Is the boat plastic or fiberglass? Can you describe where the crack is? Fiberglass boats can develop what are called "gel cracks" in the surface of the boat. They are more of a cosmetic issue rather than a structural one.

Plastic boats are another case. In either situation, I'd take the boat to a paddle shop (not Dick's sporting goods or REI, but a REAL paddlesports shop) and have someone look at it. They'll be able to either fix it themselves, or guide you to someone who can.

The peddles inside are for controlling the rudder on the back of the boat. The rudder helps the boat to go straight in winds and currents. The paddle shop can explain how those work too.
References :
Find a local paddling shop:
http://www.paddling.net/dealers/

This site also has a phone number that you can call and ask them these same questions. Most people when dealing with tourists are extremely helpful. Good luck and have fun!
References :

You can follow the following links:
http://www.seakayak.ws/kayak/kayak.nsf/NavigationList/NT00005696
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kayak
http://www.myoan.net/paddlingart/faqkayak.html

Then decide according to your budget and type of your need for kayaking level.

To know about buying a kayak you can follow:
http://www.pr.com/press-release/59265

I think best season to buy kayak is off seasons.

If you ever want to visit India for River Rafting and Kayaking please contact us at:
http://www.intoindia.com/contactus.html

The large number of rivers in the Indian Himalaya make it possible to run anything from mellow class II to committing class IV and V

As an experienced adventure travel company, we follow all safety and security regulations on all our remote kayaking, rafting and trekking expeditions.
References :

in terms of clothing. if you can get thermals then they would be great. make sure they're polyester as cotton ones become useless when they get wet.

old runners are great incase you take a swim and hae to walk along the river.

you'll be wearing a helmet but if you want to bring a swim cap with you it can be handy to create an extra layer in case your head gets cold. remember the water is much colder than the air.

if you want any tips for paddling, i'm sure it'll be easy enough for you to figure out. key parts:
-for travelling straight use vertical stokes
-turning, hold your paddles more horixontal
-moving straight is one of the hardest challenges for beginners but using positive forward strokes to correct your direction are much better than negative backward strokes which slow you down.

i could write a book on the basics but you'll figure them out as you go. in fact i've a couple of books on the basics
References :
level 2 kayak instructor