uturn

Great advice, thank you all! Kayaking was my miracle cure for a major family problem. By two boys (now 15 and 19) had no more interest in doing outside activities with me. Actually, the 19 year old had no interest in anything outside. Then we stumbled across some kayaks while looking through Bass Pro Shop (as I was trying to get him interest in fishing … which I arguably also just learned how to do). He showed some interest and I eventually bought three. He will go any time, anywhere. Then we took that EMS rescue class and loved the maneuverability of the Sea Kayaks. I did enjoy it myself, but my real ulterior motive is to still have something that my boys want to do with me (aside from indoor stuff like movies). Having to buy three of anything presents a problem. I am not wealthy and if I can swing three Sea Kayaks, I won’t be able to afford swapping them out until I find the right one for me. Maybe buying three different used Kayaks is the way to go?

Thanks for all the info! I own 3 flat water boats. I've had them for two years. I took a Kayak rescue class taught by EMS and was introduced to Sea Kayaks. I found them to be a different kind of fun and really want to try Ocean Kayaking. Plus, I was a Marine Biologist and avid scuba diver many years ago. I love the ocean. I know I will not find the "perfect"kayak for me my first try. But since I have to buy three of everything (two sons) I really can't afford to make too many mistakes. I guess the idea of buying used Kayaks may be best. I was thinking that a Fiberglass or Kevlar boat would be too expensive. I did like the Tsumani boats used in the class. Since I will probably buy used, I should make a list of different boats so I will know what to look for.

OK. I have had flat-bottom Heritage Kayaks for a few years. My sons and I use them for paddling around and attempting to fish (I call it "hook throwing" because its much less frustrating to think about it as a separate sport since we rarely catch anything :-) Last Spring we attended a Kayak rescue course taught by EMS. We had a great time with the Sea Kayaks they provided and decided to buy some this year. We would like to camp from them on the Maine Island trail. I also plan to participate in events sponsored by this club. The Kayaks we used were Wilderness Tsunami and Tempest. We are all big, so I was thinking about getting three Tsunamis. Or at least one for me (not sure if I can swing three this year). I'd also like to get a dry suit for next winter. The summer season is just too short here. Given 3 larger guys, what would you suggest ? Thanks you in advance! -Craig

I'm planning to buy a Sea Kayak this spring. I live in Norwood, Ma. We have an EMS and a Bass Pro shop but I would really like to find a store that specializes in Kayaks. Southern RI would be OK as well. It doesn't have to have the "lowest" prices, average is ok. Or, would you recommend buying online? Thanks!