Several posted freshwater trips have stated that a 14 tf kayak or longer was either strongly recommended or required. The reason was never explained.
I'm newly moved back to RI. I started kayaking with the Madison paddle club in Wisconsin about 5 years ago and did a bunch of rivers and lakes with them and I don't think I ever saw a kayak over 14 ft. In fact, nearly all were between 8-12 ft and the trip leaders generally paddled some of the shorter boats.
I had a 12 ft Kestral which I gave to a friend and bought a 10 ft Pongo when I got here. The only substantial difference I've noted is that it's less tippy - which is why I got it. Maybe a little less efficient but not a lot.
So I'm puzzled. Can someone please educate me?
Wade
Re: Kayak lengths
Posted by Erik on 7/14/2022, 8:03 pm, in reply to "Kayak lengths"
When appropriate, we try to give guidance on the right boat for the trip - long or short.
I have a trip coming up with a requirement for 14-foot boats - Point Judith Pond on July 23rd. It is open water, 8-miles and subject to wind and waves. I know from experience that folks in longer boats do better. Does that mean that someone in a shorter boat couldn't keep up - not necessarily. But I'd want them to understand the conditions, and I'd want to feel comfortable that they can keep up with the group. Not fun for anyone to be on a trip with the wrong boat. If you want to join a trip with that requirement, you can speak to the leader.
We also have trips on narrow rivers where shorter boats are recommended/required.
Not trying to exclude anyone - just want to make sure that people have the right boat for the trip.
Re: Kayak lengths
Posted by wade bushman on 7/16/2022, 10:08 am, in reply to "Re: Kayak lengths"
I appreciate your reply. just to be clear - I was talking specifically about fresh water trips on small lakes and rivers.
Wade
Re: Kayak lengths
Posted by Erik on 7/16/2022, 11:10 am, in reply to "Re: Kayak lengths"
I don't think you would see that requirement on those types of trips - looking through the calendar for the rest of the year I didn't see any other trips with a boat requirement - long or short.