Paddling My Own Canoe

Author: Audrey Sutherland

Watercolor illustrations by Yoshiko Yamamoto

Published by Patagonia Inc.

In 1958, while flying between islands, Audrey Sutherland caught sight of the remote, roadless northeast side of Moloka‘i, with its dramatic sea cliffs and waterfalls. Ever the adventurer, she knew she had to explore this inaccessible area. After careful study, she concluded that the best way to navigate the treacherous sea walls was to swim while towing a raft, then transition to paddling a kayak.

This is the story of her dream realized—of planning and execution, launching and advancing, retreating and reassessing, facing challenges, and ultimately achieving success. It's the story of the journey that convinced her that personal growth comes when one goes simple, goes solo, and goes now. 

This commemorative edition, along with the companion book Paddling North, celebrates Sutherland's legacy and her enduring inspiration for women and adventurers everywhere.