T rescue

This rescue is only suited for kayaks that have a rear bulkhead. Kayaks without bulkheads should be rescued using the X rescue.

To perform a T Rescue, the rescuer should guide the rescuee to hold onto the stern of their own kayak. Walk your way around to the bow of the rescuee's kayak.

Reach down and grab their bow, and lift their kayak, keeping it inverted. Commit yourself to using the rescuee's boat for support--trying to maintain balance by sitting upright will make the rescue less effective. Also, rolling toward their boat will help you to lift their boat as you roll back away from the water and up.

Having the rescuee push down on their stern will make your lifting job easier. On boats equipped with a rudder, the rescuee may find it more convenient to hang onto the rescuer's bow.

Rotate their boat upright once their cockpit has broken free of the water's surface and poured out.

Bring the boats bow-to-stern, and throw your body over the rescuee's foredeck. Have the rescuee kick their legs to the surface, and "seal glide" onto their rear deck and toward your foredeck. Guide their legs into their cockpit, and have them keep their weight low. Once their hips pass the coaming, have them turn toward you, and lower their hips into their seat. Maintain contact with the rescuee and stay rafted until they have their sprayskirt re-attached and ready to go.