JSB wrote:
I just bought a used Valley Avocet as a first kayak.

The sales guy said I would never out grow it.

My problem now is, will I ever grow to it.

Handles nice, size fits me, maneuverable but TIPPY. The tippy is what has my
attention.. I paddle alone, often with few or any other boats of any kind on
the lake.

An Avocet "tippy"? I've never heard anyone I know who's paddled one say
that before (my wife has one hung up in the garage and I know a couple
of other (very happy) owners). Try an old Nordkapp if you want to know
what "tippy" /really/ feels like! ;-/

Seriously, the Avocet is *not* inherently tippy, you just need to get
used to it.

As for growing out of it, the main limitation is on physical packing
space for major expeditions, but by "major" I'm talking about a week or
more. Having two oval hatches makes it easy to maximise the space
available and you can get a good amount in.

I swim well, however.

You shouldn't need to, but I wouldn't suggest paddling alone if you're
new to the game and not confident in your boat, and aren't happy with
your roll either. Seems like some skills coaching might be a Cunning Plan.

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/