Yesterday when I finished paddling and returned to the launch site, a fellow came over to me and asked where I had rented my boat. I told him I didn't rent it and that it was mine. He wanted to know where he could get one and how much it cost. After I explained a little about the boat and that they were only available from the manufacturer at a price that he just didn't seem to be able to comprehend, he asked me if I would take his girlfriend for a ride. This is a solo sea kayak. I have no idea where he thought his girlfriend was going to sit.

He then indicated that he would like to borrow it, so his friend could take a spin in it. I was polite, but I made it clear that there was no way in hell that was ever going to happen.

Should have gave her a demo with the boat on the grass first. Then he could have seen where she would have to sit.

Ask him where he see's rental sign on you boat?

Then tell him google kayak rental and get lost.

sorry I am having a bad day!

Very often people come up to me and inquire about my kayak and I offer them the opportunity to take it for a quick paddle. This is on lakes that are relatively safe conditions(sheltered) etc.
I would not allow anyone to try my kayak if they had to launch through the surf.
I would never let someone borrow my kayak so a friend could try it out.
The person who wanted to try it would have to be standing right there so I can eye them up and down and assess whether they are competent to use it. I am not letting someone carry off my kayak so someone I have not met could try it.
If I like the person they can paddle my kayak. If I don't like them or think they are a kook I will flat out tell them I am not going to let them try it.
I don't need to make up excuses.

One should remember the state of modern society and how the tendency is to sue at the drop of a hat. Even if my prime concern weren't for my kayak, the thought of someone injuring themselves, or worse while giving my boat a spin is enough reason to pass on that.

I guess it's a good thing that some of the better kayak stores allow people to try out their boats. I assume they carry liability insurance; it's a part of doing business. I've wittnessed what happens to demo boats and I'm embarassed to say that I once got tipped a little just trying to get into a sea kayak.

The dealer I go to makes you sign a waiver. No clue what is says they would probably drop if I ask for a copy to read at home. I see what goes out in their boats and if it was me renting I would be terrified. I saw two parents and a 2 year old get in the boat and the water was 55* at best few weeks ago. How long would that kid last in the water? The parents were definitely not skilled at the sport where they could get the kid in the boat first. If someone had skills and I knew them they could try my boat with me watching and nearby.