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Name: vlad.z

Most Recent Reviews

I bought my Explorer over 10 years back, driven by storage space and portability requirements.

On both counts I had NOT been disappointed. The kayak is easy to carry around, quick to inflate, and small enough to store.

I also bought it in mind to be paddling in the ocean (must withstand the caustic effect of salt water) and being able to ride in tandem.

The quality of materials and manufacturing are superb for these boats, so even now it is in near-perfect condition. The spacing on 380, however, is quite limited, so to ride with another adult and paddle becomes difficult.

On a separate note, the boat is extremely stable both in a slightly choppy ocean condition and when fishing on lakes. Just great really!

Here are some things that I did not like off-hand (and why I gave it a 7.)

1. Hul is not sold with a rudder (at least on the older model), so the boat gets span a lot either by the wind or paddling action. It took some getting used to and was barely manageable by me until I bought Sea Eagle rudder separately.
2. I also bought an electric (Bravo) pump for the boat, which stopped working once the battery died, the battery not recharging, and I believe, I was not able to get it running even with another battery.
3. Paddling this boat is a bit awkward if you are used to sit-in kayaks, especially when using their standard low seat. Deluxe seat gives you the additional lift that make it better.
4. Carry bag, even if you manage to put the kayak back tightly, is still fairly inconvenient to carry around. Not much of an issue for me, as I got a portable folding cart to transport it on land, and trunk for car, but still, would be cool to just strap it on and go.

Overall, of course, it's a great boat for fishing, moderate riding in calm waters and family fun!