A trailer full of kayaks reflected in the H2Omobile's glossy black stripe.

What You Can Do with H2O

• H2Outfitters has programs for kayakers of all skill levels and even offers workshops for kids.

• H2Outfitters holds classes and workshops in Maine, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, but they offer kayaking expeditions worldwide.

• For a truly unique experience, try an expedition to Japan, Greenland, the coast of Ireland, or Canada.

• Closer to home, H2Outfitters offers trips from May to November throughout the eastern United States.

An Eskimo Roll is Not Sushi

• An Eskimo roll is a technique to right a kayak that has flipped over without the paddler having to get out of the kayak.

• One of the biggest safety concerns in a sea kayak is flipping over, especially when far from shore. Kayakers should learn how to get out of their kayak when it is flipped over, how to bail water out of the cockpit, and how to re-enter the kayak while on the water before heading out on any serious sea-kayak expedition.

Stuff to Get You Started

• While there are catalogues full of gear for sea kayaking, when you're just starting out, you only need a couple of basic items other than the kayak, life vest, spray skirt and paddle.

• A bathing suit is, of course, a good choice for sea kayaking, but warmer gear may be required. Poly-fibers like Capilene or Polartec are a good choice because they dry quickly and will keep you warm, even when wet.

• Avoid wearing cotton (t-shirt, for example), because cotton can chafe against your skin when worn under a life vest, takes a long time to dry out, and won't keep you warm when wet.

• Other essential items for your first sea kayaking lesson or workshop include a hat or sun visor, sunscreen, insect repellent and aqua shoes or river sandals.

Find out More

• H2Outfitters publishes an excellent newsletter outlining all of their available programs and expeditions. It's called NewSplash, and you can get it by contacting H2Outfitters (see contact info below).

Not Just a Good Sense of Humor and a Bright Orange GMC

• Cathy Piffath and Jeff Cooper, the Head Honcho and Director of Fun of H2Outfitters, both hold the highest level of Instructor Certification offered in the US by the American Canoe Association.

Contact Information

H2Outfitters
1-800-20-KAYAK
h2o@h2outfitters.com, www.h2outfitters.com

Chesapeake Light Craft
410-267-0137
www.clcboats.com