Hey everyone…now that I’ve received some great advice on what to look for in a kayak, I’m asking for help in sorting out my options. I’m looking used and need to stay under $700. Looking 14’ - 16’, front/rear bulkheads, perimeter lines. I’m in upstate NY and trying to find something within a couple hour drive. CL/EBay/FB options catching my eye are:
Tsunami 140 w/rudder: 10 yrs old, one owner, well cared for, asking $750
Looks like you’re seeing a lot of the same kayaks I’ve been looking at from Hudson River? If so you should call them up and see if you can make an appointment to try them out. Then you can look at them in person and see how they feel. Even if you don’t end up liking any of them enough to buy, that info will help you out when you find possibilities on CL or Ebay. I would personally always go and see something and – if at all possible – try it out before deciding to buy.
Also: maybe you might want to check this one out – it’s too big for me but looks like it may be a good deal. (By the way the seller got the name wrong, it’s the Cobra Expedition 17 by Aquatx.) Cheap enough so that you’d have plenty left over for a nice PFD and paddle. https://hudsonvalley.craigslist.org/spo/d/kayak/6320968873.html
Thanks for the link. I’ve seen this, and the price has dropped. One of my concerns is whether, as a relative newb, if this would be too much boat for me.
@Doggy Paddler said:…One of my concerns is whether, as a relative newb, if this would be too much boat for me.
First off it’s not THAT technical of a kayak. One you get used to it , paddling will be easier . It’s not going to accelerate too fast and go off the water on to shore. It’s not going to “flip” , too active a word. It might capsize but they’re all gentle and likely something you did or didn’t do. But you can get better and match the boat.
Thanks for the link. I’ve seen this, and the price has dropped. One of my concerns is whether, as a relative newb, if this would be too much boat for me.
Try before you buy to make sure you fit into the cockpit. As to “too much boat,” better to go with a kayak you can learn from, not get bored with in a few months.
Have you taken any lessons?
Checked that CL photo and I don’t see any rudder on that boat. Guessing the owner confuses a rudder with a skeg.
Thanks for the link. I’ve seen this, and the price has dropped. One of my concerns is whether, as a relative newb, if this would be too much boat for me.
Try before you buy to make sure you fit into the cockpit. As to “too much boat,” better to go with a kayak you can learn from, not get bored with in a few months.
Have you taken any lessons?
Checked that CL photo and I don’t see any rudder on that boat. Guessing the owner confuses a rudder with a skeg.
I did take an intro type course that was 2-3 hours long. Will definitely look to take more next year.
I’m also guessing that CL seller isn’t much of a kayaker…says he purchased new and never used and seems to not know the difference between rudder and skeg.
So, I learned today that my thighs will be a great determiner of the boats that fit me. Was able to have a look at a Romany and Elaho today (thank you for your time and knowledge, Celia!$, and four that I’m definitely in need of at least a 13" deck if not 14". This takes the Zephyr out of consideration. Sorta back to the drawing board now. I think I may check out the Tsunami that’s only about ten miles up the road from me.
@mikeholding87@gmail.com said:
You can have other options as well in this price range. Try to look for some kayak reviews
I definitely agree, but, unfortunately, buying used brings factors of cost, availability and geography into play. I’m scour CL, FB and eBay, among others, daily but am beholden to what is advertised.
