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White Water Kayaking: Strong Contender for Your Adventure Craving

What is the real form of adventure? For most of the people, white water kayaking is the synonym for real adventure, where you are unaware of next move of the water on which you are riding. This clears the fact that whitewater kayaking is meant for those, who want to experience the most thrilling form of an adventure sport. It is the right platform to experience proportionate ingredients of thrill, fear, excitement and fun. Thus, people having a spirit to bear the challenge of dangerous river routes are welcome to the world of kayaking. Also, if you have experience of participating in other water sports like white water rafting, it is going to lend help to you for kayaking.

Fine Line of Difference

In case of white water kayaking, there is a thin line of difference between novice kayakers and those having years of expertise. The reason behind this is that you have absolutely no idea of your next turn in this adventurous trip.

However, it is better to learn expert strategies of being a kayaker and to help you with this, you can approach many professional schools which provide training in the sport. Still, you need to experience the real face of whitewater kayaking, which is only possible by going for a kayaking trip.

Right Guidelines For Beginners

Here is the compilation of most worthy guidelines to help you mark your successful beginning in the world of white water kayaking:

Choose the right kayak for yourself. Never commit the mistake of kayaking alone or in a group of two, especially in the beginning.

Another important aspect of kayaking is that you must understand the movement of your muscles in operating a kayak.

Just like whitewater rafting, your sitting postures and ways of handling paddles also play critical roles in deciding the value of your kayaking experience.

Last, but not the least, learn about safety parameters and equipments to ensure a safe and fun-filled kayaking experience for you.

Also, it is important to avail packages for white water kayaking from the right resources like Real Adventures. Having years of experience in organizing adventure trips, the company can offer you the all-inclusive trips to the destination of your choice. Some of the adventurous sports trips offered by them are white water rafting, canoeing and kayaking, which are good options for your and your family's recreation. So, take out time to visit www.realadventures.com and plan your trip right away.

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Your Questions About Kayaking Terms

Mandy asks…

What does the kayaking term "tracking" mean?

Brad Selers answers:

The term tracking in kayaking refers to how straight of a path the kayak takes in the water. Short kayak are easy to turn therefore they track poorly and hard harder to keep in a straight line. Meanwhile, longer kayak are harder to turn which means that they track very well. Longer kayaks are prefered for open waters such as lakes and bays, while short kayaks are prefered for rivers, creeks, and ponds.

Maria asks…

What does the term, "Hot Dog" mean when applied to skiing and kayaking? Where did the name come from?

Brad Selers answers:

Http://www.sportsdefinitions.com/skiing-freestyle-skiing/Hotdog-skiing.html

Michael asks…

What happens if you put more weight in a kayak than the allowed weight limit?

We just bought a kayak which has a posted weight limit of 250lbs. This is not a problem for me, but my husband is a big guy and weighs about 290 lbs. Would the kayak sink if he tried to take it out on the water? He is able to sit in it, since the opening is pretty wide. What kind of wiggle room is there in terms of the weight limit on a kayak? Thanks.
The kayak is a closed sit-in (not sit-on-top) kayak.
It's for flat water.

Brad Selers answers:

Is this a closed boat? Whitewater or flat water? It shouldn't sink but it will definitely ride lower in the water and might be harder to handle and more apt to roll in rough water, particularly if he is a tall guy. I'd recommend using full flotation bags and a spray skirt if it's a closed boat to minimize water in the boat. He should also make sure he practices a wet exit (flip the boat over, exit the cockpit underwater, turn the boat over and try to climb back in) under controlled conditions (like in a pool or in still water near the shore or dock) before he goes out any distance to make sure he doesn't get hung up in the boat if it flips.

If it's an open boat (like a sit-on-top) he'll just have more problems with water washing in over the gunnels since he's lower in the water -- make sure he has a hand pump for quick bailing.

Chris asks…

How can I get six pack abs while drinking a six pack a day?

