Paddling in kayaks and canoes offers enormous scope for young children, teenagers and adults alike in terms of recreational fun, touring and camping holidays. This book provides practical advice on where to paddle, clothing and equipment, how to get into a kayak and a canoe, how to capsize safely, how to hold the paddle, and the skills needed to move and roll the boat. There is essential advice on clothing and equipment, reading weather conditions and understanding hydrodynamics. It also explores the fast and furious sports of white water paddling, play boating and surfing, and the competition scene. Illustrated with step-by-step sequences and over 600 inspirational photographs, this practical guide is a one-stop reference source for aspiring paddlers everywhere. How-to instruction in every technique, this is the ultimate guide to the exciting water sports of kayaking and canoeing, both for novices and more experienced intermediate-level paddlers, from expert instruction on mastering the basic skills as a beginner on flat water, and progressing to the challenges of white water, open water and the sea.