I have an extra challenge: a dock 12+ inches above the water level. And water too muddy & weedy to flirt with getting into the water. No injuries but a little overweight, aged 61 & not an athlete. Spent my first summer trying 100s of different methods with my family scoring each effort 1-10 (this was during the Olympics). Final methods that got me perfect 10s:
To get in, pull the side of kayak up to the dock, sit on the edge of the dock with legs hanging into the cockpit in front of the seat and just drop in. I also have a leash attached to the front that I can hang on to if I want to lower myself more slowly. Feels sketchy but has never failed me. I have a typical rec kayak (Pelican Mustang 100) so pretty hard to tip.
To get out is a little trickier. Pull along side dock. Pull feet as close to butt as possible (wish I could get them under the seat), reach far forward & grab the post of the dock & pull yourself up (I have tried pulling myself up with the leash but canāt manage it). For a second you are standing in the kayak which definitely feels sketchy but quickly drop your butt onto the dock. Now you have to stand up on the dock so I recommend a quick check to make sure no one is watching as you boost your ass into the air. A great loss of dignity but weāll worth it. In my case the water is shallow enough and the kayak is between the dock posts and cattails so no need to tie up to the dock but thatās an option.
As my skeleton & muscles crumbles, Iāll have to adapt but Iām never giving up. Will install a crane lift if necessary!