Some days you get the anchor down and want to take a wander around the new neighborhood. But it’s been a long day, you’re tired and don’t feel like breaking out the dinghy, hoisting the outboard off the rail and onto the transom. What to do?
Kayak. I our case, inflatable kayak. We bought one to try it out to see how well it will fit into the kit on Endless Song.
These are nice as they go into their own suitcase sized bag, and are easy to stow. Yes, full size rigid kayaks will track better, glide better, and are better suited to long distance expeditions. But they are also 12 feet of hard plastic or fiberglass that you need to store somewhere out of the way and secure while you sail.
A lot of sailboats will put outboard racks on the stanchions, but I think it makes a sailboat look like a pig. Call me picky, but I don’t want to sail around with these giant wings hanging out. Sailing is somewhat about aesthetics.
So this weekend we blew it up for the first time to see how long it takes, and what it’s like to get in and out of.
First, it actually pumps up pretty fast. You just unfold, pump up one valve, then blow up the inner supports and the inflatable floor. Click in the adjustable seat, and you’re ready to go. It’s actually really light, and easy to plop in the water.
Then the acid test, getting into it. It’d been a few years, but I remember you’re supposed to put the paddle behind you, across the kayak and the dock.
So in the water, it actually feels pretty solid. Some kayaks are a little tippy, but this one is not like that. It also wasn’t cold thanks to that inflatable floor. It puts a nice insulating barrier between you and the bottom of the boat.
All in all…it seems a good addition to the kit. We’re getting a second one for Karin.
