The Global Paddling Community

A modern-day adventure through the heart of Florida

Florida’s Big Bend Coast is one of America’s longest and wildest continuous wetlands. Seminole Indians once sought refuge from American soldiers along its shores. Today, visitors find a different kind of refuge, a refuge from a hectic world. In the first comprehensive armchair guide to this region, naturalist and explorer Doug Alderson introduces readers to Florida’s frontier past and evolving future. Interweaving history, folkways, and observations from life in the great outdoors, Alderson tells tales of his travels by sea kayak along the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail, which runs from the Aucilla River to the town of Suwannee. He retraces the footsteps of famed naturalist John Muir in Cedar Key, shares little-known stories of backcountry feuds that rivaled the Hatfields and McCoys, uncovers amusing theories as to why mullet jump, and invites salty local characters to share the spotlight. Sometimes poignant, often humorous, and always engaging, Waters Less Traveled is the perfect travel companion for anyone who wants a bit of adventure without leaving home.  

500+ easy-to-digest tips for making sea kayaking safer and more enjoyable Drawn in part from the popular "Tips" column appearing in Sea Kayaker magazine, SEA KAYAKER'S SAVVY PADDLER arms novice and expert paddlers alike with helpful, tested-and-refined-in-the-field advice. The tips and techniques are inventive, yet head-smackingly simple: for example, convert an old CD into a signal mirror; use a drinking straw to suck the air from bread bags to add days of freshness. These great ideas are complemented by practical discussions of such things as how to pack a kayak for a multi-day trip, lists of essential touring items, advice on choosing the best paddling boat or partner, recipes for quick meals on the water or in camp, and much more. Tips are organized into sections for ease of access: * Major purchases * Outfitting * Navigation and safety * Food, clothing and shelter * Health and fitness

Sea Kayak Strokes is a concise manual for learning and improving paddling skills. Alderson s tips will help you paddle faster and with less effort, turn your kayak with greater ease, and keep your head above water using quick and effective bracing techniques. Alderson describes how the forces of wind and water affect directional control of a kayak, providing information on how to choose the most effective stroke at the right time. You won t have to struggle in the wind if you use the strokes that let the wind do some of the work for you. Learn to save your energy and keep your kayak moving when waves and current are trying to push you around. Sea Kayak Strokes is a teaching and learning guide with sensible text and clear illustrations an invaluable resource for paddlers and instructors.