[Paddlewise] VCP Argonaut for sale

VCP Argonaut for sale.  Excellent boat for a large paddler (190+ lbs. Range).  At 17'7", the Argonaut is a fast boat, yet its hull shape allows for superb maneuverability and agility in calm or "interesting" conditions.  A high deck allows for an easy fit for a larger paddler, but also provides more surface area for wind action.  This is readily adjusted for by a well-made skeg (I check it at the beginning and end of each day, but no maintenance has been needed over a season). 

 

My reason for selling is simple:  As I said, it's a good boat for a larger paddler.  A successful weight loss program (mine, not the boat's)  has changed the equation.  I have had the boat for 1+  seasons, and it's in excellent shape.

 

A new Argonaut (stripped) goes for $2850.  I'm offering the boat with compass, protective plastic coating, and custom outfitting for $2300.

 

Here is a site with more information about the Argonaut:

   http://www.atlantickayak.com/valley_canoe_products.htm

 

And here is the boat in question, in action:

   http://www.atlantickayaktours.com/Pages/ExpertCenter/Control-Skills/Control-4.shtml

 

Reply backchannel please.

 

           Bob Volin

 

Read on for a critique that I wrote after paddling the boat for a month or so:

 

Cockpit Area:

I'm 6'0", with 33" inseam legs.  I weigh about 200 lbs (before dinner).  I find the seat and backrest comfortable.  The cockpit was initially uncomfortable for me because the skeg control indent on the left side is just where my knee wants to be.  I solved that problem by padding out both sides with 1" minicell.  Moving to a high volume deck from a Romany 16' required some adjusting, since there was a good deal of space between my legs and the thigh braces.  I cut 3" x 3" x 6" blocks of minicell and shaped them into thigh braces that ensure a snug fit.  With those braces and the amazing secondary stability of this boat, edging is easy and effective. 

 

Storage and Capacity:

The Argonaut has all the capacity that anyone might want in an expedition kayak.  The day hatch is larger than the Romany's, but I can still reach anything inside while seated in the boat.  Forward and stern hatches have lots of room.  The large oval hatch covers make for easy access and permit a wider choice of gear than do the 10" round Romany hatches.   

 

Maneuverability:

The Argonaut has less initial stability than the Romany (which itself is said to be "tippy" by beginning paddlers), but great secondary stability.  The Argonaut (and its smaller cousin, the Avocet), hold an edge with ease.  As a result, the Argonaut is easy to turn when under way.  It responds well to an edged course change while maintaining a forward stroke, and equally well to a bow rudder. Since it's longer than the Romany, it takes more work to turn the Argonaut from a dead stop with sweep strokes. This has practical implication for close-in work such as rescues and rock gardens. Speed and tracking are both very good.  I was pleasantly surprised at how well the boat tracks in reverse.  Although the Argonaut, with its high deck, is subject to weather cocking, the skeg takes care of that readily. 

 

Miscellaneous Observations:

I felt that the arrangement of bungie cord on the fore deck was marginally adequate. I added another line with little difficulty.  The recessed deck fittings are easy to work with.  

If you use a lay-back roll, the Argonaut's relatively high rear deck may interfere with the lay-back.  On the other hand, adjustment should come easily since the hull rolls very readily.

 

Quality and Craftsmanship:

Everyone remarks on the beauty of this boat.  I can't speak for other colors, but the hue and finish of this "Rail Blue" boat are very pleasing.  I feel that the lines of the boat are also aesthetically satisfying. The workmanship appears to be uniformly good:  there are no rough edges, no missed details. The skeg control mechanism feels sturdy and reliable.

 

Finishing Thoughts:

The Argonaut is a high-volume, expedition-ready kayak with many of the features of shorter craft that are designed for maneuverability and performance in challenging conditions.  It performs at its best with a fair load.
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