Newbie (Tasman Express)

Hi there all, I'm a newbie kayaker who is thinking seriously about purchasing a kayak in the next month. I'm looking at a Tasman Express (by Quality Kayaks in New Zealand) and would appreciate any reviews/thoughts or information on these kayaks. I really like the idea of a day hatch, I'm almost certain that I'd rather have a plastic kayak and I'd like a rudder. Enough storage space for a an overnight or 2-3 day camping trip would be great too. Initially plan to paddle in Sydney Harbour and the surrounding waterways but with a view to more challenging paddling outside the heads and down the coast in the future. As a new comer - what sort of things should I look out for when buying a kayak ?

Any help or views most appreciated,

Cheers

I recently brought a Tasman Express and have found it to be excellent. Although I have been paddling for many years, mainly white water and in the surf, this is my first seakayak. I also went for the plastic boat mainly for durabillity. I know glass boats are lighter in weight, but as I am 6ft4 and 115kg any boat I'm in will be heavy. Everything on the Tasman seems to be well thought out and works well. There is plenty of storage space and the day hatch is great for things you need to get to all the time. The rudder works well and the seat is extremely comfortable....great for long trips. I have only paddled in Moreten Bay (Brisbane) so far, and have had no problems. So far it has handled all conditions from flat to short sharp chop. I am looking forward to getting into some rough stuff. Other paddlers have also said it looks really good on the water. Although it's my first seakayak I couldn't be happier with my Tassie Express.

Would love to paddle on Sydney Harbour some day, came through the heads on a cruise boat recently and thought what a great place to paddle

Hope this has been of some help.

Gav C

Regarding your plans for a Tasman Express :-

I purchased the 'light' version in November from Ocean Planet at the Spit (lower floor of the big green building - the Club).

This is my 3rd kayak. I have paddled a variety of craft over the last few years.

What to look for? In my opinion; you have found it!!

If you are planning to do some longer journeys, lower body comfort levels should be high on the list along with the stowage. The cockpit size of the Express is generous when compared to other kayaks. I'm 185cm and have plenty of room for my legs and my feet are not restricted for space at the rudder pedals. The seat is the most comfortable I have tried.

Winds typically push a kayak around a bit, and I was most impressed with the Express in some 25-30knot gusty conditions.

I would recommend you hire/borrow a number of different kayaks before selecting one to purchase. There is an amazing difference in the handling of different craft.