[Former Member]

I’ve been pleased with my Delta 16 so far (about 2 years).  Having used kevlar hulls previously, I was uncertain about plastic but decided to give it a go.  The boat is light at 48 pounds, reasonably stiff and tracks well.  As to durability, I avoid dragging it up and down beaches, but I did drop the bow off the roof rack onto the road one day, and it survived that just fine.  I doubt that the ABS/acrylic plastic will have the longevity of glass or kevlar, and I understand that the hulls have to go to the manufacturer in Maple Ridge for any major repairs.  Were I doing far-flung expeditions I would want to learn more about how to do field repairs, which can be tricky.  I haven’t noted any “oil-canning” that poly boats are vulnerable to (where the boat deforms, sometimes permanently, when pressured onto roof-rack bars).  I should note, though, that I use Yakima j-bars, which eliminate that problem.    Overall, I have no issues with thermoformed plastic as a material.  Hope that helps.

[Former Member]

I have a set of Yakima roof rails with round bars that are in perfect condition – they fit on roof rails.

Have bought a new vehicle that requires a different system.

Asking $200 or offers.

[Former Member]

The other day Marc posted a question on this forum about Thermoform boats.  I am surprised that no one has replied.  There are several club members that have owned Thermoformed boats for some years.  Please pass on your experience and let us know how these boats have performed over the years.

How does the hull bottom hold up to being dragged up and down the beach?

Does the hull hold it’s shape, or is the bottom prone to developing waves like some rotomolded boats?

Has anyone damaged their boats and had them repaired?

Are there any features – positive or negative – that stand out for you about your Thermoformed boat?

If you own a Thermoform boat, please pass on your experience and opinions.  If you are paddling with a club member that has a Thermoform boat, please urge them to respond to this post.  Thanks.

Harald

[Former Member]

hmm

[Mick Allen]

Now headwinds . . . so, better luck next time: He’s going to the inside of Nootka Island [whew, I bet!]and bailing somewhere like Zeballos or Tahsis.
When he gets going, he sure pounds it down though.

 

[Admin S. Jensen]

Randy’s doing great again and is really moving again after some harsh weather has let up a bit for him. You can track him in near real time at:

https://share.garmin.com/RandyChatterjee

and you can follow other commentary and discussion about his trip at:

http://www.westcoastpaddler.com/community/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=8364

We all wish Randy a safe journey with lots of great stories to tell. For Randy’s sake I wish more whales and cetaceans will keep him company…he seems to be a bit lonely! 🙂

Nicole

[Maureen Benzon]

Saturday 20 May. Deep Cove to Twin Islands. Paddle and play (optional). Suitable for all levels. On the water at 8.00 (to avoid parking issues) and I would like to be back by 12.00 which makes it a very relaxed paddle (Approximately 6nm round trip). Please email me if you would like to join us. benzon@telus.net

 

[Mick Allen]

Too bad, it looks like he’s had to hunker down at Lawn Point because of the weather. Crossed fingers that he leaves when it’s safe and has a good transit past Brooks Peninsula.

When he had the conditions, he sure was pounding the time and distance down. I’m sure he’s disappointed but has no reason to be: ultimately, its all about the journey.

[Former Member]

Hi Mick,

Great idea to share Randy’s circumnavigation goal with the membership; I’ve been following and sending short message of encouragement.  I’m sure Randy greatly appreciates our support.

Thanks for sharing 🙂

Chantal

[Mick Allen]

I don’t know how many are following, but Randy has been putting down great [nautical] mileage averages to hit a record circumnavigation.

Unfortunately, he’s had to temporarily stop right at Cape Scott[!] because of conditions – and we’ll have to see how long this lasts. Obviously his time is jeopardized, ratz.

This shows where he’s been and how he’s been doing:

https://share.garmin.com/RandyChatterjee

on LHS, click on arrow under his name to see messages and time.

[Karin Hartner]

Meet at Wellington Point Park at 2:30 for a 3pm launch. See the trips list for details. So far not too many takers so it will be a small group.

If you want to come contact Karin     karinhartner@gmail.com

[Cynthia Kennedy]

Looking for a ride only on Friday 26 May to the Pacifice Paddling Symposium folks I am coming from downtown Vancouver Friday,  I have to be at work until 2:30pm at St. Pauls Hospital. My kayak and gear is already going Thursday. So plan A. Car pool over with someone on the ferry and share costs but later departure and miss happy hour 🙁. Plan B take the float plan from downtown Vancouver and arrive Victoria inner harbour (950 Wharf street) at 4:05pm and someone can provide a rideshare out the college.

[Former Member]

Hi Everyone,

I’ll be attending the Pacific Paddling Symposium for the first time this year (May 26-28, 2017); I’m wondering who else will be attending from SKABC.  Care to share?

Chantal

[Former Member]

San Juan Island car camping kayak trip (2A-3A)

Date: Thursday June 1 to Sunday June 4

Likely to see whales and dolphins on Haro Strait, visit local historical sites by kayak and possibly visit the whale research station and a lavender farm by car.

Fees for group site are $32 CAD per person for the weekend payable to Simone upon signing up and $15 US cash for weekend launch fee payable at the camp ground .

Participants require experience with currents.

Max 4 vehicles /8 kayakers

Contact Simone… sdavram@gmail.com  for details.

[Karin Hartner]

This is just a reminder that there is a day paddle from Ambleside to Eagle Harbour on this coming Saturday. Let me know if you want to join us and I’ll send details.

karinhartner@gmail.com

[Author]

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