HELP! Purchasing a boat
 

Hello. I am new to this group and would like any advice...

I live in SOuth Florida and want to purchase the right kayak for me.
I am a slender woman that can lift about 60 pounds.

I have read some books and know that I must try boats out, but I
wouldn't mind some advise from people like you.

Sit on Top or Sit in?

I will mostly be taking the boat to a river (rivers in S. FL are calm
water, no whitewater here!) or the intercoastal (this waterway can get
pretty choppy and windy). Occassionaly I will bring the boat to the
beach and ride along the coast.

I will be taking the boat on day trips that last about four hours -
probably no overnights yet.

I don't want to sit in water all day (I've had experience with rentals
that don't have plugs and my tush is wet for hours!).

Any suggestions?

I have looked at the WS Tarpon. Have paddled rentals that were
probably all Ocean Kayaks. I have only been inside a sit in once on a
river up north and I couldn't tell you what the brand was or anything
about it (I have no trouble getting in or tipping).

Thanks for your help.

HELP! Purchasing a boat
 

Elise,

I too have paddled the Avocet and liked it. But I suggest you back up a step.
Find the local kayak club and join. Ask members what they like and why. Try
as many of their boats as possible.

See if any local dealers have demo days and try as many boats as you can.

I strongly suggest you not take a decked (sit in) boat to the beach until you
have taken some lessons.

Brian Blankinship

HELP! Purchasing a boat
 

On 4-Aug-2003, (Blankibr) wrote:

But I suggest you back up a step.

This is very important advice. _Never_ buy a kayak on one person's
advice. Every person is different and has different objectives and desires.
You have to try lots of kayaks to find what kinds of things you prefer
and then make a decision on which to buy. Once you've narrowed
down your selection list, rent one of each and give them an extended
tryout. You also have to try them under different conditions. Some kayaks
are great in calm water and lousy in rough.

I think Ed should have said "try" not "buy".

Mike