Outlaw Paddling   Victorian Race Series

As there are so many types of ocean craft - from ocean skis, SLSA spec skis, sit-on-top plastics and sea kayaks, through to stand-up paddleboards, SLSA spec malibu boards, and downwind paddleboards - it is best to speak to an expert about which craft is best for you.

One thing you will learn quickly is that the fastest person on flat conditions is not always the fastest person downwind. It is definitely an acquired skill that requires constant practice. Even those who have grown up paddling in the ocean can get rusty without regular practice. Read on for some basic tips.

There are two aspects to this: getting out, and then getting back in once you're out! Here are some tips for a trouble-free experience.

This can be tricky when you are first learning or the wind is very strong. The most important thing if you fall off is to not lose your ski or paddle. Or try to at least keep your paddle with you so that when you relocate your ski you have it with you - in addition to making you go faster (than using your hands only) it helps with stability. The first thing to do if you fall off is to turn your ski upright and then put your hands (with your paddle in one hand) over the foot wells, holding the foot straps. Then lift your body up and swing your legs over the ski, one on each side, so you're straddling the ski.