In terms of my current excercize routine I sleep, work behind a desk all day, then get in my kayak and paddle 4 to 16 miles every day while guzzling beer, wine and the occasional "Sparks" or "Snake Eyes" caffinated malt beverage. This routine has made look downright hot, except for my rotund belly. That and I also suffer from spastic facial muscle twitching, memory loss, and fits of hysterical blindness, but those things are just natural. Back to the belly. Can I burn it off without curbing my drinking?

Brad Selers answers:

Virtually impossible Ive been trying for 20 years with no noticeable results

Joseph asks…

How expensive are things on the Cayman Islands?

Hi! My parents are sending me and my fiance somewhere in the Caribbean for our honeymoon. They are covering our airfare and hotel stay (using miles and points), but we will have to pay for all our food and activities. They were thinking of sending us to the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, but I was wondering how expensive the Cayman Islands are in terms of food and activities. How much would we expect to pay for a casual meal, a snorkeling trip, a kayak rental, a museum admission, and things like that?

Thanks so much for you your help!

Brad Selers answers:

Here are a couple of links for you to look over. The first one will give you an idea pricing for activites .

Http://www.caymanislandsdiscounts.com/Activities.htm

This link is for dining.

Http://www.caymanrestaurants.com/

Dining will cost you 20%-30% higher in the Cayman Islands.

Cayman Islands is an expensive island. For every Cayman dollar it will cost you 1.20 US. If a entree is $25.00 Cayman that will be $30 US. If you have a glass of wine for 7.00 Cayman, that will be 8.40 US.

The Ritz Carlton is the top of the line resort, expect to pay dearly for food and drink at this resort.

If you go off resort, you will find more reasonble dining options.

The Cayman Islands are beautiful and you will have a wonderful honeymoon for sure. Good luck and congrats)

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A Guide to Kayaks for the Beginners

Kayaking is an enthralling experience for the ones who know all about it. However, for the beginners the story is a little different. Choosing a kayak is the first step before you can start kayaking. As there are different types of kayaks available today, such as fishing kayaks, leisure kayaks and surf play kayaks, it is important to understand which one would suit you best. The type of usage can is the main consideration here.

It is also important to understand the materials used for making kayaks, as it helps in determining the safety and ease of kayaking. Once decided, you can choose the related equipment and start kayaking. It is not just important to be able to use the kayak but it is equally imperative to learn how be to be safe while you are using the kayak.

The best and the most preferred type of kayak is the fishing kayak. It is considered to be fashionable and extremely favorable for everyone, especially for the beginners. Fishing is a good pastime and kayaking is also convenient to get into the areas of fishing without feeling very scared about it. You can find two different types of fishing kayaks today - the one on which you sit on the top, and the other that has a cockpit. Both of these are comfortable and extremely exciting to be used.

Kayaks with cockpit are generally preferred as you get a separate sitting area. With these kinds of kayaks, though, it is important to realize that water oftentimes does get into the boat. If you're sitting in the cockpit area, there's a good chance that you'll end up wet.

Kayaks without cockpit are equally beneficial considering the fact that you can conveniently move your body and reach out to the shallow water to find fish. If you are a water lover and you want to spend hours in the water, these kayaks can be the perfect choice for you.

Leisure kayaks are also great for starters. As the name suggests, leisure kayaks are meant for leisure moments and they have been tailored to live up to their name. These kayaks usually have additional compartments for luggage and food allowing their owner to stay on the water for days at a time touring from place to place. These kayaks are preferably used on calm water.

Kayaks are the ultimate form of fun transportation for people who love water and fishing. With more modernized and innovative designs and creativity, more and more kayaks have been developed these days to take you on a ride and to maintain your safety as well. Unlike in the past, today's kayaks are much safer and competent to give you a leisure time amidst the calm waters. You can relax and spend your time without worrying about your safety as the kayaks are well crafted to provide you a thrill without endangering your well-being.

Choose and kayak and start your kayaking session today. You'll love it!

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Your Questions About Kayaking Magazine

John asks…

need web-site for Canoe&Kayak magazine?

Brad Selers answers:

The website is www.canoekayak.com

Daniel asks…

What are some magazines that I can try to publish my work in?

