Splash Out (shake out) and Reentry

Описание: I am not sure there is much actual utility in doing a splash-out (shake-out) - although with a larger canoe it is easier than doing a Capistrano Flip. If you are solo (and alone) it is best to avoid the probability of tipping altogether - prevention rather than recovery. With that in mind understanding the dynamics of tipping, righting, and reentering a canoe is useful when trying to keep yourself out of problems.

The shape of the canoe makes a big difference in how well this technique works - too much tumblehome and the water is just redirected back, too little tumblehome and it is more difficult to keep water from flowing back over the gunwale. There are some canoes that I have never successfully splashed out. A round bottom, or soft arch (at least rounded chines) is easier than a flat or V bottom. I have found canoes with holes in the inwale (like a canvas-covered cedar) is easier. I have always assumed this was because of water sloshing out through the holes.

If possible start with getting some of the water out of the canoe (airbags do this for you :-)) by pushing forward from the bow or stern and letting some water rush out over the sides, this will start you out with the gunwales above the waterline. The first few 'sloshes, should be slow, just enough to get the water moving back and forth. Match the rocking motion with the speed of the slosh - speeding up as the canoe empties.

Typically I hold the gunwale further toward the bow (or stern), I get less water in the face that way (I don't know what I was thinking today). When the water is sloshing away from you pull up on the gunwale (you might even get water going out the far side), and then push down and forward when the water comes toward you.

This was the first time I have done a splashout in almost a year. I am clearly out of practice as I usually can get the water cleared in ~30 seconds.

Don't try to get every last drop of water out of the canoe - you can bail the last little bit. You should expect to get lots of water in the face (be prepared for a big burp when you are done).