Re: [Paddlewise] advanced sea kayak (fwd)

Okay I'm taking a beating on this topic but I'll keep trying ;-)

Ralph Diaz wrote:

>A beginner in an advanced boat is a beginner.
>An advanced paddler in a beginner\start up boat is an advanced paddler.

Lets assume someone is already an advanced/expert paddler.  Someone 
comfortable in tidal rips, irregular chop, shore break, strong winds, self 
rescues, towing others to safety, etc..

<snip>

> The advanced boats can do wonderful things in the hands of experienced
> paddlers with superb skills.  But beginners and intermediate paddlers
> are much better off in boats more suited for them.  They may never
> develop the skills to take advantage of an advanced boat and may have
> lots of hairy experiences they could avoid in a more suitable boat.

So what are the characteristics of this advanced boat doing wonderful
things in the hands of the skilled paddler? 


I'm out for a week starting May 12 so I might as well try my current
wishes for sea kayak..

I'm contemplating a round bottom/V hull kayak without much rocker, 
more in the bow than the stern, smooth curved gunwales so that it carves 
nice turns when on edge, a front deck that sheds waves prior to them 
hitting me in the chest, neutral handling in a crosswind, 
a boat that stays level when I sprint it, easily rides following seas,
and a very comfy seat where my legs never think about going to sleep...

And good characteristics in waves, no piercing waves and submarining,
or riding way over the top and slamming down on the other side.

kirk
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