donquijote1954 wrote:
Well, it's not a pure canoe, but a kind of hybrid...the Adventure 14 by
Mad River, which I've being paddling like a kayak with 245cm paddles,
and it goes just great. I can even see the extra benefit of levelling
the boat in high winds with a simple stroke on the water.

Now, having bought the canoe paddles and the book with the proper
technique, should I bother to learn? My main use is in the bay with
flat or moderate chop where wind may be an issue.

You'll go faster with a double-paddle, in a boat where it is possible
to use. You don't waste engergy on the recovery. Single paddles are
simpler and don't drip water all over the deck or on your legs. It all
depends on what you are doing. A well-rounded boatman can handle both
types of paddles well.