[Paddlewise] Feathercraft Purchase & Paddle

Well, bought my boat a couple of weeks ago and set it up.  Settled on the 
Khatsalano S.  I was debating between the Khatsalano and the S, but what 
made up my mind was the price.  I was able to get the S (sewn sealskin 
version) for about $2,000 cheaper at Mountain Co-op since they were getting 
rid of last year's models to make way for the new welded sealskin kayaks 
(they did not have the Khats regular).  This was even cheaper than what they 
sold them for a few years ago -- this is new and last year's model.

Very nice boat, like the low deck so you don't bang your knuckles, although 
I did enough banging of the knuckles while setting it up.  Space didn't seem 
to be a problem, although I couldn't fit my -30 sleeping bag in -- I put 
that in someone else's kayak while I took the tent.  Normally, wouldn't use 
that bag but decided I wanted to be cozy and comfortable in the -2-0/30-32 
degree temperature at night and I knew storage wasn't a problem.  Seems like 
I could pretty well pack my kitchen sink with me.  I had my large end bags 
blown up all the way.  I wasn't quite sure how much you can deflate them to 
stuff more gear in.
What would be reasonable, halfway blown up if you wanted to stuff in more 
gear?

Boat is very, very stable.  Forgot at first to blow up the sponsons and the 
boat dragged but still very stable.  Boat seems to track very well but in a 
wind and trying to turn took a lot more effort if you weren't using the 
rudder.

Getting in and out was a little difficult.  I usually don't follow standard 
entry/exiting.  Just shove one foot in and sit down, let the other hang out, 
paddle out a bit, and then eventually put the other leg in.  So, I guess I 
will have to practice safe entries and exits.  Part of the problem was 
trying to locate my foot pedals as I would be rummaging inside the seasock, 
but I rewatched the video feathercraft sends and realized I didn't "burp" 
the bag which may make a difference.

Had a great weekend paddling the Cathcart Islands in Georgian Bay which is 
located 2 1/2 hours from Toronto, south of Parry Sound.  For those who know 
the area, you can put in at Parry Island Marina and there is camping 
facilities next to the marina.  You can also camp pretty well anywhere on 
the outside islands.  I believe this is part of the 30,000 Island chain but 
it's more like 50,000 islands as the water levels have been low and a lot 
more islands have been popping up.  Good for kayakers, bad for boaters.  You 
won't see boaters in this area since it would be too dangerous with all the 
rocks.

If you'd like to see some pictures of the trip, here's the website address.

http://communities.msn.ca/WendysGorp2Pages



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