Kayak Sailing in Maine

Sails on a kayak give more speed and maneuverability to the craft.

Kayak sailing, a sport growing in popularity, involves a kayak with a sail attached to give the kayaker more speed and maneuverability. Kayak sailors go to Maine because of its many waterways, rivers and lakes, as well as its miles of coastline.

On the Sea

Kayak sailors can sail or paddle up and down the entire coast of Maine following the Maine Island Trail. Kayak sailing on the sea offers opportunities for whale watching.

In Fresh Water

Those who prefer river kayaking can hoist sail and travel down the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. Many of the rivers and lakes allow fishing, so kayak sailors can sail from hot spot to hot spot and catch their game. Licenses are required for fishing in Maine.

Types of Kayak Sailing Rigs

Competition in the Maine area has inspired a few different designs for kayak sailboats. One is a catamaran-style kayak, in which the cockpit sits above the waterline and two floats attached to either side help to stabilize the craft. The mast and sail are fixed to the front of the kayak. Other designs have a simple mast and sail fixed to the kayak, without the floats.

References

• Maine Guides Online: Water Guides: Kayaking
• Active: Sailing: Best of Both Worlds: Sailing Kayak

Resources

• The Maine Way: A Look at the Beauty of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway