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First the good. The Sojourn is very maneuverable and stable. Last year, I was hit by a wave on its side which knocked my water bottle from the bungee and left my spare paddle dangling. The Sojourn couldn’t have felt more stable. However, all the bad things you’ve read about its tracking are true. I paddled a bay with glass-smooth water and no wind. I still had to make quite a few corrective strokes. It’s also very slow. I couldn’t even keep up with a rec kayak that was 2 feet shorter while paddling a bay. I’m not a speedster; I kayak to explore. However, it’s very frustrating not being able to keep up with fellow paddlers. So yes, I’m very disappointed and plan on replacing it. I just don’t enjoy kayaking as much as I did because of it. Its liabilities far outweigh its assets, for me at least.

It's decent. Very maneuverable and stable. Slow, but I was mostly used to day touring kayaks so I had to readjust my expectations. Fast enough for puttering in small lakes when you just want to get out and relax. I didn't like the removable seat. It's definitely comfortable but I don't like the extra height. I felt like I was sitting on the kayak rather than in it. I replaced it with an Airestream seat and am much happier. I'm not deducting points for that as that's a personal preference. I'm not too fond of the oversized Sport cockpit either. There are occasions where I'd like to brace my knees on the cockpit, but that's hard when it's so darned wide. So overall, a good kayak but not one that will wow you. I know that Hurricane will be replacing it next year.

I've had this boat for a couple of years now, but after last week, I now feel inspired to write. What was it about last week's paddle? It was in a large bay in NJ (Barnegat Bay, specifically Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Management Area). We went early because forecasts called for calm conditions, but the water wound up being bouncy and confused. It took me a bit of time to gain confidence, but the Tampico handled great (just keep those hips loose). No problems keeping up with the leader in his 2.5 foot longer, 1.5 inch narrower boat. I'm finally getting the hang of edging, which definitely helps with the turning.
And of course, thermoform is famously lightweight. And beautiful.

One thing I'd like to see in the L is thighbraces (the S has them, along with a backband instead of a more comfort oriented seat of the L. No complaints there; I like the seat). I added some paddling which were generously sent to me by Hurricane, along with some bungees because mine snapped when someone trip to pull me from an obstruction. Also, the common complaint that the material feels somewhat flexy is true, but I have no idea if this affects paddling performance.

All I can say is that I'm happy with this boat, and can't wait to take it out in similar conditions.

Just bought this a few weeks ago, along with a Tracer, to replace my Necky Manitou 14. I decided that it was time to get out of a transitional, good for a variety of conditions boat and go for 2 boats tailor made for more specific conditions. First the Santee, because I've paddled it more.

It took me a bit of time to get used to the roominess of the cockpit coming from the Manitou. But this is more of a rec boat, but not in the beginner boat sense. Feels at least as fast as the longer Manitou but more maneuverable. Also feels easier to lean. In fact, it felt somewhat tippy until I readjusted my foot pegs. Also has front and rear bulkheads. You must check out the Mango color. In the sunlight, you see streaks of yellow (my friends yellow Tampico streaks green in sunlight).

Fast, maneuverable, light, what more could I ask? I'll give my impressions of the Tracer after I've paddled it some more (so far, so good though).
I'm loving my new Santee!