What's your Victorian water like in Feb/March? Do you need to paddle with a dry suit? or is a neoprene wetsuit like the Aussie made shark skins OK to keep you warm during a capsize and roll? I can't imagine a dry suit being necessary but some people say the water is still freezing then.
All depends on the environment. If you are touring and dressed appropriately (fleece, thermals and paddling jacket etc) you will be fine but if you are training and spending a lot of time in the water in March we would recommend a dry suit. you learn more when you're warm.
@@eastcoastkayaking I ask specifically toward crossing bass strait. A friend and I are planning towards it but live in Brisbane where the water is beautiful 11 months out of 12 haha.
You should not require a dry suit for Bass Straight Crossing, even if you are from QLD :) General autumn weather is cold and crisp in the morning and evening however generally throughout the day it is quite pleasant! You should be spending no time in the water as you should no longer be a beginner Paddler. Interpreting the weather is key, ensuring you're not heading out in challenging or dangerous conditions. A paddling jacket "CAG" is a key piece of kit however.