I have a Current Designs Whistler that is 14’ 6" long. I know its main purpose is for more calm waters but I was wondering what is the limit in terms of whitewater kayaking with this boat. I’m thinking a class 2 or maybe a lower end class 3 but I’m not sure.
Not a real good idea.
Class III whitewater requires being able to maneuver and a 15’ seakayak is not made to do the job. Also whitewater kayaks are reinforced so they will not collapse easily if pinned by the current against a rock. The same is not true of a seakayak. People certainly play in seakayaks in deep water features on rivers and tide races that are rated as class II-III but if you are thinking a rocky stream I would pass on the idea.
Don’t know that boat,
but I think class Ii is the upper limit for my 14.5’ kayak – have run easy class II and that wasn’t bad. It’s not ideal when you’ve got to avoid strainers and manuever quickly.
jim
Here you go:
[http://thumb10.webshots.net/t/63/63/5/71/3/502557103dxLaCP_th.jpg](http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/502557073yDASjZ)
It’s a tupperware 17 foot Eclipse, just entering a class III, on the Dan River in the Keebler Valley race.
I have to admit, I said a lot of “oh sh–ts” before the race was over, but never did swim.
Cheers,
jackL
For 250 bucks you could buy a decent
WW kayak that will be funner and more appropriate for the river.
Dogmaticus
depends on what type
– Last Updated: Jul-09-08 4:35 PM EST –
of cl.2-3. Big water maybe, but forget the tight technical stuff. Follow dogs and darts advice, get a ww boat, and enjoy that frothy stuff, learn to play, and join us ww junkies. Big difference between existing in a rapid and playing with it.