Does anyone have experience taking the beach through rougher conditions?
-high wind
-small rapids
-small chop/waves
I don’t anticipate taking it out into these conditions very often but I’d like it to be able to handle them. If it absolutely cannot even with floats in the bulkheads and the splash decks then maybe I need the Bay.
I’ve been looking to buy an Oru Kayak for almost a decade and I’m finally ready to pull the trigger. Key factors for me are versatility, storage space, and handling. I mostly paddle on smaller lakes, creeks, and rivers and enjoy kayak camping.
The beach seems like it would allow me to pack more equipment, certainly bulkier items, and allow quick access. The open top design might be better is the summer and allow you to adjust your position more for longer stretches of paddling.
The bay is definitely superior handling and the increased coverage would prevent splashing in rougher conditions and allow it be used in colder seasons. Storage space seems very tricky though.
Thoughts?