Aquanaut LV

Having paddled about 40 miles in cold water temps and one pool session with this new acquisition, I can not write a review but will offer some first impressions. It seems that very few of the composite version of this boat are out there; most posts are for the RM version with different measurements, perhaps with different behavior. I've paddled with several folks that participate here and we were all pondering with the LV's shorter 17-1 length, if the rocker and turning maneuverability are proportionately the same as the regular Aquanaut or if the boat is less tracky, with a higher percentage of rocker. While I could really edge this boat way over on its side and roll it easily in one pool session, local 45 degree water had me being too overcautious and conservative on edging it well on several outings (personal worries of cold shock perhaps). I could get over easily for a sculling brace but thus far, not a static brace as I can now do in my OI.

As often mentioned, the Valley fit, finish, and construction are fantastic. The gelcoat finish overwhelmed an NDK Romany along side it in the store. As obtained, the skeg, cockpit coaming, foot pegs, deck lines, and bungees, fittings, and bulkheads were perfect.

For my 5-7 158 pound size, the cockpit fit and thigh brace locations are perfect. Good contact but not tight. Better for me than an Avocet composite I tried which was more roomy.

Paddling in some returning wind and chop on Lake George, the LV seems to offer the same great confidence that posters here mention about the regular-sized Aquanaut. Plenty of primary and secondary stability without a need for much bracing in the conditions I paddled in thus far. The boat seems to offer all the desired speed I could want. I did not feel any disappointment compared to my Impex OI speed per equal paddling effort. The Avocet felt way slower than an OI.

It seems that smaller people who end up in full-sized Aquanauts, Explorers, and Caribous may be much happier in LV sized boats like this one. When not doing extended camping trips, it is less boat to propel, lower windage impact, and less to put on the car racks. I am thinking that this LV will fulfill my needs as a day boat and a boat for weekend trips, with more than adequate storage when going like a backpacker and leaving the kitchen sink at home.

An internet check found plenty of Aquanaut LV RMs out in the retail market. I just don't know how easy it is to find and purchase this composite version. If that is the case, too bad because I believe the composite LV may be the perfect compromise between well rockered dayboats like the Avocet and longer boats. It all depends where you paddle of course. I do not paddle rock gardens and twisty coastlines where loose boats are desired; mainly larger inland lakes and rivers. At 17-1, it seems to be a great length where maneuverability, speed, and storage are desired for my objectives. Other boats in this category seem limited. The Explorer LV I tried had too tight a cockpit for me. Likewise the Force 3 which may be more tracky and is longer, Maybe the Tempest 165 is within this category.

In summary, pleased with very initial paddling in this boat. One of the more important questions on this boat might be, what is the looseness rating, between an Avocet and regular Aquanaut? Looks like I need the water to warm up to feel totally at ease playing with the boat and seeing.

The initial stability is touchy at first entry, but after a few strokes you realize it has good to moderate stability. I have come from a stable folding kayak (Feathercraft Kahuna) so I notice the stability a little more.

The fit and finish is good, the cockpit is snug (I'm 6'1" 190lbs), but once in, it has a good feel and is a good fit. My only complaint is the room for my size 12 feet. On the foot rests they just fit under the low deck. The seat is comfortable though it took some time to get the back rest just right. Thigh and hip bracing is quite good.

Since this is my first boat with a skeg, I have enjoyed learning how it works best in the different conditions. In winds from different directions the skeg gives an instant reaction and is easy to adjust. It gives you confidence under way as does the boat in general. I don't miss my stable, ruddered folder much as it is like stepping from a family sedan to a classic British sports car.

Besides the foot room, I guess the only other complaint is the weight. I think the trade off for that is the three layer construction. It is much more solid than most other plastic boats.

Pros:
It is extremely maneuverable. It turns very easily with a slight lean. It is suitable for both big water and narrow rivers. Both primary and secondary stability are excellent. It is very quick and gets up to speed very rapidly. The plastic is very firm (triple-layer) and the boat is well-constructed and thought out (deck rigging, hatches, etc.). It is reasonably well-balanced when carried (although I believe it weighs more than the catalogue listed weight of 55 lbs.) It excels in waves- I have used it in waves up to 3'-4'. The hatch covers are outstanding and the bulkheads are solid. The skeg is easy to use although I choose not to use it much.

Cons:
Although Valley claims they have improved the backband, I found the backband uncomfortable and the straps and velcro shift when I paddle. I will change it out for a new backband this year. I found the thigh pads uncomfortable and restrictive (even though they are adjustable) and could not find a suitable position. This may just be my build but I removed the thigh pads.

One of the positives may also be a negative. The boat is very sensitive to even the slightest of movements or wind so at times I have to make small adjustments to keep the boat tracking straight. The dealer indicated that you have to actively work a Brit boat which is the tradeoff for maneuverability and stability. Incidentally, the tracking seems much better in textured than in flat water. I'd much rather have a highly maneuverable boat than one that always tracks dead straight but is difficult to turn except with an extreme lean.

All things considered, I am very pleased with the performance of the Aquanaut and purchased it realizing that I could make the sundry comfort modifications.