Similar specs - go light
Posted by: Glenn_MacGrady
on Jan-01-13 9:13 PM (EST)
I assume you're looking at the Yellowstone tandem not the solo. I've never seen that boat, but it probably paddles very nicely. It has a bit more rocker than the Morningstar, so it may turn a bit more easily, which is more important for river paddling than open water paddling. A more turny boat requires a more refined correction stroke than a less turny boat.
The Morningstar is a popular boat for rivers and lakes, and is commonly used both solo and tandem.
They both have very similar dimensions and carrying capacity, so load carrying shouldn't be the deciding factor.
As far as I know, the YS is only available in Royalex, which is heavier than composite weaves. I am a proponent of light weight, especially for flat water places like Florida. Is the MS Royalex or composite?
Personally, I'd test paddle each one solo to see how it handles. If it was a close call, I'd always opt for a lighter composite for Florida paddling.