Basic info
Me: Intermediate+ 88kg seakayaker (retired white water kayaker)
Kayak: Millennium fibreglass in red/white, 505cms, 21kg
This kayak seems to be called the Millennium here in Europe, and as mentioned before, it is basically a fibreglass seayak. However, having paddled both (I own a Millennium, and often use the club seayak) there are differences.
Good points
Weight : The Millennium is lighter than the seayak, and therefore accelerates better, and is easier to carry about.
Stability : Both primary and secondary are good. I am not quite sure which level Prijon are aiming this kayak at, but I would say it is an intermediate boat. The stability would be ok for a beginner (slightly less than the seayak), but there are days that I would like a tippier boat
Rudder : The pedal system is the same as all other Prijons I have tried, and it is a great design, with solid mounts, so you can brace against them in heavy seas and when rolling without worrying (I have had others pop off when I needed them..)
Day hatch : I like these; although on this kayak it is really is nothing more than a bag hanging into the rear hatch, it is useful for small stuff, and for emptying water out of the rear compartment (see hatch comments).
Seat : For me the design works well, although the back support is a little short
Cockpit : The cockpit is large, so larger friends have found it a good fit, I am wondering about adding some padding.
Looks : I think it looks great, with a classic upturn to the prow, and sleek lines.
Bad points
Front volume : The prow seems to be a little lacking in volume, so it knifes into the waves in heavier seas, and they break over the front hatch. However this may be partly my weight, and the seat position. I have just moved the seat back about 5cms, so we will see if this helps. As it is I would not like to load the front compartment much. On the plus side, the low prow reduces the windage.
Rudder : This boat really needs a rudder, although it is manageable without, it weathercocks quite strongly, and it tracks more than the seayak, so it can't be turned with the paddle so easily
Hatches : They work better than I expected, but they do let in some water when I'm out practicing rolling. The straps on the front hatch tend to catch waves and create spray which blows back when in heavier seas. On the plus side, the hatch openings are large, so getting tents/pots etc in is really easy.
Deck fittings : The ones that are there are ok, although the rear carrying handle ends up under the rudder if you fit one ! I added more fittings behind the cockpit so I could add the bungee cord required to hold the paddle for a float-assisted re-entry. The front net/cords are not strong enough for this.
Summary: I am very happy with this kayak, although I can see me getting another in a year or two. Perhaps sooner, as my girlfriend is very keen on borrowing it! It's not perfect, but for the price it is a very good deal, ideal for a medium weight beginner/intermediate.
