Combines the logic of a lesson plan with the grace of informality to teach the essence of kayaking.

The most comprehensive manual on how to kayak safely in a wide variety of sea environments--from inland waterways to ocean rock gardens, tide rips, surf zones, and the open ocean. Aimed at beginners through experienced kayakers, this book describes how to deal with hazards, not just avoid them, using real-life, extensively tested techniques proven to work. You'll learn fundamental skills for recovery and rescue, and master safe paddling techniques in ocean conditions. Numerous photos accompany step-by-step descriptions of the Eskimo roll, towing methods, self- and partner-rescues, backup strategies, and group dynamics. The second edition has a fresh chapter on fine-tuning your strokes, which will significantly increase kayaking fun and safety.

This concise introductory handbook is packed with expert advice and contains all the essential information a novice needs to hit the water while providing a quick reference for the more experienced paddler.

A practical guide that will help you to master the skills needed to manoeuvre a sea kayak efficiently. For beginner and intermediate paddlers. Doug draws on his personal and coaching experience to help the reader master sea kayak handling skills and techniques. Accurate sequential photos and simple concise language make the descriptions easy to follow and understand. The foundation skills of posture, connectivity (how your body is connected to the kayak), power transfer and learning to 'feel' how the boat responds, are explored initially. The author then goes on to tackle forward paddling, keeping the kayak on course, reverse paddling, edging, turning on the spot, forward turns on the move, reverse turns on the move, stern rudders, moving sideways, support strokes, and the use of skegs and rudders. Sea Kayak Handling is recommended as support material for the British Canoe Union 3 and 4 Star (Sea) awards. (The 1 star is a novice 'encouragement' award, the 2 star covers basic generic kayak skills, the 3 star basic/intermediate sea specific skills and experience, and the 4 star covers intermediate sea specific skills and leadership in moderate conditions).

This book is a modern guide to sea kayaking by one of the leading exponents of the sport who is also a highly respected coach in this field. Gordon Brown is a BCU Level 5 sea coach based on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. He shares his knowledge with you in his own succinct humorous style and very visual approach. In this book Gordon covers topics of kayaking history, physiology, boat and paddle dynamics, seamanship and navigation, safety and rescue, weather forecasting, caves, rockhopping and tidal races, expeditions and overnighting, as well as a wealth of tips and resources for the sea paddler. This is a visually stunning book printed on 170gsm silk paper filled with top quality photographs. Over seventy photographs and illustrations help to make this an essential modern manual for the sea kayaker.

Expanded to include sections on seamanship, navigation, and health issues, the completely updated and redesigned new edition of David Seidman’s bestselling guide reaffirms its reputation as the best sea kayaking guide available. A top-to-bottom introduction for novice and mid-level kayakers, this highly visual handbook provides kayakers with the whole scoop on everything from gear, transportation, and paddling technique to the finer points of Eskimo rolling, rescue protocol, group and solo paddling.

At last, a practical, hands-on manual of navigation techniques for the coastal kayaker! Lee Moyer, sea kayak designer, manufacturer, instructor, and store owner, reveals all the techniques a sea kayaker needs to know to be safe on open water. Lee's straightforward, practical simplified approach will make the reader want to run right out and try the techniques described. Who would have thought learning navigation could be such fun! Learn how to plan a trip (including full chart preparation); plot a course (including open-water crossings and island-hopping); read charts and compasses (including knowing the difference between magnetic and true north, and how to use each); account for current, wind, and waves in your planning and paddling; paddle at night; avoid the other guys on the water. This book will help you become a safer kayaker and give you the tools to have more fun on the water!