The entire review is available as a PDF and includes sea-trial reports, stability graphs, cross-section drawing, speed/resistance figures and the response from the designer.
The Akula brings forward Mike Neckar’s series from 10 ˝ feet through 12 ˝ feet, 14 feet
and now 16 ft. It features a secure base and multichined facets that make the boat very
comfortable for both flat and edged paddling. This allows the boat to track very well and
bring excellent speed, while being easy to turn and comfortable for bracing and rolling.
The low deck makes the boat very calm in the wind with little noticeable weather helm.
The “strong rim” cockpit strengthens the boat and provides an excellent spray deck
seal. Internal storage is pronounced with accommodations in both front and rear
compartments.
Ergonomics are fully covered with the wedge-adjustable seat and height-adjustable
seat-back and optimal thigh-brace padding. The cockpit is supportive and comfortable
for multiple day travels and is built to adjust to different paddler preferences and to
facilitate functional open-water rescue.
–Delsyk Design Team
Length overall 16’ 3⁄8"
Beam 23”
Volume 13.8 cu. ft.
Cockpit size 14 5⁄8” x 32 ˝”
Cockpit coaming height:
Forward 14 5⁄8”
Aft 8 5⁄8”
Height of seat 1 1⁄8”
Weight 63 ˝ lbs.
