Expedition Kayaking, 5th (How to Paddle Series) [Paperback]

Derek Hutchinson (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 2007 | Series: How to Paddle Series

This guide, written by international expert Derek Hutchinson, is a thorough guide to coastal and open-ocean expeditions by sea kayak.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"There are few books that offer as much information as this one. . . . You can kayak without knowing this information, but going beyond the recreational stage is made much easier after reading Expedition Kayaking."

--Canoe & Kayak

"Hutchinson stresses that neither age nor sex is a barrier in this sport, but planning and careful preparation are all-important. His considerable experience, the clear illustrations, and interesting passages from early kayak explorers' texts, along with a dry wit and a very personal style of writing, make this a pleasure to read."

--Library Journal

From the Back Cover

Expedition Kayaking - the premier guide to sea kayaking adventure - offers vital instruction for solo kayakers and expedition leaders alike on paddling, seamanship, camping, rescue techniques, and more.

Derek C. Hutchinson, the leading international authority on sea kayaking, draws on his decades of experience to provide sage advice and advanced techniques for paddling the ocean, whether on a coastal jaunt or on an extended sea voyage. Inside you'll find full-color photos and illustrations, excerpts from the writings of early explorers, practical tips, and the author's own wit and wisdom to enhance any oceangoing experience.

Also inside:

• The origins of the sea kayak
• Essential equipment
• Handling wind, surf, and currents
• Self-rescues and group rescues
• Navigation techniques
• First aid and wilderness medicine
• Repairs and towing
• Hazardous wildlife
• Tandem kayaks and sailing rigs
• Handling dangerous situations
• Setting up camp
• Survival strategies
• Trip planning and more

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: FalconGuides; 5th edition (May 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0762742828
• ISBN-13: 978-0762742820
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,177,117 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Part Kayaking part Backcountry camping, October 29, 2007

By 

Haris Subacius (Chicago Area, IL) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Expedition Kayaking, 5th (How to Paddle Series) (Paperback)

This is really a 3/4 kayak 1/4 comping book. Covers the basics of kayaking, navigation and then topics like guns, predators, scavenging, etc. As a long-time camper I found the second half redundant. The part on kayaking was probably redundant with other kayaking books but it was useful to me. I like in depth coverage though and, at home, I never by TV/VCR combo. This book is the TV/VCR. An advanced user will probably want TV and a VCR.

If you are new to both backcountry living and kayaking and want a glimpse of what to expect on a kayak expedition that goes well beyond the surface, then this is a good book for you. If you are seriously considering an expedition, you'll probably want something more in depth.

Lots of useful information in this book without good organization or structure. Chapters are good on their own but are just kinda thrown together like in a second hand clothes store. There were too many "I hear" and "people tell me" arguments in the book. To me, if you write a book on a topic then either research things you want to write about or just admit ignorance and encourage the user to search elsewhere.

Overall, despite serious shortcomings this is a useful book--just not a complete reference by any means. Will need other books on all topics introduced here: trip planning, boat selection, kayaking technique, clothing, navigation, campsite selection and camping.