I can write non fiction about sailing, kayaking and about my recent trip to Ghana where we worked at a school.
Also, I can write girly stuff about boyfriends and friends and stuff.
I can also write fantasy/adventure- short stories sort of thing.

So does anyone know any magazines that I could submit my work to??
Also, how does one do this? Do you just send stuff in or do they give you a topic to write about?
Thanks for the help!!

Brad Selers answers:

How about the Readers Digest

Robert asks…

Years ago I read an article about a man-made kayak park with a conveyor system. Has this park been built yet?

The water entry point was elevated so you would ride the man-made river down until reaching a pool at the bottom. Then, a large belt conveyor system would carry you and the kayak back up to the entry point. You would not have to get out of the kayak. I read this years ago in a magazine, but I misplaced the magazine and can't remember any details.

Brad Selers answers:

There are a few. Searching around, I found a couple. One at Adventure Sport Center International in Maryland:

http://www.adventuresportscenter.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=74&Itemid=119

and one being planned in Perth:

http://www.whitewaterperth.org.au/pages/Plan.html

The number of whitewater parks in general have grown over the past several years, but most don't have a conveyor. Most of the courses I've seen are fairly short and include a couple park-and-play spots and a slalom course that spans a few hundred yards.

James asks…

Does CBS have to substantiate what they put on the Bios of Survivor cast members?

I was just reading Coach's bio on CBS.com and I was wondering if he wrote it himself or if someone at CBS did? I just don't believe a lot of the stuff he says and it's on his bio! It also says that he holds the world record for the longest solo Kayak trip at 6,132 miles. But I found a site that says a guy named Paul Caffyn kayaked more than 9,000 miles in 1980 and 1981. (According to Jeff Moag, editor of Canoe & Kayak Magazine) So what's the truth? Does anyone know if they lie on the Survivor bios?

Brad Selers answers:

Since there news department has no problem fabricating news I doubt the entertainment division has anything stopping them from making stuff up.

Donald asks…

Are these good extra-curriculars for school?

*JV Girl's Tennis
*National Honor Society
*Math Team
*Culinary Club
*Literary Magazine
*Diversity Club
*Peak Student Leadership (organizing trips for lower and middle school, kayaking 20 miles, canoeing, mountain biking, helping with trips, scuba diving, etc.) *my favorite club!
*Volunteering at American Redcross

I am not doing these clubs just because I want them on my resume. I enjoy all these activities! I love to be busy. I want to know if this is a good list of activities. Some clubs only meet every 2 weeks during a free period at school. It shouldn't be too much of a load. I was also wondering if colleges care if you do a JV sport and not a varsity sport. I really want to go to Duke University. I want to start planning know to see what is the best for me. I am worried that these extra-curriculars will not be good enough since I don't do a varsity sport. Does it really matter if you do a JV sport? We practice more than the Varsity!
Do you think I will be able to get into Duke with these extra-curriculars?

Brad Selers answers:

They seem good. Make sure you can handle both the clubs and your school work. You can move up to varsity next year/later.

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The Basic Guide to Kayak Fishing

It takes a long time to become an expert in kayak fishing. The period of apprenticeship, which must be served in order to transform the novice into a veteran kayak angler can be discouraging and often runs into years.

About the nearest thing to a short cut is to have an old-timer take the first-timer under his wing and let the novice accompany him on kayak fishing trips

Basically, kayak fishing is gradually making a name in the industry. Its popularity is steadily creating sustainable gratifications aside from the fact that kayaks have long been used in fishing.

History has it that even in the early times; kayak fishing has long been the primary source of fish supply ranging from the "flatfish halibut" to other kinds of big fish. These activities, which happened from the mid 18th Century until the late part of it, were all noted by the Russian Orthodox priests. These turn of events are now known as "The Native History"

From then on, kayak fishing continued to dominate the fishing industry, where once, people were doubtful if it could really aid the anglers to catch some fish. The steady feature brought about by its "sit-on" type has long been the primary characteristics of kayaks that made it an ideal fishing boat.

However, with kayak fishing, the angler has to learn how to steady the kayak as he tries to paddle through the waters, in which it is considered as part of the whole process.

