Thinking about having a go. What's best for beginners (sea / flat water / rapids)? And, how much would it cost for a half decent piece of second hand kit?
Choose small, calm bodies of water. The best locations are lakes or ponds with minimal or no motorboat traffic.
Look for gently sloping sandy terrain that allows launch.
Go when it's calm and sunny.
If the wind is strong, start rowing upwind. Plan a trip, not a road trip.