Description
This is the new edition of a thorough reference first published in 1981--when the sport was little known--and revised/reprinted several times since then. Though certainly of interest and useful to the beginner, this reference is especially useful to the experienced paddler who needs specifics rather than generalities in connection with equipment, technique, navigation, emergency procedures, and planning an expedition, among other topics. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Dowd has been involved with kayaks and writing about them for more than 40 years. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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This classic guide focuses on the fundamentals of seamanship that are essential knowledge to all ocean paddlers.Sea kayaking has come a long way since this informative manual was published more than twenty years ago. From an offbeat pastime enjoyed by an adventurous few, the sport has become an industry unto itself. Veteran paddler John Dowd's readable, well-illustrated guide still stands as "the bible" for both new and experienced kayakers.Sea Kayaking covers the basics of equipment and technique, including types of paddles and strokes. But the key focus in this revised and updated edition is on sound seamanship and good risk management: how to read the weather and the water, how to navigate, how to travel with a group. Drawing on his long experience paddling in all climates, Dowd presents practical, concrete advice on dealing with potential hazards (from surf to sea ice to sharks) and carrying out rescues. The book contains new photographs and numerous helpful charts, diagrams and illustrations. It also covers expedition planning, instructional methods and sea kayaking for people with disabilities.As more and more paddlers take to the water, this classic guide continues to be required reading for those seeking adventure on the open ocean.
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