[Paddlewise] Please Help with Kayak Choices

Hi,

First allow me to introduce myself. My name is Hal and for the record I am 
a 42 year old male.

I have been an OC1 enthusiast for a few years. Paddling primarily on 
"wilderness rivers" in the Michigan area.

Having been recently transplanted to Stockholm, Sweden I immediately 
learned two things.
1) What I have been paddling is called a Canadian :-)

and more importantly
2) Judging by the waters around here it is time to experience sea kayaking.

Here is the catch! I am an er, uhm, uh, full figured gentleman (i.e. fat 
dude)

At 6 foot 285 pounds (180cm, 130kg) I don't fit in most 'yaks. I have yet 
to find a hardshell that I can fit in. The largest cockpit I have found 
here so far,  was the P&H Poly Capella and it was too tight. It looks like 
the PWS Thunderbird might work but I have no way of knowing without flying 
about 7000 miles to try one out. Never mind the shipping to get it back to 
Sweden.

I also believe that a Swedish built boat called "Caribou CXXLH" (www.mar  
strandskajaker.se) can be custom modified for me.

I have started looking at the tandem folding boats. It seems the open 
cockpit design with a solo spray skirt might be my answer.
I have looked at the Klepper Expedition II and am waiting for the 
opportunity to look at a Feathercraft Klondike.

Please Help, by commenting on my mentioned options and offering any others 
you can think of!

THANKS,
Hal


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