Kayak Noise

Kayak Noise - Artist Boat

2010-10-25T12:25:00.000-07:00

Artist boat gets kids paddling....

Team Ocean Kayak's Jeff Herman in cooperation with Necky Kayaks have donated a Necky Chatham 16 to Artist Boat. ArtistBoat.org is a unique nonprofit in Texas that has literally taken thousands of kids kayaking to learn about coastal margins and coastal eco systems. The Chatham will be raffled to help raise money for Artist Boat and is on display at the legendary Mod Coffee Shop in Galveston.

Kayak Noise - Lots going on

2010-10-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

Busy Times in R/D.....

It's that time of year we are full on with lots of new projects. We are cutting boats out on the cnc machine, making prototypes and doing test paddles. This is a great stage of development as each project is up and running and starting to take shape. Some things are working and other not so much and we have to rethink. We always have more ideas than we can actually get done. So quiet often it is about sifting through and trying to pick the best.

Each person in R/D gets to head up projects and see them through to the finish. But everyone gets to throw there opinion into the mix on every project. So no one is doing designs in a vacuum.

One of the new projects is a LV Elite. I'm trying to keep all the great parts of the Elite just in a smaller package. So it will not have as much packing space but this compact version should be really lively and fun to paddle. It has a slightly smaller fit so should be good for med to small paddlers.

Kayak Noise - Caves

2010-10-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

Paddling in Caves....

Alex Matthews Kayaks the Caves and Arches of Port Renfrew, BC from Alex Matthews on Vimeo.

Kayak Noise - The Office

2010-10-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

The Shaping Room....

This is where it all happens the shaping room. For most boats even if we cut them out on the CNC machine we still do the last bit by hand. With hand shaping you can smooth out the lines and refine the shape in a way that is difficult on the computer screen. We set up the room with adjustable lights to show up the lines of the boat. The room is painted a neutral color and sealed up to keep the dust in.

Kayak Noise_ Nootka Island

2010-09-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

Alex's Video from His trip to Nootka....

Alex Matthews - Kayaking Nootka Island 2010 from Alex Matthews on Vimeo.

Kayak Noise_ Nootka Island

2010-09-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

Kayaking Nootka Island 2010.........

Alex Matthews & Friends – Nootka Island 2010

Alex Matthews here, signing in on the ‘Kayak Noise’ blog.

Last month I had the chance to take off up the coast of Vancouver Island for a 10 day trip to Nootka island and the Nuchatlitz area, launching from the small town of Zeballos. Nick Castro of Active Sea Kayaking (http://www.activeseakayaking.ca/) was the instigator, with his partner Sandra, and their good friend Jen rounding out the gang.

I was paddling Spike’s newest sea kayak design - the Looksha Elite. I’ve logged quite a few miles in the Elite now, and it’s a cool boat that combines positively HUGE storage capacity with a very efficient hull for good speed, and tremendous maneuverability. Because the stern of the Elite has so much rocker it spins on a dime and is very fun and sporty to paddle (great down wind), but it’s quite rudder dependant in some conditions. I really like it and it’s become my “go to” boat for multi-day trips. If I was still guiding I would definitely be working out of an Elite: it’s fast, comfy, is really easy to swing around (ideal for doing a head-count when keeping track of guests behind you), and positively swallows gear! It’s also stable enough when loaded that I think you could put a client in it without worrying about them flipping.

The only downside I encountered is that when FULLY loaded, the Elite ends up weighing a ton (duh)! I wanted to see just how much I could stuff into the boat and went a little crazy. I ended up with my usual gear, plus enough food for over 2 weeks, extra water, extra clothes, and a full complement of camera gear. The kayak swallowed it all with ease but was of course really heavy. So it’s like the old backpacking adage: “be careful with a really big pack, because you will have a tendency to fill all the space available. And then you’ll have to carry it!”

At a measly 150lbs, I’m definitely small for the Elite, but it does a really good job of not feeling like a big boat. And while I am campaigning for a lower volume version, I must admit that all that cargo capacity is pretty corrupting (I’m getting old and soft, and luxury certainly has its appeal). I’m not sure that I’d be willing to give it up.

All photos by Nick Castro or Alex Matthews

Kayak Noise - On the cover

2010-08-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Paddler Magazine Cover...

The Looksha 4 on the cover of Paddler Magazine. Not sure where the photo is.

Kayak Noise- On the Cover

2010-08-19T14:47:00.000-07:00

Chatham 16 on the Cover...

The picture was taken out at Quadra Island B.C

Kayak Noise - Retail Dealer conference

2010-08-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

Dealers get to check out 2011 designs....

