By Eugene Buchanan

With a paddle as the only thing propelling you, sea kayaking takes some solid effort. But what a great workout--plus fresh air and some of the greatest scenery the world can offer.

Can You Handle It?
If you can manage sitting on a couch, legs outstretched, while lifting a baby, you can probably manage a sea-kayaking trip. Apart from a desire to get out in the wild, it requires moderate arm and shoulder strength, but not much more. Its greatest appeal may be that you can go at your own pace. If you get tired, simply slow down and take in the sights.

Essential Skills
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need many technical skills to sea kayak, other than the ability to sit down and move your arms. Today's craft are more stable than ever, all but eliminating the dread of capsizing. It helps to be comfortable in the water, but it's not necessary. Simply hop on board and start paddling. Most boats--and all tandems--come with the option of a rudder, making turning as simple as depressing a foot pedal. The hardest part is knowing when to stop; time has a way of slipping by as your hull glides across the water.

Gear Up
Starting with the basics, the equipment list for sea kayaking is simple: a boat, either single or tandem; sprayskirt to keep you dry; paddle, which is longer and lighter than the one used for whitewater; and a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket. Like any sport, it's easy to fill your shopping cart with extras. They include dry bags to keep accessories handy and safe; shoes and shorts you don't mind getting wet; a spare, break-down paddle; a paddle float that wraps around the paddle blade for self-rescue; a bilge pump for expelling water from the cockpit; and an assortment of sunhats, sunscreen, and water bottles. If you're heading out for an extended trip, especially in cold weather climes, the list grows to include everything from deck-mounted compasses to proper apparel.

Speak the Language
Cockpit: The circular hole in the hull where the paddler is planted.
Drip guard: The circular piece of rubber attached to the paddle shaft that stops water drops from trickling onto your arms.
Rudder: Mounted to the kayak's stern and controlled by your feet, the rudder helps steering without diverting forward paddle momentum.
Storage hatch: A water-tight compartment separated by a bulkhead (either fore, aft, or both) for hauling gear.
Sprayskirt: The coated-nylon cover you wear and secure around the cockpit to keep water out.
Sweep stroke: A wide paddle stroke on the surface of the water used to help initiate a turn.

Eugene Buchanan, publisher and editor-in-chief of Paddler magazine, is a former kayaking instructor and guide who has paddled on six continents. His articles on the subject have appeared in the New York Times, Men's Journal, Sports Afield, Outside, National Geographic, and other national publications.