Tandem Sit-On-Top Kayaking

Read this book before buying a Tandem Yak. It's a fast read and goes straight to the pros and cons.

Tom Holtey, in this second watersports book, clearly and concisely prepares tandem sit-on-toppers for safe fun on the water, just as he prepared solo paddlers in his earlier book, "Sit-On-Top Kayaking." But is there difference enough to merit another book? Yes, there sure is - two people paddling in the same kayak can double the fun, but different skills are needed and very important team issues emerge. In fact, Holtey devotes Chapter 6 to "Working as a Team." It reinforces the interdependence factors and social aspects of tandem kayaking, whether with a partner or with a child. Yes, some tandems handle more than just Mom & Dad. Communications is a theme properly highlighted throughout. (I know a guy who decided he'd rather hike 11 hard miles barefoot than continue paddling with a non-communicative partner.) Artist Mike Altman's illustrations are sharp and far more instructive and revealing than photographs seen in other books. No need to read this book front-to-back, in fact, most readers will want to start at the back and enjoy the color photos, links, and 800 numbers to additional resources. I recommend an early look at the last chapters, "The Right Tandem for You" (because there are so models many now available) and "Kayak Safety" (because safety must always be served). The appendices offer a Glossary to de-mystify the terminology, and a Safe Kayaking Check List well-tested by a kayak club in Hawaii of which I'm a member. Don't expect a doorstop or coffee-table tome - this is a small, easily portable "take-along" book for novice or occasional tandem kayakers. Just get it, read it, find a partner, figure out who sits where, and do it!