A complete course in sea kayaking for paddlers of all levels of expertise.

First published in 1976, the 40th anniversary edition of The Complete Book of Sea Kayaking is a comprehensive guide for the beginner and an invaluable reference book for the experienced sea kayaker. It describes equipment, basic and advanced techniques, weather and navigation, and is illustrated throughout.

"...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

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 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.

The most comprehensive guide for sea kayakers of all levels First published in 1976, The Complete Book of Sea Kayaking is a comprehensive guide for the beginner and an invaluable reference book for the experienced sea kayaker. Originally penned by the late Derek C. Hutchinson, an international authority on sea kayaking, it describes equipment, basic and advanced techniques, weather and navigation, and is illustrated throughout by the author’s own drawings and color photographs. This new 40th anniversary edition has been completely updated in line with the latest sea kayaking developments by Wayne Horodowich, a longtime friend of Hutchinson's and the founder of University of Sea Kayaking.