A couple of mentions are made...
Posted by: Bob_d
on Dec-05-12 8:18 PM (EST)
above, of using your paddle as a brace while you get in your boat. If you are thinking of giving this a try consider having the paddle extend out to the water side rather than place it against the shore. It is surprising how much support it will give you and the blade in the water acts as a damper to any unsteadiness you may experience.
The only reason I mention this is that by bracing against the shore many people tend to place a lot of weight on the paddle rather than centering their weight over the boat. This can damage your paddle, especially if it has an aluminium shaft. I use a carbon wing blade for the majority of my paddling and wouldn't dream of placing it against the shore (concrete boat ramp).