Finally, after many delays I managed to take my new inflatable kayak Innova Safari out for a paddle. A good place to put-in is Vanier Park by the Coast Guard station and the entrance of False Creek in Vancouver.
Putting together the boat was a real snap. The red hull is first unrolled on the ground; then the skeg is mounted under the stern; after the seat and footrest are to be inflated first, then the bottom chamber and sides last. All this is done with a foot pump. Getting myself ready with all the proper paddling clothes, etc. - one needs to be dressed for immersion around here - took longer than preparing the kayak.
These photos of the Safari being assembled were taken during a paddle at a later date. This explains the different scenery.
But first, an introductory photo
These photos of the Safari being assembled were taken during a paddle at a later date. This explains the different scenery.
The rig.
Out of the bag.
The seat and footrest are inflated first. The bottom next; then the two sides.
Finally ready.
Carrying the boat to the water is really easy. It weighs just little over 10kg.
Getting into the kayak... no problem. Oops, wide angle lens shot.
So far, so good. This kayak is so small at 10' LOA compared to the Wisper!
Stability for now feels similar to my FC Wisper. It tends to weathercock a bit with each paddle stroke. I'm sure that with practice I'll learn to compensate for it. Boat speed isn't bad either, not as fast as the Wisper though.
It's nice to be in an open boat. No cramped feeling.
This is really fun. Look mom, paddling with my eyes closed!!
The Safari "turns on a dine". Notice the wake.
Then off towards Vancouver's skyline. BTW, that's the first blue sky in weeks.
A view of the cockpit. The footrest needs to come closer.
All together I paddled around False Creek for about an hour. The Safari is really fun; stability is comparable to the Wisper but even with the skeg weathercocking is noticeable. Like anything new, it will take a bit of getting used to.
Overall the Safari is a pleasure to paddle. My leg still tried to fall asleep, but being an open boat I was able to stretch and hang the leg out for a while to get the circulation going. This isn't possible on the Wisper.
For a first paddle I was really impressed with the little Safari. Next outing I will start practicing self-rescues. They say there's no need for a paddle float. One just straddles the kayak and climb back on board. We'll see... I'll bring it just in case it's needed.
This is fun...urban kayaking in Vancouver. I love shots of urban kayaking!
ReplyDeleteHey, I think I know you! We met at the inflatable/folding rally last year. I had the Helios! Great start to your blog, hope to see you and the safari (and a sunny too?) out on the water sometime!
ReplyDeleteYea, I remember. I have been following your blog too. We should get together for a paddle sometime. It would be fun to put together an inflatable/folding kayak group - the Meetup has gone mainstream I see.
ReplyDeletePaddling the Safari is a real pleasure. Last night I practiced re-entries at Jericho. It was fun and as far as I can see there's no need of a paddlefoat either.
An inflatable/folding group would be a good idea. Now that the group is a bit rudderless (with the leader off in the UK) I am planning to create a few "portable" kayaking trips over the summer...
ReplyDeleteKeep me posted. This summer I'm just into day trips though.
ReplyDeleteAnd if you are into forming a meetup group we could share it.
hi, I own a safari too, I only used it in ocean surf once up to now. It is winter in my country so waiting for spring to arrive and try it at lakes or rivers, but I am worried about self rescue because I read it is nearly imposible to re-enter the Safari. So if you succeed with the self rescue try, please post a blog explaining the technique used and if a paddle float was needed. Thanks and keep posting your trips.
ReplyDeleteNot true. Self rescue with a Safari is really easy. There's also no need for a paddle float neither.
ReplyDelete- get on the side of your upturned kayak and extend your arms over the side
- give a good kick with your legs as if you were swimming
- then pull yourself up until your chest, and PFD, rests on top of kayak's side closest to you
- swing your forward leg (the one closest to the bow) over the side and into the cockpit
- pull the rest of you up and into the cockpit
- then keep yourself low and in the centre of the boat, swing around and sit.
This is a whole lot easier done than said.
Start by practicing self rescues in shallow water, then work your way into deeper waster. It's really fun and it will give you more confidence with your Safari.
Nice post, its really knowledgebale and valuable, this post helps me alot thanks for sharing with us.
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