Re: [Paddlewise] NDK layups...

----- Original Message -----
From: Robert C. Cline <rccline_at_swbell.net>

> I think I had posted here that NDK was no longer making Kevlar boats. That
> is incorrect.  They are making them, but they are recommending their "Elite"
> layup over the Kevlar model for "heavy" use.  It was the Elite model which I
> recently paddled.
>
> Here are the details, quoted from NDK website:
>
> >
> > LAYUP OPTIONS.
> > Standard: The standard lay up suites centre use and will withstand a
> > considerable amount of abuse. The Explorer weighs in at a maximum of 60 lbs
> > but on average 58 lbs. This lay-up is also advised for kayakers who are going
> > to undertake the longer expedition.

My 1999 standard layup fiberglass Romany Explorer with the skeg and front
deck-mounted bilge pump options weighs 76 lbs.

I've seen at least one other manufacturer indicate that *their* specified weights are
for a stripped down shell, weighed without hatch covers, deck fittings, options, etc.
I suspect the 58 lbs. figure above (which I've also seen on the NDK spec sheet) is
for the shell alone.

Anyone ordering one of these boats expecting to receive a ready-to-paddle 58 lb. boat
is going to be disappointed. I've been told the pump option adds about 3.5 lbs. I
don't know how much the skeg option adds, but the NDK literature recommends the skeg
option for crossings. Nigel his very ownself told Marie and I that he doesn't use the
skeg, but, as I pointed out to him, there's a big difference between his world-class
paddling skills and mine! It's probably a good idea to get the skeg. YMMV, of course.
:-)

Robert, do you know what the additional cost is for the carbon/kevlar version of the
Explorer?

Regards,

Bruce

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