Therefore, for people who wish to know some tips about kayak fishing, here's a list that may help them enjoy this tricky activity.

1. Safety first

Like any activity, it is necessary that before an individual plunges into action, he or she must first observe some safety measures and background checks to ensure security and protection against any imminent danger.

The angler must check the weather condition, the tide, and other elements concerning kayaking.

2. Hatches should be closed at all times

The angler should always keep in mind that it is best to keep the hatches closed while fishing. Water can never seep through the kayak if the hatches are kept closed.

3. Steady fishing

When the angler is already in the midst of the waters, it is better to have an anchor to keep the kayak steady while on the verge of catching fish.

Best of all, before an individual goes out to the waters, it would be better if he let somebody know his whereabouts. In this way, somebody will be able to keep track of your activity.

As they say, safety should always come first.

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How Business Is Like Kayaking

One might think I humbled myself enough with my infiltration into the world of snowboard riders, yet summer brought on the urge to jam myself into a plastic floaty the size of a toothpaste tube and brave jagged rocks, wild frothy rapids and frequent oxygen deprivation. I got hooked on kayaking.

I had been thinking about taking up kayaking for more than twenty years. The notion always got squashed for a variety of reasons. When my friend suddenly announced he had begun taking kayaking lessons, I was motivated to take the leap. Next thing you know, Richard and I were floating down the Nechako River together, occasionally both right-side-up at the same time.

We?re no strangers to being upside down. As business partners we had just come to the conclusion that our business was dragging us into the dirt and had recently decided to lay-off our eight employees and get on with our lives. Bobbing down through rapids upside down with no oxygen felt like our comfort zone.

In kayaking, you must challenge hydraulics, risk and fear. In business you must do the same. The marketplace has its own version of hydraulics. You will do well to learn as much about them as you can through your business planning. However, once you?re in business or on the river, your background learning will take second place to pure instinct and sharp reflexes.

In kayaking, you must learn the basics before tackling the big league stretches of water. Your first task is to learn the rules, learn about safety, how to paddle, and how to wear the gear. Business is the same. Ease yourself into business by learning how to serve customers, how to listen, how to create the product or service, how to say please and thank you. Common etiquette and basic knowledge will carry you through and lot of challenging turbulence.

When kayaking, you must learn to read the water prior to placing yourself at risk. In business you must continually keep one eye on the horizon, watching for clues, risks, threats and opportunities. When paddling through rapids, it is critical to keep your paddle in the water at all times and to keep paddling no matter what. This provides you with the stability required to stay upright.

When the going gets rough in business, you must continue to lean forward and work hard. As with kayaking, you will be amazed at how your tenacity and courage pull you through stretches that appear impossible.

You must find a kayak that suits your style. It must be the right size for you and designed for your level of skill and knowledge. Your business must be appropriate for your knowledge, skills and abilities.

When kayaking, you must use a boat designed for the type of water you will navigate. A kayak designed for the river current will only drain your energy in a lake or the sea. In business, use the form or structure most appropriate for the business you?re in. If an inexpensive proprietorship will do, why form a costly corporation?

In kayaking, you must learn to create balance, even when your equilibrium is totally skewed. In business you must do the same. This means balance between work and play, fast and slow, sales and expenses, products and services.

Keep your eyes on where you want to go, not on what you fear. This applies to both kayaking and business. If you focus on what you fear, you will find yourself there. This is a fundamental key to success. Focus on where you wish to be, not where you fear you might end up. Keep your eyes on the prize, not your demise.

You will come up against huge rocks or barriers. It is critical that you learn how to navigate through or around these challenges. Sometimes a change in course of a couple degrees can be the difference between life and death.

Dan Boudreau makes business planning achievable, fast and fun. Want to learn more about how to do your own business plan? Subscribe to the RiskBuster Newsletter and instantly download a free copy of Dan's popular fast-track business plan template

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Plan a Kayak and Hiking Tour for Holiday to Crete

Kayaking and hiking is the best way to enjoy your holiday to Crete. You can spend three days kayaking and hiking around the areas of Samaria Gorge, Sfakia, Sougia and Paleochora. You will enjoy the scenery from the water, which is the only way to experience Crete. A typical itinerary will be arriving in Chania and spending the night. The next day you can get up and travel to Paleochora where you can get yourself situated for the trip. You will be able to swim and lie in the sun on the beach of the Libyan Sea. This is the start of your adventure.

