This kayak has been optimized to be as efficient as possible at race pace, while fitting within the rules for a "Sea Kayak Touring Class" as defined by the United States Canoe Association: 20ft max length, with a 4" water line beam of at least 18". To that end it is 20ft long overall with a 19' - 11 1/8" waterline length. While the design is 18" wide at the 4" waterline, with a 200 lbs paddler the boat will draw 3 1/4" and the waterline beam will be 17 3/8". The hull is computer optimized to have a very low wetted surface area and extremely low wave-making shape for the minimum possible drag. The overall maximum beam flares out 20" to conform to the minimum requirements of the Blackburn Challenge Sea Kayak class. The flare also provides additional secondary stability and excellent downwind surfing performance.

The foredeck is high to provide a clean, dry and fast ride going into heavy chop on open water. The deck ahead of the cockpit is cut away to allow efficient, close-to-the-hull paddle strokes without hitting the boat. The cockpit is long enough for paddlers to sit with their knees up, free to move, allowing full leg extension and torso rotation.

This design is strip built with 1/8" thick strips on the deck and 3/16" strip on the hull. With a lightweight racing layup the kayak can be built with a bare-boat weight of 26 lbs and fully equipped at 31 lbs or less.

This design will perform best when equipped with a rudder. It tracks very straight and is barely effected by wind, but efficient steering at a race pace is best provided by an efficient rudder. It is a stiff turning boat, not suitable for races with a lot of sharp turns, but runs fast on a straight away. Due to the narrow waterline beam of this design, it is not particularly stable, however a low seat will make it comfortable for most experienced paddlers. A higher seat placement will allow better leverage for those comfortable with the stability.

Because of the non-stock strip specification, this kit is a special order.

Do you fit in this kayak?  Study our kayak fit chart.

Our strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead & cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. Optional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders.