags carried; no single-use plastics; guests briefed on the no-touch rule for coral, turtles and wildlife.
MediumAll critical items compliant, or the trip is cancelled or re-routed; lead guide signs off before launch.
Critical
Your part
Tell us honestly about your swimming ability and any medical conditions when you book — it changes how we plan the day, not whether you can come. Wear the buoyancy aid the whole time you are on the water, keep your footwear on at landings, and if the guide says the weather has turned, that is the end of the discussion.
Questions about safety?
Ask us anything about kit, guides, ratios or what happens if the weather turns. We would rather answer now than on the beach.