The third day will find you kayaking to Sougia and Lissos. You can see the ancient ruins and the graves located in Lissos. This is the part of your cheap holidays to Crete that you will find intriguing. As you move away from Lissos towards Sougia, you will enjoy the scenery on the way. You will arrive in Sougia and can enjoy some swimming and maybe even a seafood dinner. The next day you will do some hiking in Omalos. The area is very beautiful and will see the Agia Irini gorge then travel to the outpost. On day five you are on your way to Samaria Gorge and Agia Roumeli for some more hiking.

The hike is rather intense because of the steep inclines, but the trails are very well groomed. At the bottom of the gorge, you can pretty much do what ever you want. You can sit and enjoy the view or even have a picnic lunch. After a rest period, you can continue to Agia Rousmeli, which is a small fishing village. Your holiday to Crete will delight you, but this type of trip is exciting and very adventurous for everyone.

Day six you will leave in the kayak for Loutro. On your way, you want to stop and glaze at the Byzantine Church. The architecture is incredible and the fact that it is a beachside church is interesting. On day seven, you will move down the water to Sfakia, but you will wan to stop at Sweet Water Beach. You can only reach this beach from the water or take a very long hike. Therefore, it will be secluded and empty. Once you get to Sfakia, you will take a bus back to your starting point, Chania where you will spend the night.

If you have planned your holidays to Crete around this tour, you will have seen some of the most incredible places that can only be experienced or seen from the water. You can dine one of the Chania restaurants and maybe even enjoy a little nightlife before leaving. You will need to take along some lightweight clothing and a pair of hiking boots for hiking and a pair of shoes for kayaking. The tour group will supply everything else you need. You just have to enjoy the scenery and have a great time. That is what this tour is all about when you leave your destination.

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Your Questions About Kayaking in Kauai

Sharon asks…

Any recommendations for a kayaking trip in Kauai?

Looking for best value for what you pay. We also have 2 kids, ages 12 & 10.

Brad Selers answers:

You can kayak in 2 spots.

On the northside in Hanalei, try Kayak Hanalei. They have a kayak tour on the Hanalei river and it is a very fun trip. The guides are extremely friendly and will assist you in any way possible.

On the eastside in Kapaa, try Smiths Family. You can kayak the wailua river all the way up to waterfalls where you can swin and have a pic-nic lunch.

They are both very different and extremely fun.

Sandra asks…

Anyone do a kayak tour in Kauai, and what one is best?

For May 2008. The tours that go to the wildlife refuge look interesting.

Brad Selers answers:

You can try this web-site. I don't kayak but several people have when they came to visit me on Kauai and they all said this was the best adventure of their trips. You might also pick up a book called "The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook" by Wizard Publications. This is the VERY BEST guidebook to the island and all that it has to offer. Enjoy your time in paradise.
ALOHA!!

Http://www.kayakwailua.com

Paul asks…

going to kauai in august. what are some good adventures to take?

i'm an outdoorsy person so i would like activity suggestions that involve going out and hiking, biking, kayaking...anything human powered and suggestions for less crowded locations/activities if you know of them.

Brad Selers answers:

You can rent a kayak and go on your own or with a tour. One is to kayak up the Wailua river, strap the kayak up to a tree and hike about a mile to a waterfall. We did this on our own, so if you have experience kayaking then you shouldn't have any problems doing it yourself. Popular places to rent or go on a tour with is http://www.kayakkauai.com or They also have kayaking up the Na Pali coast, which is unbelievable. I would recommend going with a group for that one. Another company is http://www.outfitterskauai.com/

Hiking - recommend the Na Pali hike. The Na Pali coast is an area of the island that you cannot go by car.. You can either get there by sea or hiking... People mostly only do the hike to Hanakapi'ai beach, but if you experienced enough.. You can do the whole Na Pali hike, which is 11 miles one way. People camp at the sites along the way for this long hike. I haven't dont this 11 mile hike ( I only did the one to Hanakapi'ai) but I can only imagine that it must be wonderful, because the Na Pali coast is amazing. If you plan on doing the long hike, you might want to look into getting a book on the hike. There are many books about hiking in Kauai and the many trails, so you might want to get one of those at least. Otherwise, Hanakapi'ai is a nice short hike.

