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After extensive reading on Paddling.com and elsewhere I purchased the Cobra Tourer as my first kayak. I live in Baja on the Sea of Cortez, and my primary selection criteria were:

1) Sit on top configuration, for ease of spearfishing at anchor. 2) Suitable for touring in Sea of Cortez for unsupported trips up to 7 days. 3) Desired specs: Boat weight <= 50#, 400+ pounds load capacity, beam appx 26", length 14'-16' 4) Used price under $600

I have used the kayak for 2 trips now, and a considerable number of day paddles. It is a very good boat on paper and meets all of my specs. On the water it's perfect for day trips and spearfishing but I'm looking again for a better touring solution.

PROS: The manufacturer has been very responsive to my questions, a huge +. The boat meets all of my selection specs. Strong and very well made, best polypro material available. It is EXCELLENT as a spearfishing platform... easy and stable to enter and exit, a large open-well to load large fish, huge and easy storage for gear, perfect setup for a fish bag.

CONS: It is difficult for me to purchase parts (Mfr in New Zealand, I am in Mexico). The boat I purchased (well used for $300 US) does not have a rudder, but it really needs one as it is tough to steer with paddle alone, especially in open water and windy conditions... new self-installed Cobra rudder is $350 which is more than I paid for the boat. The boat is rated for 450# load, but sits very low in the water with only 335# (includes me at 230#)... max 300# load is my recommendation. BIG ISSUE: The boat leaks badly in spite of complete leak inspections, waterproofing and replacement of hatch seals... the problem is the 8" round hatch on the floor of the cockpit... in rougher water it is constantly submerged so I take on as much as 2-3 gallons per hour to the interior... I spite of my efforts, I have not been able to remedy this leak... not safe, and my camping gear is soaking is salt water.

SUMMARY: I would give 5 stars if not for the leaking hatch. This boat is fine for calm water paddling and would be great with a rudder. It is ideal for spearfishing, maybe the best solution available. At the price I paid it is a very good value. I think the steering issue can be addressed reasonably with a good kick up skeg. The leaking issue has been noted in other reviews on the Cobra Tourer, so apparently is a common problem... this renders the boat unsafe for the kind of use I require.