Re: [Paddlewise] Thinking about a First Boat

On Tue, 08 Aug 2000 16:59:50, Wes Boyd  wrote:
>At 07:43 PM 8/8/00 EDT, LedJube_at_aol.com wrote:
>>Hi Mark,
>>
>>  I guess the grass does seem greener..........
>>
>>  On this side of "The Pond", many of us lust after British boats. You may
>>want to check out the VCP Avocet, the P&H Capella, Impex Diamante.  Each of
>>these boats fit your usage and will probably be much cheaper that the
>>Carolina.
>
>Agreed, but for a slightly different reason. The Perception probably isn't
>a heck of a lot better than the boat you have now, and you're obviously
>already lusting for more performance. I can't speak to prices on your side
>of the pond, but the Canadian-built (I believe) Diamante is considered an
>excellent boat for the price.
>
>-- Wes

Hi Mark,

I would only add the following thought(s) for now...  I really don't like the 
term "beginner's boat" - especially when considering a purchase.  A "beginner's 
boat" should last you about three days.  If you're really enjoying paddling 
(how could you not?), I'd recommend getting a boat you, your skills, and your 
inspiration can "grow in to" rather than one that just "matches" your current 
skill and the types of conditions you "might" venture into at this point.

This approach makes sense to me for a few reasons.  It will last you a lot 
longer, being more cost efficient in the long run.  You won't be frustrated 
with it in a few months, when you find that your skills and your inspiration to 
go further offshore have already surpassed what the boat is capable of.  You 
don't really want to have to buy a new boat every few months.  A really good 
boat will also inspire you to learn more, and learn it faster.  If it means 
taking your time to find a boat that really inspires you in many ways, fits you 
comfortably, is eminently seaworthy, and is well made, it's worth the wait of a 
few more weeks, months, etc.

In addition to all the more "practical" considerations, be sure that you love 
the boat aesthetically as well.  Every boater deserves to love their boaty in 
all ways, not just in the ways that "make logical sense".  A boat with the 
basic qualities I've mentioned should give you years of enjoyment and 
inspiration.

Again - please don't buy a "beginner's boat" unless you intend to be a beginner 
for a good long while.

Enjoy!

Melissa





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