>However, I do not think length of boat is that important unless the > >paddlers in the larger boats are really steaming along. > > What is "Really Steaming along?" What I'm really asking is what is > average _cruising_ speed for most of you? I have clocked myself on my > GPS many times and when I am paddling along at a comfortable pace I am > usually doing about 3-3.5 mph I typically paddle an 8 nautical mile course, either in my Solstice GTS (17'7" by 22") or in my Mariner Express (16" by 23.5"). My average speed is between 4.0 and 4.25 knots. This is a comfortable pace for me in the sense that I could do it again at the same speed if I had a 10 minute rest but I am pleasantly tired at the end. I have carefully measured this course on a chart so I believe my speed is accurate. I don't find any difference in efficiency between my different length boats. The GTS is easier to push above 4.5 knots (for me that is steaming) but I cannot hold above 4.5 knots for 2 hours. I am 60, so I think that 3-3.5 mph is quite slow compared to what a good sea kayak is capable of allowing. Jerry *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Sun Dec 03 2000 - 00:31:44 PST
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