I want to spend 1.5k+

[AlanRyan]

Hi Brian - thanks for that - I'll see if I can schedule a trip south and drop in to paddle that boat.

Thanks,
Al

Hi Alan,

It really depends in what type of kayaking and distence you want to cover.
If your looking for a glass boat with a budget of around €1500 I'd defenitely look at the seabird range of boats.
Cieran has a demo boat at Bantry Bay Canoes. Give him a shout for a test drive.
I've never driven one myself, but just looking at it you'd know it handles well. Classic rocker with not too much V chine. Should be good and stable while at the same time pushing your skill level.

Here is link to boat at Bantry Bay !

http://www.bantry-bay-canoes.com/sea-ka ... -scott.htm

Best of luck with it.

Mac

[AlanRyan]

Thanks Chris - I've heard a bit about these alright. Kind of torn between the practicality of a PE and the grace of a glass/composite/kevlar boat... looking at the underside of my Easky after I was done with it makes me think it's a PE I need....

Al

If its a plastic yer after, the Perception Essence is well worth a look, outfitting is second to none and it handles well

Cheers,
Chris

[Chancer]

Don't forget Tiderace kayaks in your list of tryouts. Three of the ECSKC leaders have chosen Tiderace kayaks. Having paddled my Tiderace Xcape since 2011 I can recommend it. Check out the recommended weight for the boat you are considering. Having owned eight seakayaks I can say I never had a bad one and would be hard pressed to pick the best one of them though the Tiderace would be up there. There is one for sale in Belfast at around €1900 which is a good price.