Elias

I took this ship out for a test run some time back with the intention of buying the blue storm model. It was fast and not really a dime turner but figured out how to make it turn fast. The rudder allowed the ship to navigate through the water with ease against the crossing wind. Im a big guy 6'4" 290 lbs. Getting in was easy getting out somewhat challenging but was doable. I rolled the ship over to slide out with ease as I didnt mind getting wet. There is plenty of storage for a week trip for myself as I wouldn't load unnecessary items on it. The ship is stable and user friendly. I couldn't complain as this ship was the first one that checked all the boxes for me. Since then I've been in an accident and looking for that elusive Necky Elias. Get one youll enjoy it.

I bought the Necky Elias poly sight unseen and more importantly unpaddled. Touring boats are not to abundant in Colorado so the internet came to the rescue. First a little about me so it gives you a reference point. I'm 5' 11" 180lbs in the buff and wear a size 13 NRS paddle shoe in the boat. My first boat is a Jackson Rouge 10. I consider myself a beginner but a newb no longer. I consider the Elias to be a good looking boat. At 15.6 feet long (including rudder) it seemed a good fit for lake use. It weighs 56.4 pounds on my scale. The cockpit dimensions are slightly smaller then the specs on Neckys website. The width is 15" the length 32.75" and the depth in front of the coaming is 12". The cockpit narrows quickly and with the foam thigh braces makes for a tight entry. The braces can be adjusted but must be unscrewed to move them. I like the back band but found the seat felt too flat and put my feet to sleep. The hatches fit well but the bulkheads have a hole drilled in them to relieve pressure which may allow a little water in. I found a spoonful in the aft compartment after a capsize. The foot braces also work the rudder and are of the sliding type. They are plastic and use a bungee to adjust their travel length.

The boat has a fair amount of rocker and likes to turn but edging and proper paddle technique are required to master it. I've been in 2' waves and confused rough water (great fun) from power boats with no problems. The boat also likes to weathercock and this is where the rudder comes in handy. Rudder down the boat goes where you want and you can concentrate on covering some miles despite the wind.

When I first got the boat I didn't like it a bit. I found it uncomfortable and difficult to control. I was tempted to sell it and buy another, I'm glad I didn't. I padded up the seat with minicell foam by fitting it underneath the seat in its recesses and installed some hip snaps on the seat brace. I then removed the thigh braces as my knees lock up tight beneath the coaming and now I had the comfort I wanted. I worked on my paddling technique and edging and now have the control I wanted and can now say I really do like this boat.

I think Elias may be too small for those taller than I but the boat will lend itself to a beginner who can then grow with it.