On 18 Dec 2004 08:12:41 -0800, wrote:

I'm a recent convert to the occassionally wet world of kayaking. I have
practised wet exits and self rescues, wear a PDF and always carry a
paddle float and bail pump. While most of my rough water experience has
been coastal and always accompanied by at least one other more
experienced paddler I would like to equip myself with additional
protection for the days I might venture solo. In the Spring I intend to
continue to work on my non existent (as yet) roll and other braces.
Here is my thought: a reliable VHF radio, an inexpensive GPS and
finally a usable dry suit. I like to paddle mostly the North shore of
MA where the water temperature even in summer never gets better than
60. (I think) I own a farmer john 3mm wet suit but not sure if this is
enough. Currently I'm looking at a ICOM IC-MIV VHF radio and a Palm dry
suit. Anyone out there want to weigh in on my choices or suggest other
alternatives. Are the built in neoprene socks advisable? I do insist on
a pee zipper being of the prostate challenged generation.

Some active sea kayaking clubs in the Eastern Ma area may be of
interest to you. I think all of them do instructional programs, and
meeting up with more experienced paddlers from the area will help with
your other questions.

North Shore Paddlers Network
http://www.nspn.org

Boston Sea Kayak Club (BSKC)
http://www.bskc.org/

Also the Appalachian Mountain Club
http://www.outdoors.org/
specifically the Boston Chapter Sea Kayak group:
http://home.comcast.net/~ghaff/kayaking/

There are also many commercial instructional opportunities.

Happy trails,
Gary (net.yogi.bear)
------------------------------------------------
at the 51st percentile of ursine intelligence

Gary D. Schwartz, Needham, MA, USA
Please reply to: garyDOTschwartzATpoboxDOTcom