The zipline is popular. Go to http://www.kauaibackcountry.com/ They're the vendor and they also have a tubing adventure.

Hope this helps you some.

Sandy asks…

What is there to do on the island of Kauai? 10 Points available!?

I know you can go to beaches, shop, and go on tours on boats and helicopters, but is there anything else I can do? I want to do something that I couldn`t do at home, like kayak around the island. Thanks in advance :)

Brad Selers answers:

You can kayak, but unless you are VERY experienced, I recommend going with a guide and doing the Wailua River rather than the ocean.

I have done the zipline and innertube rides with the following company:
www.kauaibackcountry.com
and both are a lot of fun!

You can also take a catamaran trip (I recommend Captain Andy's over Holo Holo and Blue Dolphin, but all are decent companies with a good tour) to see spinner dolphins and sometimes Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles (honu). They will stop at a point on the tour and let you snorkel or hang out on a boogie board and they serve a really good lunch.

David asks…

Maui or Kauai? Want to relax & play.?

I am planning a trip to Hawaii. I have a timeshare and have narrowed it down to Maui or Kauai, just not sure which. We are bringing kids (9 & 11), and we want to relax, explore nature, hike, sight-see, but also love action, adrenaline rushes, sports. So surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, are also desired. I prefer more natural surroundings with not tons of people. Not interested in clubs.

Brad Selers answers:

I'm going to say Maui. Yes, it is more crowded than Kauai; however, it is NOTHING like Oahu. The population is much less then Oahu. Also, the island is bigger than Oahu and Kauai! There is more to do on Maui. If you want a more quiet area to stay in, i suggest Wailea. Yes, it is the most expensive area, but It is also much less crowded than Kaanapali. There is so much to do. Your kids will love Maui. I will list some things to do:

-Visit the summit of haleakala.
-drive the road to hana [beautiful! This is where you will get your natural site seeing that you want!]
-para-sailing
-jet skiing
-you can take a boat snorkel tour to molokini crater
-take a boat/snorkle tour to the small islands of Lanai or Molokai.
-Visit molokai for a day! See the TALLEST sea cliffs in the world!!!!

I say Maui. It has everything you ask for. I also find it beuaitful because it is very close to the islands od Kahoolawe, Lanai, and Molokai. It truly is beautiful to be able to see these islands when you step out onto the lanai of your hotel room.

Enjoy your wonderful vacation.

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Five Tips for Getting Started With Kayaking

Kayaking is a great sport that combines physical activity with the beauty and tranquility of nature. If you would like to get started with this sport, there are a few things you need to know. As with any form of outdoor recreation, learning the basics before you begin will make your kayaking adventure much more enjoyable.

Tip 1 - Choose the Right Kayak

Choosing the right kayak is the first step on your adventure. There are many different types out there. The boat that is right for you will depend on your goals as a kayak enthusiast.

First, what type of water will you be using your boat on? Calm water and fast-moving water require different boats. Are you going to paddle by yourself, or will you want someone else with you? How often do you anticipate using your boat? The more often you use it, the more durable you will want the kayak to be.

You can always rent kayaks first to get the feel for the different types that are available. Once you have chosen the right boat, carefully time your purchase. Buying in the off-season will help you get an affordable price. You can also shop online or buy your boat through the classifieds. Before shopping, however, make sure you know what you want. Visit a few showrooms to get an idea of what is available.

Tip 2 - Getting the Right Gear

Other than the boat itself, what do you need to start kayaking? One of the most important pieces of safety equipment that every person in a kayak needs is a PFD, or Personal Flotation Device. These are high-tech life vests that will keep you above water if the boat should capsize. Kayaking requires a Type II or Type V PFD. These are lightweight, fairly easy to put on, and quite fashionable, not like the life vests you are probably picturing.

