Canoe vs Kayak: What’s the Difference

Norfolk Marine
Blog
8 May 2025
32
views

The waterways of the UK offer some beautiful sites and settings, whether it's gentle paddling along the Norfolk Broads or tackling more adventurous river routes. When finding ways to explore these water trails, it's likely to come across two popular options: the canoe and the kayak. While they may seem similar at first glance, they're actually quite different in design, purpose and performance.

At Norfolk Marine, we know how important it is to choose the right craft for your needs. Join us as we break down the key differences between canoes and kayaks, discuss the pros and cons of each, and offer examples to help you decide which is best for your next adventure.

What’s the Main Difference Between a Canoe and a Kayak?

The most noticeable difference is in how they look and how you sit in them.

Canoes are usually open on top, a bit like a rowing boat. You often sit on a raised bench and use a single-bladed paddle to propel yourself through the water. Canoes are normally larger and can carry more gear, people and weight.
Kayaks often have a closed deck with a small cockpit where the paddler sits, although open kayaks have become more popular in recent years. You sit lower and closer to the water, with your legs extended in front of you, and use a double-bladed paddle. Kayaks are sleeker and more streamlined.

Design and Seating

Canoe Design: Open-top design, wider hull, higher seating. You typically kneel or sit on a bench. This offers good visibility and ease of access, especially if you're carrying equipment or young children.
Kayak Design: Enclosed or open sit-on cockpit with a low seating position. Your legs are stretched in front, which gives a lower centre of gravity, helping with balance, speed and mobility.

In the colder British months, kayaks tend to offer better protection from wind and spray, while canoes are ideal for warmer summer days.

Paddling Techniques

Canoe: Paddled with a single-bladed paddle, usually on one side of the boat, switching sides to stay in a straight line. It can take a bit of coordination, especially with more than one paddler.
Kayak: Uses a double-bladed paddle for a more rhythmic, side-to-side stroke. This makes kayaks easier for beginners to control in many cases, especially when paddling solo.

Storage and Carrying Gear

Canoes: Ideal for carrying camping gear, cool boxes, fishing equipment, or even dogs. Their open design makes loading and unloading quick and easy. If exploring as a family, canoes offer a big advantage.
Kayaks: Storage is more limited but still practical. Most have watertight hatches and bungee cords on the deck. While they can’t carry as much, equipment can stay drier and more secure in rougher conditions.

Stability and Comfort

Canoes are generally wider, making them very stable and great for beginners or families. You can move around a bit more freely, which is good for longer trips or when travelling with children or pets.
Kayaks are usually narrower and designed for speed and agility. Sit-in kayaks provide good control but less freedom to move. Sit-on-top kayaks (a third type, common in the UK for casual use) are very stable and easy to get in and out of, even if you capsize.

Canoes Vs Kayaks: Pros and Cons

Canoes

PROS	CONS
Great for group paddling and families Easier to load and unload More space for gear and pets High visibility and open view	Heavier and bulkier to transport Harder to paddle solo, especially in wind More exposed to the elements

Kayaks

PROS	CONS
Sleek and fast through the water Easier to paddle solo Better suited to windy or rough conditions Sit-in options provide weather protection	Less storage capacity Harder to get in and out of Not as comfortable for tall paddlers

Examples of Use in the UK

Canoes

Family Day Out: Perfect for a gentle cruise on the Norfolk Broads. Pack a picnic, bring the dog, and enjoy a relaxing day on the water.
Camping Trips: If you're paddling down the River Wye or Thames over several days, a canoe gives you plenty of room for a tent, cooking kit and food.
Fishing: Stable enough to stand in for casting and with space to carry all your tackle.

Kayaks

Solo Adventures: Great for those who want to explore at their own pace. Try it out on the River Stour or explore inlets and creeks in a sea kayak.
Coastal Exploration: Sea kayaks are ideal for longer coastal routes around Norfolk or even paddling to hidden beaches.
Fitness and Sport: Fast, responsive and low-resistance—kayaking is a brilliant way to get fit on the water.

Canoe or Kayak: Which is Best For You?

The right choice depends on your intended use and who you'll be paddling with.

Go for a canoe if you're paddling with family, bringing along dogs or gear, or planning relaxed journeys on calm inland waters.
Choose a kayak if you prefer solo adventures, coastal routes, or a more active paddling style. They're also easier to manage in changeable weather.

Still not sure? Why not try both! Many hire centres across the UK, including in Norfolk, offer canoe and kayak hire so you can test what feels best for you.

Canoes and kayaks both offer unique ways to enjoy the UK’s stunning rivers, lakes and coastline. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day afloat or an exhilarating day of exploring.

We stock a range of canoes, kayaks, paddles and accessories—so whether you're just getting started or upgrading your gear, we’ve got you covered. Visit our Norfolk showroom or browse our online store to learn more.

Norfolk Marine