The Delta 17 was my first ever kayak purchase, I purchased it Canoeacopia this year. After having taken it out on several lake and rivers, I couldn't be happier with my purchase.
I was looking for something I could learn with recreationally this year and for that this kayak is overkill. This baby glides effortlessly through the water
and tracks perfectly.
But my future plans with same kayak, once I build up skills on rolling and re-entry are to take it on overnight camping river trips, and out onto the great lakes for trips to Apostles Islands. I wanted a kayak that could handle that need once I was ready.
One thing the sales person talked me into which I thought was going to NOT be worth was getting a nicer all carbon fiber paddle. I've been blown away with how big of a difference a good kayak like the Delta 17 combined with a good paddle makes. On my longer river runs, I've traded off with folks whom rented, and it's amazing how fast you get fatigued with cheaper solutions. I been out on several 4-5 hour length paddles this year and have experienced no fatigue from paddling while in my Delta. However 20 minutes in a rental and I can feel it.
Finally, personally I feel the design of the Delta kayak is a differentiator! I belong to several kayak clubs and people from all of them comment on how nice it looks compared to anything else! Included in that smart design is a very easy way to lock up your kayak. When doing river trips we all drop our kayaks off up river, then drive down river to drop cars off, only to drive back up river to start our journey again. The Delta 17 is a more expensive choice, and being able to easily lock it u and keep it secure when I am not around it adds to piece of mind.
