OT - Local Kayaking

[cm11599ps]

I've been doing a lot of camping at Wildwood, Smith Point and Montauk the last 2 years. I saw many people kayaking so I decided to take the plunge and purchased 2 used kayaks at a garage sale today. I have zero experience besides doing a water test in my parents pool this afternoon.

Should I take some kind of water safety course? I don't plan on putting a motor on it. I'd like to use it in the sound, bay, ponds in Montauk and possibly the ocean if it's smooth enough.

Thanks!

 

[quagmire]

It's up to you. Have fun.

http://nysparks.com/recreation/boating/education.aspx

Here's a list of places to take a paid course and exam
http://nysparks.com/recreation/boating/safety-courses.aspx

Free
http://www.boaterexam.com/paddling/

Free
http://www.boatus.org/onlinecourse/NewYork.asp