I need help deciding which one. Having read many posts on this board and paddled a few I’ve narrowed it down to just ???? One thing missing from the posts on this site is how these yaks handle. I think builders are just so thrilled once they’ve finished that the bottom line is–my God, it floats!! While realizing that no one boat is better than another, I am interested in the handling characteristics of any of these kayaks – based on tracking, turning, and stability in big water. (I’m 5’6, 1651bs):
1) Laughing Loon “North Star” (is there really a problem with the plans re: fairing)
2) Jay Babina “Outer Island”
3) One Ocean Kayaks “Cape Ann Storm”
4) Guillemot “Expedition”
My original choice was between the Guillemot and Night Heron, but after brief paddles in these beautiful boats, I felt they were poor trackers (how about installing a skeg). Having paddled for only a year, I am still learning basic stuff but first thing I did once deciding on the sport was buy a plastic Capella—based entirely on user reviews. I’m happy with the choice, it’s a great yak but is a terrible tracker, unless the skeg is deployed. I only mention this because the relationship of sea conditions and the handling characteristics of the kayak seems the principal factor in the choice. One characteristic of kayaks I don’t understand is their ability to either punch through waves or ride on them. Eg, the North Star is said to be high volume and rides over waves. What I would like to know is: is this actually an advantage in rough seas, or is a Greenlander style much more suited to swells/breaking waves? Is it preferable to punch through waves rather than over them, assuming you don’t want to surf? My paddling water is the Hudson and New England coast. Thanks for your input.