Sea kayaking is the ultimate in getting away from it all. It’s like visiting another world, a world where seals, dolphins and seabirds are the dominant species. For some, sea kayaking is about solitude and peace. Others are attracted by the challenge offered by long-distance crossings, battling through rough water and negotiating overfalls and tidal races.

The experience of the sea in all its majestic tranquillity, or its raging anger, is an experience unmatched on land. Once you have mastered the basic practical skills of handling your boat, the world is your oyster. You can choose whether to experience the rugged coastlines of Cornwall or venture further a field to some breathtaking destinations such as Thailand, Alaska or New Zealand. Either way, there’s no doubt that once you’ve tried it, you’ll be hooked for life. Most sea kayaks come with hatches in the deck to access watertight storage areas, useful as sea kayakers often need to carry equipment and clothing for multi-day trips. Sea kayaks traditionally are made of rigid, composite materials, but there are now many plastic ones on the market

Whatever your motivation to get out in a sea kayak, you will need to be fully prepared. Part of the wonder of the sea is how quickly it can change from a calm, relaxing paradise to a raging monster, so adequate preparation and training is vital. Even highly proficient inland paddlers should not set out on a sea kayaking trip without a guide or sufficient knowledge of the area.
There are a great many specialist sea kayaking schools around the UK that provide courses in navigation, the effects of weather and how to counteract them, and how to interpret tides and plan a trip to fit around them. Add these to your arsenal of paddling skills and you’re set for an experience of a lifetime!

Expeditioning around the world - Ollie Sanders
A taste of salt - Sea kayaking of the coast of Scotland - Gordon Brown
Ummannaq Fjord -  Gordon Brown 
Reflections - Franco Ferrero
Fresh Fish and Icebergs - Leo Hoare 
Dry land rolling - Ben Lawry
Sea Kayaking Around Japan & South Georgia - Two ends of the Exterme - Jeff Allen
Trips and Tips for the intermediate Sea kayaker - Nigel Dennis
Low Angle vs High Angle Paddling - Danny Mnogno
Paddling with Whales - Duncan Murrell

 

 

Dagger
Glyn Edwards
Epic
Island Kayaks
Kaskazi
Necky
North Shore
P & H
Perception
Prijon
Rockpool
RTM
Tiderace
Tooka
Valley
Venture
Wilderness Systems

Plus loads of paddles, clothing, kit and accessories from dozens of brands. See main exhibitor list.