The boat performs well in most conditions but it can be difficult to maintain a course on open water in strong winds. The Colorado is an exteremly stable boat.
If paddling using kayak paddles you will get wet. Kayak paddling for prolonged periods can cause the boat to fill with a surprising amount of water which, if not bailed out, can affect performance.
If you're new to paddling check out this YouTube video, but consider taking a canoeing or kayaking course.
For a dry boat paddling with a canoe paddle is highly recommended. The J stroke works well with the Colorado and is relatively easy to master.
When attempting the J stroke for the first time the main thing to remember is to persevere.
I suggest having two people in the boat when learning, the stroke is easiest to perfect when momentum is built up, a task made easier with two paddling. The bow paddler should not attempt to steer, the stern paddler should perform approximately one J stroke for every two power strokes by the bow paddler.
It can be difficult to build momentum when paddling solo, but again persevere! Several rapid strokes may be required to build speed before the J stroke can be properly implemented. When building up speed you may find the boat turns away from the required course, don't worry, build up speed and when ready correct the course with the stroke.
Here is a great YouTube video demonstrating the stroke.
