Submitted: 01-09-2009 by oregonpaddler 
Interesting boat, this Pacifica. I have the 12 foot model, bought from a dealer going out of business, paid $400, a $200 discount. Unfortunately, I can't get my money back.
Problem #1: This kayak will not track no matter what I try. Two other paddlers, one advanced, the other a novice, borrowed this kayak and experienced the same problem. Difficult to track while paddling and the instant you stop, the kayak veers sharply to the left.
Problem #2: The boat has a drop-down skeg, but it sticks in it's channel. It has to be pushed down by hand and the difference in tracking when it is down is not worth mentioning.
Problem #3: Due to the hull shape, this boat is a snowplow. There is no grace, finesse, or efficiency in the design of the bow. Granted, this is not a high-end boat. It is marketed as a recreational kayak, but it is very, very over priced. For a lot less money, an Old Town Voyager or WS Pamlico performs much better. Big edge to the Old Town.
Bottom line is this: If you want a kayak as an extra to loan out to friends, if you drink a lot of beer while you're paddling and don't know what a straight line is, if you can find one used for under $200, then this may be what you want. Offer $150. If the seller won't take it, then walk. This is one crappy kayak. |