That's just it. Sitting in the middle of crossing taking pictures, eating a relaxed lunch, knowing that if I get hurt I don't need to tie up a third kayak for the return journey. What about John Dowd's comments? He started Ecomarine, was one of the founders of Sea Kayaking mag, he is completely pro sponsons now. Is his opinion that trivial?

: I have to agree with Lee, skills and judgement are #1. Equipment follows, but
: the effectiveness of the equipment is dependent on the skills and
: judgement already present.

: Nick brought up a great point--sponsons, while not a panacea, could be a
: great benefit in some situations. Having a third paddler, though, to form
: a rafted tow is just as easy. And when they're not needed for rafting,
: they might bring chocolate chip cookies, making them even MORE valuable
: than sponsons!!!

: Shawn