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Launching: Spray HPK *PIC*
By:Dan Caouette (CSCWC)
Date: 6/10/2014, 4:11 pm

There was a bunch of talk a little while back about surf ski-like kayaks. After some shipping delays Zack finally received his kayak-if-ied "Spray" a few weeks ago. It's basically a Bjorn Thomasson Spindrift surf ski with a kayak deck. He sent a few on the water pictures and first paddling impressions:

I was able to paddle the boat for the first time a little Thursday evening. I was able to do a 5.1 mph avg up stream (only 2 miles) and 6.6 mph avg down stream. I should of done better both ways but was tired from a weekend + of hard bike rides. The boat sprinted up to 8.2 mph going cross stream. I will hopefully have more numbers as I get more time in the boat. It handles well and is very stable even leaned over. While leaning over it doesn’t want to tip further than leaned or force its self back flat. I was able to paddle then coast and lean far enough to bring water into the bucket… Pretty impressive for me and not having knee pads. I hope to get to try and roll the boat soon.

If you need more specific details or pictures let me know and I’ll share any info/feedback that I have.

I wonder how the boat would of felt at 18 in wide and of the hull was a little flatter with less rocker. But I assume as it is now will do great in ocean conditions but would be a little faster on flat water with a flatter hull… Kinda wish I was more advanced and versed in ocean travel to give better feed back.

The rear two hatches have great storage room. I did a small over night this past weekend. I have not used the front yet. The cockpit worked out great for leg drive.

Full project details on the website:
http://watercraft.clearstreamwood.com/photo-gallery/kayaks/2014-spray-hpk-zack-tn/

Messages In This Thread

Launching: Spray HPK *PIC*
Dan Caouette (CSCWC) -- 6/10/2014, 4:11 pm
Re: Launching: Spray HPK
John Messinger -- 6/10/2014, 6:13 pm
Re: Launching: Spray HPK
JohnAbercrombie -- 6/10/2014, 6:38 pm
Re: Launching: Spray HPK
Craig -- 6/11/2014, 4:01 am
Re: Launching: Spray HPK
MattD. -- 6/11/2014, 9:58 am