"vee" wrote in news:1101997353.066346.14610
@z14g2000cwz.googlegroups.com:

Thanks to both of you. From your feedback I surmise that the Skerray
would be the best choice but the Walden Passage is a good boat until I
figure out what I want be when I grow up. I live in W.NY and my initial
usage will probably be a mix of finger lakes, small rivers and the
canal.

I'm a bit south of you but still in your neck of the woods (Ithaca)
These trips will probably be evenings after work, 1/2 day
Saturdays and a rare overnight. I have not tried the Passage but will
attempt to locate one. I have tried the smaller Waldens at Bay Creek
but found the deck height too low to get comfortable.

The deck height is something that can take getting used to if you've
primarily paddled recreational boats up to now. If the foredeck feels too
low check your posture. Many seats on rec boats tend to encourage a bit of
a slouch. Leaning back against the seat with your knees bent up is not a
efficient paddling posture. If you sit upright with just your butt against
the seat back and lean slightly forward it will lower your legs and you
might find the deck height less restrictive.

I don't have any
rolling skills so the mention that it rolls well was encouraging
because i was concerned about the width 24".

I was surprised that it rolled so well. There are easier boats to learn how
to roll in but the Passage would not bee too restrictive to learning.


I am in my 50's , 5'10
,190# and size 10 shoes. Fit has been the issue with some other boats.
I tried a CD Squamish and it felt tight that's why I asked about the
Sirocco. Based on price the Passage is a winner and if $ were not an
issue to the Skerray would be the way to go?

Someone else mentioned an VCP Avocet. If the place you are looking at that
has the Skerray also has an Avocet I'd recommend trying one. Even though
I've paddled a Skerray for seven years or so if I were to choose between a
Skerray RM or an Avocet I'd get the Avocet.

My concern is probably
the same as other first time buyers afraid to buy too low or too much
for our beginning usage. Thanks for sharing your experience.

I more depends on how you want to use the boat. If you're primarily just
going to be paddling casually the Passage will be fine. If you're hoping to
improve your skills so that you can paddle more challenging conditions you
might consider a more challenging boat.