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.

This is a modern illustrated how-to guide to kayaking, with authoritative information for beginners as well as the experienced paddler, all delivered with humor and enthusiasm. Presented in color with easy-to-follow, step-by-step photographic sequences and inspirational action images, this manual covers everything from flat water through to ocean paddling, white water and surfing. The book also explains the clothing and equipment required for every type of kayaking and, of course, the boats and paddles themselves, as well as weather, hydrodynamics, safety and rescue.

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).

Completely updated to reflect the latest in paddling equipment and kayak technology, William Nealy’s illustrated kayaking manual is as practical as it is dead-on hilarious. Whether detailing hardcore hippy hairboaters or insane youngsters clattering tiny play boats down steep, rocky creeks, Nealy is back and more useful and entertaining than ever. Over 400 illustrations help Nealy break down even the most complex kayaking skills, making difficult whitewater techniques understandable. You may break a rib laughing, but with Nealy holding your hand you’ll be less likely to break a bone while boofing an insane rapid (or maybe an entire waterfall).

The Art of Kayaking is the distilled essence of a lifetime of kayak instruction at all skill levels around the world, with the added insights gained from years of designing kayaks, paddles, and kayaking equipment. This comprehensive kayaking manual by one of the biggest names in kayaking offers more essential detail about commonly used techniques than ever before published in a single volume. Color photo action sequences show how to perfect skills, and how to apply them. Maps, tables, and diagrams walk the reader through essential planning steps. No matter which type of kayak, paddle, or style of paddling the reader prefers, the appropriate techniques are described clearly and concisely. The progression through the book makes it easy to start as a beginner and to access as much information as can be tackled at any stage of development up to and including the expert. It is a definitive manual designed to stand the test of time.

" ... [This book] leads you step-by-step through the process of creating your own lashed-frame, fabric-covered, custom-fitted Greenland kayak, using inexpensive, easy-to-find materials and common woodworking tools. ..."--Back cover.

"...Her writing is clear and concise, sprinkled with bits of humor and many tips gleamed from her years working as a kayak instructor, guide and outfitter." --Sea Kayaker Magazine The first edition of The Complete Sea Kayaker's Handbook received immediate acclaim with its selection as the Best Outdoor Instructional Book by the National Outdoor Book Award group. Now this book boasts 352 pages with changes throughout to reflect the growth of kayaking as a sport. This book is your first step to adventure on the water, with everything you need to know, from buying a kayak to dressing for the water. Updates include: New photos throughout showing new boats, equipment, stretching, and repair techniques A new section on used boats and how to shop for them Expanded sections on: boat materials section to include the newer laminates; buying a new kayak; use of GPS for navigation; family paddling; Planning Your Dream Trip; Taking Care of Your Stuff to include more retrofit and repair information on a wider range of boat and paddle material Improvements in materials and more data on hypothermia; Changes in safety technique descriptions reflecting the new equipment on the market information on stretching, proper posture in a kayak, and easy modifications to kayak seats for more comfortable paddling Topics include: Getting Ready; Kayaks; Accessories and Clothing; Getting to Know Your Kayak; Controlling Your Kayak; Getting Into and Out of the Water; Real Life Paddling; Finding Your Way: Kayak Navigation; Trip Logistics; Group safety; Kayak Camping; Planning Your Dream Trip; Taking Care of Your Stuff

A companion book to the "Trailside" PBS-TV series guides beginners from still waters to paddling downriver, exploring local waterways, or touring offshore islands, with a survey of the latest boat designs and equipment.