[jorluivil]

I think its hard to answer those questions. There are many things to contend with when you're out kayaking: wind, surf, sun, cold night, cold days, no restroom, type of seat, type of kayak, etc. The best suggestion I could make is to not spend more than you're willing to loose in a few trips. Take your time, start out in the bays and slowly venture your way out into open water but most importantly don't go alone.