The search for the kayak for the trip took several months with a lot of options to choose from. There are so many amazing kayaks that it was very hard to choose. The one main factor that we could not get away from is that I am 6 foot 3 and weigh in at 115kgs (I suspect I will be somewhat lighter after the trip). Many of the boats we looked at had a maximum weight carrying capacity of 130 – 150kgs. The Epic has a carrying capacity of 180kg which for me is perfect as we are taking a huge amount of gear and equipment with us – each boat will have 42litres of water, plus lots of gadgets and equipment.
Marty of course at his slim and fit 80kgs had a few more options when it came to boat choice. In addition to their weight carrying capacity the surf ski style construction makes them very quick through the water which we considered an important factor on such a long trip. The deciding moment for me was the test paddle we had with Craig McSween from Adventure Outlet (www.adventureoutlet.com). I am an ex-whitewater paddler with paddling skills very much attuned to slalom and river running kayaks, jumping into a five and a half metre long speed machine was exhilarating, it was love at first paddle.
The style of the boats does make them a little less stable than other types of sea kayaks but the more time we spend in them the more comfortable we have become. They are a lot more stable when loaded with equipment – so, I at 30kgs heavier than Marty have had a distinct advantage from day one, one of the few times in life when having a few more kgs than you should is a good thing. The photo shows the day we picked up two sparking new kayaks in October 2015 – a very exciting day!
redwinekayaks 