[Paddlewise] Volume and Safety

I am considering either a Mariner II (21.5" beam) or Mariner MAX (23.5"
beam) to add to current fleet, which consists of a Mariner Express (22.2"
beam) and CD Solstice GTS (22" beam).  Now, I am quite comfortable in rough,
but not too rough, water in my 22" boats.  Also, I have paddled George
Gronseth's Mariner II in a lesson in Deception Pass tidal rapids and had no
trouble with it.

But, I have a feeling that I can decrease the likelihood of a capsize, due
to some combo of carelessness and disturbed water, by increasing the volume
of my next boat.  Certainly, too much volume would decrease safety by making
the boat unwieldy and poorly fitting.  But a bit more volume might be
helpful.  (Ralph Diaz has said that an advantage of folding boats with their
inherent stability is decreased likelihood of capsize.)

The most likely time for capsize for me is in following conditions, which I
love to paddle in.  Therefore a boat that is more forgiving in following
conditions will also decrease the likelihood of capsize.  I have heard that
the MAX is easier and more forgiving down a wave than the II, or even the
Express.  Now that I think of it, what I am looking for is the easiest and
most forgiving boat, ie., least likely to capsize, when surfing follow seas
(not shore break).   I don't care about performance or responsiveness,
whatever they are.  When you are travelling down weather you are going fast
enough in any boat you can control.

Jerry

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