Thanks Jim
I have already looked into a guided trip. The Seal is out of sight coming in at $4500. The bloodvein is around $3000 and that includes shuttles.

I suppose I'll just take some WW classes (I currently know zip, as in nada, nothing) and learn on the fly. A good reliable boat with a spray cover and a healthy dash of respect for the power of the water should allow me to ease in. I figure in August the flow won't be to bad and will allow easy access to portages for scouting or chickening out. A spot AND a SAT phone along with a few willing accomplices will round things out.