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~;;;====;:LA W:..:.EE:.:..K=EN =--=.:.~D OF CLOSE COASTAL EXPLORATION DESTINATION: TRIP TYPE: ~ FLORIDA'S TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS -. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and very strong currents. Before you go out, consult a tide table so you can run with them. You'll need a permit to paddle here and the Everglades Notional Pork Service 1305-242-7700) regulates the permit allocations. You can get a pennit from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City 1941-695-3311) or the visi- tor center In Flamingo 1941-695-31011, in person, no more than 24 hours before entering the water (S10 for one to six people for up to two weeks in the park). If you don't want to go solo: Everglades Rental and Eco-Adventures, 941-695-3299 or 941-695-4666, www.ever- gladesodventures.com/home.htm, November through mid-April, three days two nights, 5600 Including first night at a B&B, camping gear, guide and food. Atlantic Coast Kayak Company, 954-781-0073 or 888-937-5292, www.atlantic- coastkayak.comlindex.html, allantic.coast@juno.com, $250 (based on 6-12 people) Instruction, gear and food. Bring your own sleeping bag. Recommended Boat: Perception Prism Boat Notes: This high-performance, sit-an-top boat is perfeel for Florida's heat and humidity. The Prism's sleek lines make it perfect for quick turns around the islands and the Everglades and its rock-solid stabili- ty makes it a good platform for diving, fishing or just playing around. There are two storage areas at the bow and stern for expedition supplies. Perception, 800-59-KAYAK, www.perceptionkayaks.com. $599 Length: 14 feet 2 inches Width: 27 inches for the light paddler _ Recommended Boat: Perception Corona Boat Notes: First came the Eclipse, then the Shadow, and now Perception has introduced the Corona. At 14 feet, 6 inches long-3 feet shorter than its predecessors-the boat offers superb maneuverability without sacrificing too much speed. " also offers plenty of storage space with 7,550 cubic inches available between the bow and stern. At 52 pounds, the Corona can hold up to 350 pounds, making it ready and able for outings lasting several days. Made with Super Linear polyethyl- ene, a super-durable material that is a standard for plastiC boats, the Corona can even bump into a few rocks or scrape up onto a few beach- es without becoming defaced. The boat is also available in fiberglass or carbon/Kevlar composites. Perception, 800-59-KAYAK, www.perceptionkayaks.com. $1,275 (with rudder) Length: 14 feet 6 inches Width: 22.5 inches As with any sport, your paddling experience will be only as good as the fit of your equipment. If you're using a kayak that is too big for your body, then you'll have difficulties effectively steering and controlling the boat. That is why these boats are excellent choices for paddlers under 150 pounds. Women in particular have had great experiences paddling these boats. Recommended Boat: Wilderness Systems Piccolo Boat Notes: At 13 feet 6 inches long, the real size difference is found in the _ baal's width, which is 20.5 inches-several inches ~ narrower than an average touring boars width. Proportionate to its size, the boat weighs a mere 42 pounds and features a small hatch behind the seat. What you gain in maneuverability, you lose in storage space, but there is a storage bag in the bow and front and back bungee cords for securing extra equip- ment. The boat is made with Super Linear polyethylene plastic, which means it is not only superdurable, it's also affordable-very affordable. Wilderness Systems, 336-434-7730, www.youcanpaddle.com or www.wildsys.com. $799 Iwith rudder) Length: 13 feet 6 inches Width: 20.5 inches 71