Profile

Purpose: 1. pack in trunk of convertible car 2. access relatively calm water for exploring, birding, escape from crowded shores, overnight camping 3. not spend a bundle 4. quick setup/breakdown 4. some use with overseas travel

Considered: Pakboat Puffin, Folboat, Advanced Design Dragonfly, numerous other 1 person inflatables with terrible tracking.

Purchased: West Marine version of Advanced Design's Dragonfly with air pump and carrybag. Upgrade paddle. Chose because I could try out Advanced Design product and return it if not acceptable at West Marine and REI and couldn't do so with Folboat and Pakboat.

Pros: 1. Price (~$200), 2. Compact storage and weight (40lb), 3. Comfort 4. Stability 5. Setup/breakdown speed and ease, 6. Durability.

Cons: 1. Room for 1 avg male human and 1 water bottle and small map only! 2.Tracking is possible but not easy. Rear skeg helps. Requires paddling technique attention 3. Tracking issue affects speed and energy/distance. Requires determination to stay with others in hardshell kayaks or their patience. 4. Relatively flat bow makes paddling in choppy, windy conditions challanging.

Bottom Line: Does what I want it to do for a very low price. I keep it in my car trunk for spontaneous, water adventures.

Consider: Newer design of Advanced Elements has a better shaped bow but costs more. If you have access to a Pakboat try it out and consider price.

Note: If there were a perfect boat I wouldn't own three.