Typically, the more you pay for a PFD the more comfortable it will be. The more expensive models have softer foam and can be adjusted easier than the cheaper options. If you need to save money, consider buying new.

The other piece of equipment you will need is a kayak paddle. If you can, try out a variety of paddle types. If you do not have this luxury, you will probably be happy with an aluminum shaft adjustable paddle with a flat blade that has blunt or tapered ends as you are beginning your kayaking adventure. After you have learned more about the sport you may want to upgrade your paddle, but this paddle will give you the flexibility you need to paddle in a variety of situations.

Tip 3 - Getting in and out of the Kayak

Now that you have a kayak and your basic gear, you are ready to begin. You take your boat to the river, don your PFD, and suddenly realize you have no idea how to get into the kayak. Here is what you need to know.

If you are in shallow water, dip your paddle into the water and brace it against the side of the kayak to keep it steady. You can also use the dock edge to steady the boat if you are in deep water. Once the boat is steady, sit on the edge of the dock with your legs hanging over the side. Line your feet up evenly with your entry point, and drop the line into the cockpit. Swing one foot and then the other into the cockpit, crouch down, and sit. Grab your paddle, adjust your line so it is out of the way, and you are ready to go. Getting out of the kayak is basically the same, only backwards. Be sure to keep a good hand on your paddle so that you do not lose it.

Tip 4 - Paddle Correctly

Paddling does involve exercise, but it should not be exhausting. Avoid using a motion that is similar to digging into the sand. Instead, lean back in your seat and relax. This not only helps you paddle more efficiently, but it also keeps the boat stable. Hold the paddle in both hands using an over-handed hold. Your thumbs should be underneath the bar. Let your torso make most of the movements. Pull with the arm that is making the downward stroke and push the shaft away with the arm that is making the upward stroke. This sounds complicated, but you will get the rhythm as you practice.

Tip 5 - Be Prepared

There are some things that you need to have ready in order to be safe on the water. Make sure that you have an audible safety signal device clipped to your PFD. Also, be sure that you have a spare paddle, especially if your kayaking trip will be long. Paddles can get lost in deep water, so having a spare is always a good idea. This can be a collapsible paddle if you need to save room.

Before you leave, check the weather and water conditions, not just in your current location, but also at your destination. If a storm is approaching, postpone your trip. This is essential if you are a beginner, because a sudden storm could mean disaster.

A repair kit and first aid kit are also important. Be sure that your repair kit includes some duct tape. Your first aid kit must be contained in an airtight, waterproof container. Finally, pack a flashlight, even if you do not intend to be on the water at night. If you get stranded after dark, a flashlight will keep you safe and help you find your way to shore.

With these tips, you should be as prepared as possible to start kayaking. Remember to go with experienced kayak enthusiasts the first few times you go out, as they can help you with the problems you will face as you learn this exciting sport.

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Your Questions About Lifetime Kayak Experiences

Sandra asks…

I want to be picked to go on a once and a lifetime experience!?

My teacher has a trip where you kayak/canoe down the Current river into Ozarks Missouri. You camp along the river for a week while also jumping off cliffs and exploring caves and butt-bumping in rapid water (called this b/c you might hit ur butt on the rocks!) I really want to get picked by my teacher, WHAT CAN I DO?!?!?!?!?!?

Brad Selers answers:

You are being very vague. The best I can tell you is act very mature in class, participate, get the greatest grades you can, and be sure to subtly remind her that you are interested in going. Or just ask her plainly yourself.

Maria asks…

Alaskan Cruise or Alaska by land?

My husband and I were planning Alaskan cruise this September (haven't booked it yet), and got super excited about the excursions. We're active and are planning to do the zip line, snorkeling, and close-up whale watching.

Now we've found out that the cruise line we plan to go with (we have a very limited timeframe) is one with the formal and semiformal evenings, which is something we're putting in our "CON" column.

