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Brian Nystrom Brian Nystrom is offline
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First recorded activity by BoatBanter: Jul 2006
Posts: 235
Default 17 vs 19 , Lake Huron

Drew Cutter wrote:
I'm looking to do some paddle (sea kayak) on lake Huron. For 3-5 days
worth of camping. Should i buy a 17 foot (overnight kayak) or go for
expedition size (19') kayak ?


Expedition boats are good for one thing, expeditions. Their length and
high volume tends to make for an ill-handling boat when they're paddled
without a load of gear inside. They're also more prone to wind-related
control issues. IMO, you should avoid buying one unless you plan to do
mainly long trips.

A 17' boat has considerably higher capacity than the largest backpack,
so it can easily handle the gear and supplies necessary for a week or
more, especially since you'll have access to fresh water and won't need
to carry much (get a GOOD water filter). You'll also find it to be far
more useful for general paddling.