Hello Everyone - man, it has been a loooong time! My disappearance from the P-Net forums pretty much coincided with the birth of my son, so here we are 7 years along from that and I’m starting to find the time to play once again!
Anyway - I’m seeking some advice on a purchase I’m considering. I’ve always been a kayak guys (we have way too many), but am now interested in also getting a canoe. I’ve been reading and reading and reading, but I’m also stupid impulsive and sometimes something catches my eye that, even though it may fly in the face of what is right, I end up obsessing over. So the object of my affection this time is an old Blue Hole 17’ MGA that looks to be in good shape. I know it is old, and might be getting brittle depending on where it has been stored, but based on the photos, it looks like it has been well cared for. It has aluminum gunwales. not wood, and the plastic seats look to be in good shape. I also know they are heavy, but seem to be adored by those that have owned them.
My uses would be very light rivers with only Class I type rapids, and lake paddling. I know I can get a lighter, cheaper boat, but I also like the load hauling advertised by what I’ve read. And I admit I’m a sucker for a good looking boat, and it is good looking. I actually also considered a Wenonah Adirondack in Kevlar (yeah, totally opposite ends of the weight spectrum), but some of the reviews of that make it sound like it paddles best when loaded up. I’m 6’2" and 220 lbs., if that matters. I don’t need to cartop the Blue Hole as I have a trailer…so even though the weight is a factor, it isn’t a determining factor. Also, I’m not looking to win any speed contests with this boat. I just want something I can stick me and my son or wife in, load it up with our backpacks and some gear, and go paddle a day into someplace to camp.
So this Blue Hole MGA is being offered at around $800, and I’m inclined to counter a couple hundred under that. Am I being stupid or should I really eye something newer and lighter?
Many thanks - always get great advice on these forums in years past. The new format is cool…! Nice to see some old familiar names too…
Regards,
BeachAV8R / Chris
PS - If anyone has a Radisson 14’ double-ender for sale within a couple hours of Charlotte - I’ll buy it off you in a heartbeat…LOL…that was my original plan, but there aren’t many for sale in this region and the ones that are all square ended…