RE: [Paddlewise] Opinions of CD Gulfstream

I have a Sirocco, which is the plastic version of the Gulfstream. I have
only paddled a Gulfstream once, but my recollection is that it has
substantially the same feel as the Sirocco, except that the Gulfstream is
faster and prettier. The boats have virtually the same dimensions and hull
shape. I got plastic so I could use it extensively in rock gardening without
serious damage.
I think it is an excellent boat for someone starting out. Primary stability
is not so high that it prevents aggressive edging, and secondary stability
is very high so you can put the boat on edge with confidence. It carves
turns nicely on edge. 
The boat rolls easier than any other boat I have paddled. So easily that
after paddling mine exclusively for a while, I find that my roll is sloppy
when I get in my other boats. That's a plus for a beginner, because when it
comes time to learn and master your roll (do it soon), you'll want to stack
the deck in your favor.
In surf zone conditions it handles with confidence going forward, backward,
or sideways, but you don't always have a choice as to which. If the waves
aren't to steep I can sometime steer on them and make a bottom turn, but
when they get steeper the boat will broach like any other sea kayak.
The skeg is marginal on my boat, and the Sea Kayaker test of the Gulfstream
indicates that the same holds true for the glass version. The skeg has just
enough area to cancel weather cocking, but not enough to make the boat favor
downwind. That's not necessarily a negative, but you have to be careful when
packing the boat. If you pack too bow heavy, you won't be able to cancel the
weather cocking with the skeg. If you carefully pack stern heavy, you won't
need the skeg anyway.
I would recommend it, but don't delude yourself into thinking you'll be
happy with it for 10 years. I don't believe it will "seem a barge" after a
few weeks or months, but your tastes in a boat will evolve as you find your
niche in the sport.
Good luck.
Steve Brown
 

-----Original Message-----
 Hello from a newbie to the list and to paddling.  I will be buying a
composite kayak soon and our local vendor has a limited selection.  They do
have a Gulfstream and it seems to meet most of my criteria.  I'll be trying
it out this week (with a little cooperation from the retailer) and would
appreciate the input of people who have paddled it.  What should I be aware
of or look for.  Thanks for your help.

Andy Mulina



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