I just purchased a gently used Necky Eliza to replace my Tsunami 135. Both kayaks are discontinued but have dimensions suitable to a small framed adult. ( 5'4" 120 lbs ) As my Tsunami is 12 years old, I thought getting a newer model would be an upgrade, especially since the Eliza was in new condition. I was disappointed to find the craftsmanship of the Necky is quite inferior to the fit and finish of the Wilderness System Tsunami 135, model year 2008. The inside edges of the cockpit and hatch coaming are rough and sharp on the Necky. The seat is much more comfortable in the Tsunami and the rigging attachments and cordage are much more substantial with better configuration. Even though the Eliza is 15'3", and the Tsunami 13'6", the Tsunami can store more volume for multiday trips. The Necky's hatch openings are very small and the inset lids take away valuable cargo space. I'd be willing to sacrifice volume if the trade-off was a more nimble, responsive craft in terms of handling. However, the Tsunami is the hands down winner in this category as well. It's hard multi-chined hull tracks like lightning through the water. It has excellent secondary stability that makes carving a turn so much fun. My search continues to find a durable composite Kayak that can stand up to multi-day river trips and still fit me like a glove...
