Small Kayak Ideal For Maneuverability

Q. I live on a salt water tidal marsh leading to barrier islands on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. With all this water around me, I want some kind of vessel to paddle around. Kayak vs. canoe? I’m small, it needs to be light and able to withstand salt. I want to launch from the bank in my yard right into the creek - no hauling. Any suggestions? Also, I don’t have a fortune. Thanks!

Evelyn Zak

Gear Guy: I should think a small kayak would be ideal for one person - maneuverable, easy to manage and stable. Most canoes would be awkward for a solo boater. I’d also go with a plastic or polyethylene boat for durability and resistance to salt water. One that I might suggest you consider is L.L. Bean’s Manatee. It’s a 9-foot, one-person boat designed for calm, sheltered waters. They go for $330 with an optional foot brace, which adds stability ($299 without). For a bit more, the AquaTerra Acadia Expedition ($590) is a 12-foot boat with a rear hatch and sealed compartment for storage. Either of these should give you the stability and maneuverability you need, with a high fun quotient.

Have fun!

MEMO: Send your questions directly to Interactive Gear Guy Douglas Gantenbein by e-mail at gearguy@starwave.com or check out his twice-weekly column on Outside Online at http://outside.starwave.com

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