A couple of weeks ago we had our dealer conference. This is where the dealers get a sneak peak at our new boats for 2011. The conference was at Stone Mountain which is near Atlanta Georgia. It was ridiculously hot but everyone braved the temperature to paddle the new boats. They seemed to be well received I heard a lot of positive feedback.
One thing I love about these conferences is to get a chance to talk to dealers as they always have so many ideas of new boats and improvements to boats. I wish we had time and money to do them all. So a big thanks to all you dealers who took the opportunity to throw your ideas out there it is so interesting and appreciated. Keep it coming.

New Camden for Old Town it comes in a 12ft version and a 10ft version.

Bow of the Camden and the new Necky Vector sit on top.Below is the Vector as well.

I was there to do a short presentation on our design process and kayak design. It seemed to go OK. Well no one fell asleep or heckled. Here are a few photos from the beach. I thought I was melting!

This is Gracie testing out the new Nalu 12.5.

Our first canoe that we have done for Old Town. The Saranac is 14ft long

Serious design talk or maybe I'm making stuff up again.

Kayak Noise - On the Cover

2010-07-14T15:08:00.000-07:00

Chatham 16 on the cover of Ocean Paddler....

Thanks to Richard Parkin of Ocean Paddler Magazine (www.oceanpaddlermagazine.com) for putting the Chatham 16 on the cover.

This is Nick Castro from Active sea kayaking (www.activeseakayaking.ca) paddling up at Quadra Island B.C Canada.

Kayak Noise - Kinetic Wave Sculptures

2010-07-09T11:45:00.000-07:00

Crazy Wave Sculptures by Reuben Margolin...

Kayak Noise - Looksha Elite

2010-06-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

Alex Matthews talks about the Elite....

Kayak Noise - What's your boat made from

2010-06-17T14:08:00.000-07:00

Stitched Composites.....

Our composite boats have been well received one of the reasons for this is the materials we use. In all the Chathams and Lookshas and doubles we use a stitched fabric rather than woven fabric. Stitched fabric is fiberglass that is stitched together at 45 degrees rather than woven. When stitched material is manufactured the fibers are not damaged as much as they are when they are woven. This makes the material retain more of it's original strength and stiffness. You can see here how the 2 layers of glass fibers are laid down at 45 degrees and the horizontal lines are the stitches that hold them together. This is Soric it is the core material we use in the layup it adds a ton of stiffness without adding excess wait.Stitched fabric also comes in Carbon.

Kayak Noise - Tuxedo Road

2010-06-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

Please no autographs....

You let marketing take one photo and look what happens. Suddenly your in some swanky magazine looking like a fool. This has caused quite a chain reaction of abuse at work. So I'm fessing for all to see. I never new a SUP was a fitness accessory.

Kayak Noise - Action on the West Coast

2010-06-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

This is the Ocean....

This footage is from the last few years paddling here in B.C and down in Baja. Thanks to Justine Curgenven for some of the footage she took while we were on a quick trip down in Baja.

Kayak Noise - Looksha Elite Video

2010-06-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

All about the Looksha Elite....

Here is some info about the new Elite

Kayak Noise - Polar Paradise

2010-05-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

Tales from South Georgia......

Savage Island, Resurrection Island and the Unclaimed Coast are just a few titles given to the forboding Sub-Antarctic Island of South Georgia. An exceptionally isolated, storm thrashed island, South Georgia stands alone in the path of relentless storms and the savage winds of the Southern Ocean.
Sir Ernest Shackleton died there and is buried at the foot of one of the glorious mountain ranges. Numerous whales were slaughtered in the whaling stations that at one time thrived along the eastern coast and the land witnessed a war between Britian and Argentina. Adventureous tourists travel to this isolated paradise by ice-strengthened ships and only a handful of elite expeditioners dare to venture in this wild and often merciless polar outpost.
The changelability of South Georgia's weather beats down on the unprepared and tests those who have had previous insight to its unpredictability. If you happen to arrive on a rare day where the wind is simply a whisper, the seas calm and there are fewer animals scattered along the shores – you may gain a false sense of security. As inhospitable as it sounds, South Georgia is also one of the most extraordinarily beautiful places on the planet and lures you with the compelling stage of this Antarctic Serengeti. In amongst the storms, the fridgid climes and moody appearances South Georgia has the ability to make one believe that it is a paddlers paradise.

