Planning a Niagara Falls Kayak Run: A Beginner's Guide

Question
Hello Jim,

As an expert in kayaks I hope you can point me in the right direction.  Unfortunately I`m not that proficient with kayaks but I`m a fast learner.  I have always been involved in high-adrenaline sports, such as sky diving, rock climbing, and motorbiking, and want to add one more to the list.  See Jim, I have a dream:  I want to be the first man to Kayak over Niagra Falls.  I say first man, because as I understand, a woman did this in `84.  Anyways I`m hoping you might be able to recommend manufacturers of sturdy kayaks.  I understand that I will probably need to modify the kayak a bit for my own needs.  I also understand that I might get a bit wet.  Also, are you aware of any kayaking organizations that cater to my interests of kayaking large falls?

I eagerly await your response at your convenience.  Thank you for your time,

Arthur

Answer
That's a new one for me, Arthur.  My expertise is more in the sea kayaks than in the whitewater boats. I think I would start with Perception Kayaks, and see what they have to offer.  For paddles, I recommend the Werner paddles.  And for what you want to do, I highly recommend a good strong helmet!

Also, I suggest you get ahold of a Sea Kayaker magazine. You will find some good references in there, in addition to those you might find in Canoe or some of the other mags.

Good luck!