Inflatable Kayaks

[GunnerP]

Looking into buying an inflatable Kayak, just for a bit of fun at the W/E.
Now, I beleive through limited research, that Seyvlor is about the best make to buy.
Just wondering if anyone has any experience of these boats. And if anyone can tell me of any major differences between the Tahiti and Ranger models.

Just on viewing, the Ranger looks more durable, but anyone have any first hand experience.

http://www.brighton-canoes.co.uk/productpages/sevylor/pictures/ranger_green.jpg

Many thanks
GunnerP

[Yossarian]

The Amazon & Voyager (formerly Ranger) is similar to the Sevylor Tahiti model but comes with an additional polyester outer cover. This makes the boat more robust and ideal for river travelling and discovery trips of the sea shore and remote beaches. It includes two seats that provide good back support and front deck lines for extra storage.

From: http://www.kayaksandpaddles.co.uk/canoe/kayak/uk/shop/productpages/inflate/sevylor-ranger.htm

They look fun, might have to invest in one myself!

[shettie]

Gunner - I saw these outside a shop in Keswick in the lakes last year - Mrs Shettie was all for buying one - but they were only £99 there... They look not too bad in the flesh, take a hell of a time to get blown up though! and bulky when deflated...

[mustard]

I got a rigid sit-on kayak this summer and had great fun with the kids etc. But just a note of caution......when looking round for lakes/resevoirs to take the new toy on, many stipulated that inflatable kayaks were not welcome. Suggest you check before you travel some miles.

[GunnerP]

Thanks folks,
I thought the Ranger appeared more ruggedly built. According to spec, with the Seyvlor pump, they only take 6 minutes to inflate, and at 11.5 kg Im thinking it will be a peice of cake to hike a fair distance with (compared to a 50kg Bergan:PDT_Xtremez_42: )

Looking forward to having a play about. Just got to get a bargain.

Tahiti = £149 including Paddle and pump
Ranger = £169 'Buy it now' on Fleabay with no paddle or pump.

Still. it will be more of a summer toy I think

GunnerP

[GunnerP]

I finally took the plunge so to speak, and bought one on Fleabay.

So the inaugural sailing of the Lincolnshire Navy (Inland Div) took place yesterday.


The plan was to man pack the boat, hike a distance along a waterway and then paddle back.

After a few problems with DHL saying my address didnt exist, the boat, a Sevylor Ranger, arrived on Friday just in time for the weekend.
The boat packed down and fit my old SAS Para bergan a treat. The 5 piece paddles causing no problems. It weighed in about 28lbs, so was fairly easy to tote.

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b108/lightening51gxx/Picture105.jpg

Only a couple of photos, none once I was afloat, as I thought it prudent on the first trip to pack my camera into a waterproof bag (as it cost more than the boat did)
I planned my route, and had recce'd the river as much as possible during the week. The hike bit was about 5 miles, which was no problem except the footwear Id thought would be ideal for hiking/boating caused a couple of small blisters.


The boat took about 15 minutes to assemble and inflate ( a little less to repack at the end)

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b108/lightening51gxx/Picture108.jpg


The return paddle turned out to be about 6 miles because of the winding nature of the river (Witham). A little further than was comfortable for the first go.
And a few minor problems were discovered en route. Like the river going through a mill!! Which meant a 300m boat carry. And some low bridges and fallen trees to keep you on your toes.

http://img01.channeladvisor.de/105778/7a74181ff96dc9140d1dd4c58a33405a.jpg

Next trip may be a little more adventurous :wink:

P

[Wanderer]

I've had one of these for 3 years now and it is a great plaything. I take mine on rivers and also in 2 - 3 foot surf from beaches as its good for fishing from as well. Well worth the small hassle of inflating (about 10 mins) and it fits in the boot no probs.

Get one, have a blast...

[uber pikey]

I am an avid fisher(sea) and go out as often as I can, the only draw side to these boats is that using hooks in an inflatable(obviously) and catching wind(not the Hu Gardon type). However I would buy one tomorrow as the kids and I love the water and I know that they are cracking boats.
I hope you enjoy yourself mate:PDT_Xtremez_28: