Monday, June 8, 2009

Oh, There's Some Fun Up Ahead!


Long time readers will recall that a little over a year ago I wrote about a new kayak company named Maelström Kayaks based here in Québec that had designed two very interesting kayaks and were on the verge of putting them into production. Now with a new association with Boréal Design Kayaks, they've ramped up both production and, most importantly, distribution.

On my way home from a little paddling trip into Ontario, I stopped to pick up my very own Vaag 174, built to my colour choices of yellow and black. Today I quickly snapped a couple of photos and then spent a good part of the day at the lake having some fun. I wish I could say the waves were huge and the conditions extreme, but they were calm and gentle. This boat wants to play, so I had to make do with slalom runs through the mooring buoys and around the bridge tressels. More exciting paddles will come in the days ahead, I'm sure. This kayak will be my first choice as I head out on my summer voyages.


This boat has a skeg rather than a rudder which I'm more used to using, but as I also paddle SOF kayaks, it didn't take me long to have the boat tracking where I wanted and spinning around the buoys when I want that. I suspect this boat will push my skill level farther ahead and I'm looking forward to that! Another skill I'm looking forward to acquiring is remembering to bring the camera when I go out paddling...

8 comments:

Stan Mac Kenzie said...

She's a beaut Michael. Congrats.


STan

Stan Mac Kenzie said...

Oh yes , what is that metal object on the bow? PAddle holder?


Stan

Michael said...

Hi Stan! Yes it is, but it's actually clear tubing with some rope inside. Quite clever and easy to do at home!

Silbs said...

You dog. Nice ride. It looks like there's a lot of rocker there. I bet she turns on a dime. Stay safe and enjoy.

Anonymous said...

Hello Mike, your new "toy" is definitely pretty!
I too wondered what the tubing/handle thing was. Enjoy!
Cheers,

Mairi

Richard Hayes said...

Nice, shiny-looking new 'yak, Michael - we'll fix that when you get to bang it around on a few of our Newfoundland cobble beaches! Looking forward to seeing the Vaaq and, of course, yourself, when you get yourself over the Gulf...

Kristen said...

A real beauty, Michael! Can't wait to see it down here with you. Kx

Alana said...

Nice boat, the colours look very sharp.
It's nice to see another Canadian company out there, especially one with Brit style designs. Any news on when Maelström is going to make it's way to BC?
Enjoy your boat!