During the recent Australasian summer I had the fortune of embarking on a kayak journey around South Georgia alone. I was fulfilling a life-long dream as well as building awareness for the Albatross, a species on the brink of exstinction. My goal was to complete a full circumnavigation (500 nautical miles) which could take up to 5 weeks depending on weather. Unfortunately I was unable to complete the island due to incidences beyond my control which delayed my departure by 3 weeks. However 2 weeks of paddling the east coast of South Georgia Island , alone – paddling by day and camping by night, I experienced far more than I ever imagined possible.
When choosing to paddle along an exposed coast in the middle of the Southern Ocean, the next land mass over 1400km away, you require patience, sound judgement and operating 10 steps ahead with the awareness that those steps may have to change as rapidly as if dancing the Tango. Gravity driven winds known as katabatics occur along this eastern coast frequently and without warning. You can be paddling on calm seas, a 10 knot breeze blowing from the west and suddenly within minutes you could be paddling for your life. There were times when I was forced off the water by accelerating winds that could easily blow me offshore. I chose the battle in trying to make it to shore, paddling against these furious winds that are simply screaming down valleys and glaciers that lead out to the bays I was trying to paddle in to, simply to make landfall and get off the now dangerous seas.
Storms keep you beachbound for days on end which is why the history of South Georgia expeditioning is not a romantic one. A British Military team back in the mid 80's was forced to eat penguins when stranded onshore for over 2 weeks with all food- rations diminished. Elegant and proud King Penguins innocently strutting their stuff along the beaches ended up as dinner. Climbing teams have lost ALL tents as sudden winds that gather speed rapidly tear at anything that stands above the ankles. Every movement, every action, every decision has to be well thought through as you attend the South Georgia school of bad knocks.
Days on the water, when there is a moment of calm is absolute bliss. The whines and whimpers of Fur seals are heard from all directions and constantly fill the air. As you paddle ½ a mile off- shore, riding the swell, avoiding the boomers and the confused, rebounding seas, you are traveling in the realm of the Albatross. The 10ft wingspan of the Blackbrowed Albatross glide above you in absolute silence and if the wind diminishes, they are forced to land on the water. During these times you spontaneoulsy drift by their giant bodies, floating with the current, as they wait patiently for the wind to offer them freedom to fly.

Finding a safe place to land is always a challenge, you don't have just yourself to think about. You are forced to consider the needs of all the other critters that stake their claim on this land, and rightly so. The large, cumbersome Elephant seals that dominate the beach simply by their body mass, the territorial Fur seals whom are capable of being rather aggressive, particularly the teens, and the trumpeting King Penguins that strut about the beach as though they too own the place, all have the right of way. The Skuas and Southern Giant Petrels have first dibs on exposed chicks of any kind and soar so close to your head you can feel their wing draft. Oh and a beach without pounding, kayak-breaking surf is another consideration and the potential of katabatic winds which will clear any campsite you have created, even though diligently. And so the challenge of camping at times seems to outweigh the trials and tribulations of paddling such an exposed coast.
In the early evening, once tucked inside your sleeping bag, warmed by the insulation of your tent, your stomach filled with a Harvest Foodworks scrumptious dinner, the daily chores are done, one can finally find rest. Although you hear tedious groans and grunts from Elepant seals as though they are trying to out-do eachother, and the constant calling from mum to pup in the Fur seal kingdom, as well as the early morning (3am) trumpeting calls from the Kings – you can still experience the peace, calm and tranquilty of this polar paradise.

When I set out on this journey, I came with the understanding that South Geogia would dictate when and how far I would paddle. The weather, ice and wildlife would be my guide as to where I could land and establish camp. The awe-inspiring scenes of snow-capped peaks, glaciers bounding through valleys and slithering into the sea, the fear-less animals that congregate abundantly on the few accessible beaches would be my motivation and inspiration. You are not only tested physically, intellectually and emotionally in these polar parts - you are forced to live in the very present, aware of every single element, action and change that surrounds you. Otherwise it takes only a second for South Georgia to dominate and you are then no longer at the helm.
I feel priviledged to have had this opportunity of spending time with South Georgia intimately. The journey offered a personal gain however it was successful in the way that it put the Albatross in the spotlight. Bringing to the public attention the devastating and unnecessary loss of lives continues as I write a book, create a film and share my adventures and experiences through presentations. For more information please visit: www.hayleyshephard.blogspot.com and www.kayakingtosavealbatross.com. May the Albatross fly forever.

Hayley Shephard

Kayak Noise - Hayley Shephard

2010-05-20T12:48:00.000-07:00

Thank you from Hayley.......

Hayley has returned home from her trip and is preparing for a North American tour for her presentation from her trip.. I look forward to seeing more photos and hearing more about here trip.

