I surf SOTs in ocean waves, get knocked off many times each session,
and have to get back on before I get pounded by the next wave. There
are 2 steps that you need to be ready for. First, you may have to
turn the boat right-side up. The easiest way to do this is at the
side of the boat, reaching under, lifting up the near side and
flipping or throwing it over. Two, get in. I've always found it
faster to get in from the side but it depends on the style of your
boat. A boat with high sides may be hard to get back in regardless.
If speed is your concern I would practice getting in from the side so
you can flip it right-side up (if you have to) and climb in without
having to waste time changing positions in the water. Wear a PFD!

Jacob

And the winner is......

......... getting in from the side!

Thanks y'all for your advice. I ended up practicing in the
Intercoastal River and it is, indeed, really easy to get in from the
side. (-: now I am ready for the gator infested waters of our
marshes and rivers I suppoe/hope :-)

Kind regards!