What is the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

Answer 1

A canoeist uses a single-bladed paddle; a kayak paddle is longer and has a blade at each end. Kayakers therefore get twice as many strokes in as canoeists; however since a canoe paddle is shorter it is generally held more vertically and has a deeper, stronger stroke. Kayakers paddle sitting down; canoeists can paddle either sitting or kneeling. Most white-water canoes are setup for the paddler to be kneeling since that is more stable and gives the paddler more control. A kayak has a deck (top), most canoes don't; however a "C1" is a special type of canoe that looks like a kayak (has a deck) but has the paddler kneeling and using a single-bladed paddle. Kayaks and C1's also can be equipped with a "spray skirt" which covers the cockpit keeping water out and make them less likely to get swamped in rough water.