Re: [Paddlewise] Paul Caffyn and rudders

Gerald Foodman wrote:

> I did not paddle the Caribou in following seas.  It was on protected water
> but with very strong wind, 25 knots with gusts to 35.  It was extremely
> difficult for me to hold direction.  

The Caribou has almost no tendency to weathercock in winds above 20
knots, unless the wind has a short fetch. In any significant seas the
weatherhealm disappears. On open water, it is only moderate winds that
create noticable weatherhelm, and then only when the boat is not trimmed
appropriately. Of course the use of the drop-down skegs simplifies
things by obviating the need to pay attention to trim.

> I think the Caribou would be great in surf, but not wind.

You would be correct on the first point, but wrong about the second
(unless you paddle mainly behind a jetty or in other conditions where
there is a short fetch, in which case even moderate boat handling skills
allow one to keep the boat on track).

Matt Broze wrote (in response to Gerald):

> So it seems you were experiencing the strong weather helm that I too noticed
> in the Caribou. The drop skeg should fix this though when it is necessary. I
> really liked the responsiveness of the Caribou and can see how paddlers
> could become devoted fans of it (especially if they have one with the skeg
> or stay out of side winds--and haven't paddled some of the kayaks you have
> for comparison).

Well Matt, this may be an example of the blind agreeing with the blind
(to use your term). Gerald paddled the Caribou once, behind a jetty. How
much experience do you have with the boat in exposed conditions? Not
much, I suspect. Moreover, your belief that people could only be fans of
the Caribou if they have not paddled the Express strikes me as a bit
narrow minded (although it is certainly consistent with your
reputation--Mariner uber alles). Believe it or not, some Caribou
paddlers, such as myself, have paddled the Express, and prefer the
Caribou. I even paddle in side winds. :-) 

Dan Hagen
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