David, my kayaking experience has been limited to 6 trips (including test drive) in the last 6 weeks. My second trip was out with the guys to Bluefish Point, and there has been excellent tolerance for the newby (me), despite questionable (but improving) driving skills. I think enthusiasm is the most important prerequisite, one of these days I'll get around to getting an SX40 as well. Look forward to seeing you out there. BTW the Balmoral Burn was more like the Balmoral Blow.