While changing today I happened to glance at my newest boat and thought, 'Wow, that boat has some serious camber!' Of course that was one of the attributes that prompted me to buy it. This Maelström 'Vaag' is a play boat. It is designed with lots of rocker to enable it to turn quickly in tight quarters and it does, thanks to the rocker.
Compare this boat to my QCC 600, lying in about the same position on the dock. There's some rocker, but it isn't nearly as pronounced. Predictably, the QCC isn't as quick in the corners. It's more of a fast touring boat, which is exactly why I bought it some years ago. I didn't want to be the last boat going around Manitoulin Island, hitting the beach long after supper had been devoured! Thanks to QCC, I got to make supper most nights!
Two boats, two very different situations where each one shines. I feel they complement my paddling interests very well.
3 comments:
You make a good point and you make it clearly. For those who are new to the game and wonder why there is not perfect boat, your post goes a long way in giving them clarity. Isn't there a boat out there (seriously) with a lever that actually changes the amount of rocker?
Isn't there a boat out there (seriously) with a lever that actually changes the amount of rocker?
Yes, there is
TRAK T-1600
http://www.rethinkkayak.com/
wow, what a difference between the two. the rocker would make it very 'interesting' in choppy water! does it surf?
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