: Bobby,

: Nice boat and Web site. I’m curious, what about your North Bays don’t you
: like?

: I’m beginning to think I need a shorter version of the North Bay – something
: around 17’ long. That assumes I’m able to keep a boat with a 20” beam
: upright!

: - Greg

Greg

I’m 5’4” and weigh 130 lbs. The North Bay has a nominal height from keel to coaming rear of 8 inches. At 8 inches it is impossible for me to lay my back on to the rear deck. Even with the modifications I made, I couldn’t get it low enough to be comfortable. Also, there isn’t as much foot room as I like. The 20 inch beam did not provide the initial stability I wanted, and the boat has a tendency to weathercock. The 18 1/2 foot length is ideal for the majority of sea conditions I paddle in. This length is the minimum length I feel that is necessary for a kayak to track well, and not to act like a roller coaster.

I had an Artic Hawk (fiberglass version) and liked it very much, but it also didn’t have a low enough rear deck for me.

I designed the Sea Spirit to allow a the paddler to sit comfortably when upright, and lay directly on to the back deck with ease, while rolling and bracing. The 21 inch beam provides great initial stability. Secondary stability is also very good, due in part to the very low waterline. I find that I can balance brace the Sea Spirit without the need of a paddle for support. The boat also doesn’t exhibit any weather cocking, and tracks on course extremely well. It does, however need to be leaned in order to turn in a short radius. The Sea Spirit also can accommodate a large paddler.

Bobby