We're looking forward to the in-port activities, but are afraid we'll be bored on the ship. The book we have paints a picture of a much older group. While we can certainly behave with necessary decorum for formal and semiformal dining situations, it is not "fun" for us. We're considering flying directly into Juneau and exploring Alaska by land.

What say you who have done both? We'd love to take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities this vacation has to offer. We're in our late 30's. . .should we save our cruising for when we can't physically kayak and zipline?

Brad Selers answers:

Cruising can be great if you're price sensitive, as hotels in Alaska are expensive during peak season and can be hard to find unless booked ahead of time. You'll have a hard time exploring much of Alaska by land if you fly into Juneau ... The only way out of Juneau is by air or sea (no roads or rail). If you want to see standard SE Alaska (Juneau, Petersburg, Ketchikan, Sitka, etc.), the cruise will make it easy for you. If you don't think the cruise is for you and want a more tailored vacation, I'd suggest taking the state ferry system (the Alaska Marine Highway), and you'll be able to spend time in smaller Alaskan villages. This will give you quite a different experience than what the cruise ship can offer, but will take a lot more planning on your part.

John asks…

Twittering for fish.?

Now, I don't Twitter because frankly..no one follows me and can care less. I mean, who cares if my cat beat up the next door neighbors chiwawa.
But I was thinking of a Fishing Twitter community where your distant angling buddies get real time info on your catch of a lifetime, capsizing your kayak, observing poachers being busted, a rare fish in your waters, etc. I think maybe it would be cool this season if the Yahoo fishing regulars pick who you want to follow and twitter away. Just a thought, what do you think?
Now, if I can only remember my user name.

Brad Selers answers:

As much as I hate to agree with it, that does sound like a good idea.

Should I tweet when I bring out the Bassroom in my boat?

Betty asks…

Did I choose the right size kayak?

Recently for my birthday, I bought myself a brand new Heritage redfish 12 kayak from Orvis (thus getting a lifetime warranty with the possibility of returning it to them and getting my money back.) Long story short, I tested it out on the James River in VA and LOVED it. It has amazing stability and was a lot of fun. The only thing that bothers me is the lack of leg room, and the fact that if I'm going upcurrent, the boat will randomly start turning left or right on its own.....THis is what worries me, see I'm wondering if maybe I got the wrong size of kayak, as I myself am 6 "4' inches tall and weigh only around 160, and people are telling me I should have gone with a 14 for increased leg room, but i dont know, as this is my first kayak. I could always take it back and get my money back from Orvis, but does anyone think that my redfish 12 will be alright with my size???? P.S. will be using it on large lakes or rivers primarily, and possibly some ocean or bay usage... THANKS IN ADVANCE
I should have mentioned----------- I purchased the Redfish 12 ANGLER as I want it to be used primarily for fishing. Forgot to include that detail, sorry guys.

Brad Selers answers:

Two feet-itis, didn't know it existed in kayaks.

If you can take it back, do it. You will enjoy the larger boat.

Thomas asks…

English guienus people?????????10 points?

Hi, i have been applying for CBBC SERIOUS EXPLORE RES. They are taking 8 young people for a once in a trip of a lifetime in america, going cannoes, kayaking and boats etc...
They asked me, why should i be picked, and this is what i have wrote, i have to do this in less than 250 words+ they asked me other questions as well

I would love a chance to be able to learn more about nature and the worlds, and experience it more so that i can appreciate it more.
Around my area, i live in the countryside, and when i see wild animals and learn more about the world, it really inspires me to learn more, and to share it with people.
I have a great passion for learning about the world, and the wonders of nature, i want to see things that people never believe, and go places i can only dream. To make a journey of discovery would mean the world to me.

What do you think? Any changes and idea's, are perfect :)

Brad Selers answers:

I corrected a few things and eliminated some repetition.

I should love a chance to learn more about nature and the world, and have more experience that I may appreciate it more. I live in the countryside, and when I see wild animals and learn about the world, it inspires me to continue studying it, and to share my knowledge with others. I have a great passion for learning about the wonders of nature--I want to see things that people never believe, and go places about which I can only dream. To make a journey of discovery would mean the world to me.

It needs a great deal of work. I wish that I could help you more.

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