In my kayak, I often take the sections apart to fix any tip issues, especially in the salt
But, I only take the sections apart, if the rod is strung!
(I've learned my lesson on that issue and the is no reason to go in to that )
Sticking the reel in the water is not a good idea in the salt, so taking the rod apart is it the way I always do it.
Bad experiences tend to accelerate the learning process