I finally found time from work and good weather to take the completed raft for a maiden voyage. Compared to my Anfibio Delta MX rafts this thing is faster to paddle on the flat water, yes it would benefit from a skeg, so that will happen in the future. The cockpit feels smaller (widthwise) than the Anfibio, but the side tubes are also bigger and give better floatation, the bow sits out of the water and cuts through with ease. The Anfibio is symmetrical front to back, so it suffers from not having a leading front design. The Anfibio is lighter at 1.8kg in stripped format, the Telkwa stripped came in at 2.3kg so the extra weight is noticed – but the extra strength and protection is worth it.
Also I am nearing completion of my first attempt at a semi removable spray deck – I’m not sure I want it on permanently, so I’m trying to install TPU waterproof zippers to 80% of the deck before I commit to installing it. Fitting Velcro would be a great option to make it 100% removable, but TPU backed velcro is impossible to locate and I’m still unsure on appropriate glue for accessories to be permanently attached. If anyone has suggestions I’m open to them.
I also need to address a crease in the overlap (reinforcing) fabric at the rear of the raft, when sealing this I got to a point where folding it to seal it was much easier, however the fabric now has a noticeable white crease mark where the black fabric has at first glance separated at the threads – it is still water and air tight.
Also my Aliexpress Packraft 2 piece semi drysuit arrived and I must say for the $100AUD I’m impressed with the quality and the fact I remained totally dry while getting in and out of the raft to launch and retrieve, it will be put to the test in more depth at a later stage.
