Touts a reverse hard chine. The info on the web is interesting, but I'd like to hear from those who may have paddled this boat.

(Hope Santa watches these threads for ideas. So far, my favorite is still the CD Cypress, but I'm open for suggestions for more boats to try...)

The reverse hard chine allows the chine to hit the water earlier when the boat is put on edge. This is the only boat out of the boreal line-up that I found was a really enjoyable boat to paddle. The tempest 170 is also a rally fun boat in that size. Awesome fit and performance.

Cool! Thanks...was beginning to wonder if anybody was following these threads.

The Ellsmere one of several that I am looking at. I've paddled the Wilderness Systems' 170. It was a fine boat, but I liked the CD Cypress better in comparison.

Going to look around to see if I can find an Ellsmere to test paddle. We have lots of water in Florida and so many different paddling opportunities. However the more I check out the different types of sea touring kayaks, the more I discover what we don't have available down here. Maybe its just the boats I'm choosing to look at...

Again, thanks for the info, Ellsmere is a very interesting boat to look at.

Deb;
When you demo the Ellesmere, try this: Get up to a good paddle speed, stop paddling and edge the boat. It will carve a diminishing radius turn as you slow, something I've not seen any other boat do. The reverse hard chine seems to be very effective.

Happi,
Have you checked NC Kayaks website? They are having one heck of a sale. You won't find a better deal, or a better boat anywhere.

Thanks! I'll try that. Gotta find one in Florida to paddle first. It is an interesting looking boat. Sounds like you have some experience with them. Is this what you paddle?

Hey Magooch! We've been down this road with my post on the CD Cypress. I'm still looking and really want to paddle a boat before I decide to purchase. I like the looks and reviews for NC boats. They also have some really cool color options. Just have to find one down here in balmy Florida to paddle.

Thanks!

Happi,
I know we've been through this, but I just thought you might be interested in the sale. I am very sympathetic with you when it comes to picking out a boat--it really pays to try them out first. However, I did buy a recreational kayak without a tryout--I read all the reviews that I could find and it turned out to be a very good purchase.

I guess I should take my own advice and buy the Expedition (19'-2" model) that they have in stock, but I'm in Nevada right now and I can;t go to Tacoma and pick it up. At $1899 it's a price that I just can't refuse, but my wife might not be so easy. Anyway, I've already got what I consider one of the best sea kayaks on the market--my fantastic CD Sirocco.

Good hunting.

Go for it! Sounds like a super deal!

Re: test paddliing before purchase. Comfort is very important to me. I feel as long as I comfortable sittiing in the boat, the rest is just a matter of adjusting to that particular boat. I have also discovered that different models from the same manufacturer do not feel the same when you sit in them.

I have not been able to locate an Ellsmere yet to try, but I'm going to continue to seek. Looks like Tom (my hubby) & I will be joining a good size group of paddlers after Christmas on the Wekiva, here in Florida. I'll be eyeing everyone's boats and asking questions.

Well, Merry Christmas! Hope Ms. Santa lets you get the Extreme.