Kayak Noise - Photos

2010-04-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

Travels....

Kayak Noise - Flat Hull sea Kayaks

2010-04-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

Introducing the ChickenHawk

We have had this baby up to 9 miles an hour. The idea is you move back on the seat as you start to surf a swell and forward again on the flat. It works well. We used a longer paddle since your sitting so much higher. This position was very comfortable and with the foot strapes you could get a very positive stroke. The bow is pretty different, I had never paddled a reverse rake bow before. It had noticeably less resistance than a regular bow untill water came over the whole thing. You can check out how the bow works on the video.

ChickenHawk - Bellignham Bay April 30, 2010 from tom swetish on Vimeo.

Kayak Noise - Flying SUP

2010-04-08T11:23:00.001-07:00

Hold on to your boats... They can fly.... 50mph Winds

50 mph day on Bellingham Bay from Great Dane on Vimeo.

Kayak Noise - Sup Speed

2010-04-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

Who say's flat hulls arn't fast.....

14' SUP... 8.2mph on flat water from Great Dane on Vimeo.

Kayak Noise - Trip Humour

2010-03-30T22:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Dave Aharonian....
These are some fun shots that Dave (see previous post on Dave and his story, click on people label) took while on a trip paddling down the west coast of Vancouver Island with Alex. Dave was kind enough to let me post his shots. Check out Dave's website at http://www.daveaharonian.com/

OK, So how did that roll thing work again?

So these are some great shots. I was meant to come up with some really funny captions. Well I did what I could but I kinda think they suck so if you can come up with a caption please post it.

Kayak Noise - Trip Humour

2010-03-30T22:25:00.000-07:00

Warning organic vapors may be harmful...

Kayak Noise - Trip Humour

2010-03-30T22:22:00.001-07:00

They said the blue warbler nested on this island somewhere....

Kayak Noise - Trip Humour

2010-03-30T22:17:00.001-07:00

Hulk Hogan on Survivor...

Kayak Noise - Flat hull Sea kayak

2010-03-26T12:52:00.000-07:00

Viper Proto....

I've surfed it a few times now. It surfs very differently than the Spyder I normally surf. But once I started to figure it out I got some unbelievable rides it goes like a freight train. I'm able to catch very small waves easily and as long as I stay high I pick up lots of speed. I haven't taken a GPS with me but on flat water the boat feels fine.

kayak Noise - Looksha Elite

2010-03-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

My new Elite has arrived....
Unwrapping my new boat it is always a great day.

kayak Noise - Flat Hull Seakayaks

2010-03-18T13:37:00.001-07:00

Viper.....

So after the experiment with the stand up board (see first posting titled Flat Hull seakayaks) I decided to make a 14ft boat with a flat bottom. As you can see it looks like a surf boat just much longer. These are pictures of the computer model. With me in it (200lbs) I have 2" of draft. Most sea kayaks have 4" to 5". I hope I can still cruise a long easily at 3/4 knots but I hope I will be able to catch swell way more easily and be much faster than a regular sea kayak. I guess we'll see. I also hope to be able to surf in to the beach with out going sideways like sea kayaks do which is pretty lame.

Kayak Noise - Chatham 16 at Skookumchuck

2010-03-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

Bryan Smith surfs the Chatham 16 at Skookumchuck.....

All the photos were taken by Gary Luhm Check out his site and more great photos at http://www.garyluhm.net/

Thanks to Gary for letting me use these photos

Kayak Noise - Birthright

2010-03-02T08:43:00.000-08:00

Inspiring Video.......

This is a Film by Sean Mullens check it out. Here is his intro

This humble film is about a friend of mine named Michael and his daily ritual to find his natural self through surfing.

BIRTHRIGHT from Sean Mullens on Vimeo.

Kayak Noise - Nick Castro Video

2010-02-26T12:34:00.000-08:00

Quadra Island Surfing......

Thanks Nick

Kayak Noise - Flat Hull Seakayaks

2010-02-24T13:17:00.001-08:00

Flat hulls on Sea Kayaks .....Why not?

Well I think most people including myself would say too much wetted surface too slow won't work. But sometimes you just gotta try stuff. So what do we know is 'slow' short, wide with a flat hull right! So we made a stand up board last summer which is 12'3" long and 30" wide with a flat surfboard style hull. Just for fun I decided to sit on it and paddle it with a kayak paddle it cruised along just fine so I decided to get the GPS out and see what it could do. I managed to sprint it to a top speed of 7.2mph (6.3 kts) which shocked me considering I was paddling something with the dimensions of a rec boat. I don't think Olympic K1's will have flat hulls any time soon but I do wonder if there is some advantages for the average sea kayaker here that we are missing. The video is of me sprinting the boat. As you can see I have no seat or foot braces.

