I have one...best deal around that I found was in Natick Out Door Store in Natick, MA.
They had the EXACT SAME kayak as EMS for $150 less, and it came with a free paddle and free life preserver. Obviously the paddle and vest are not top of the line, but are good enough to make sure that kayaking will be your thing.
I only used mine 2-3 times before I blew out my back. My Dad has it now.
1. Rememb er that however far out you paddle, you need to paddle back. Better to stsrt out going upstream while you have energy first. Yes, I know it's common sense, but I thought I'd throw it out there.
2. It is a MASSIVE workout with your arms
3. Make sure you have good footing when you get out. Remember- you are sitting in a tube, on the ground, that moves. Don't be stupid like I was and put you feet on an alge covered boat launch. You just look stupid, and your "family jewels" will hurt later from the inevitable split that you will do.
3 1/2. Please stop laughing at me.
4. I invested in a good dry bag (LL Bean Outlet in Concord always seems to have them). They are good for keys/ wallet/ etc. If you don't like that idea, and if you life vest has pockets, try a double or triple zip lock bag, or even a small tupperwear container.
5. I seached online, and if I remeber correctly, there is a NH Kayak club or something to that effect. They give all sorts of neato spots to go.
6. I'm in Concord, NH, right off of the Contoocook river. If you go somewhere around here, and end up needing a place to rest/ fix something. etc. Let me know, I will lend a driveway/ yard/ glass of water/ cheap tent site (for y'all only, please, I'm not a B&B).
M