Kayak Noise - Elite Review

2010-02-12T10:39:00.000-08:00

Adventure Kayak Magazine takes a look at the Elite......
Check out more here
http://www.adventurekayakmag.com/adventurekayakmag_fall09/

Kayak Noise - Speed

2010-02-11T15:51:00.000-08:00

World's Fastest Sup.... (According to us)

This is the brain child of Gary. I'm not sure how to describe it just watch the video. 9 mph!!!!!!
The world's fastest SUP paddler (According to us) is Beau Whitehead from Bellingham. Check out his blog http://paddlesurfnorthwest.blogspot.com/

Kayak Noise - Gary Seaman

2010-02-11T14:55:00.000-08:00

Stand Up Paddleboards.........

We have been been working on paddleboards for the last couple years and recently did the Nalu for Ocean Kayak one of the first rotomolded paddleboards on the market. It has been received really well and provides an inexpensive entry in to paddleboarding.

We have done a lot of research along the way. One of the main resources for this is Gary Seaman he is a designer and shaper in R&D. Gary's back ground is not just having shaped kayaks for many years. He grew up shaping surfboards professionally in California and then was one of the driving forces in the windsurfing revolution. Gary has such a wealth of knowledge and experince it is a real education to work with him.

This is Gary with his latest board. I have not had chance to surf it yet but all who have rave about it. One very distinctive feature is the old school 50/50 rail which makes it forgiving but still very responsive.

We are learning more and more along the way with this development that I'm sure we will start to put some of what we have learnt into kayak design.

Kayak Noise - Quadra Island

2010-02-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

Alex and crew head to Quadra.....

Alex Matthews here, reporting in on the ‘Kayak Noise’ blog.

Last weekend I headed up-island from Victoria to Quadra Island. The crew consisted of the usual suspects: my beautiful wife Rochelle, my good buddy Dave Aharonian (see the article about him in a previous post), and the inimitable Nick Castro of Active Sea Kayaking (http://www.activeseakayaking.ca/).

We loaded up with a couple of Chatham 16s, Dave’s Nordkapp, and one of the highly coveted and all too rare Looksha Elites. Our plan was to stay at the Discovery Islands Lodge (http://www.discovery-islands-lodge.com/) for 3 nights and paddle daily at Surge Narrows – a local playspot of rare scenic beauty just 20 minutes paddling from the lodge. The constricted channels and bottom geography at Surge create a couple of good play waves on a flood tide.

An awesome time was had by all – we played hard, ate like kings thanks to Rochelle, and relaxed in total rustic luxury at the lodge. If you’ve never stayed there, then you should! The owners/operators Ralph and Lannie Keller are wonderful. Check out a slide show here - http://www.flickr.com/photos/45728820@N04/sets/72157623028104976/show/

Still not convinced? Then consider this: every day after paddling, we would stoke up the sauna on the dock in front of the lodge and bake our sore muscles until we were relaxed pools of goo. A quick hot rinse in the outdoor showers, and then we could head upstairs for a mellow evening in front of the wood stove - my idea of a perfect getaway!

P.S. We ran into local paddlers Brent, Paul, and John, who shared beta on the best spots and generally welcomed us to the area. Thanks guys!

All photos By Alex Matthews or Rochelle Relyea

Kayak Noise - Cool People

2010-02-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

Dave Aharonian......

Dave is a local paddler and photographer with a inspiring and interesting story. Click on the Article below to enlarge.

http://www.adventurekayakmag.com/adventurekayakmag_fall09/

Kayak Noise - Elite Review

2010-02-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

Canoe Kayak Magazine review the looksha Elite....
Click the picture to enlarge

Kayak Noise - West Coast

2010-01-29T12:26:00.000-08:00

A few photos from the West Coast.....

Kayak Noise - Hayley Shepard

2010-01-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

How to follow Hayley's progress....

Kayak Noise - Hayley Shepard

2010-01-27T16:35:00.000-08:00

Hayley Heads to South Georgia.........

Caught up with Hayley the day before she left.

Kayak Noise - Surfing

2010-01-26T22:02:00.000-08:00

One Wave......

Got some new software I think this is better quality video?

Kayak Noise - Sketches

2010-01-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

Looksha Elite Color study.....
We were playing with color combos for the Elite. The body line makes a natural brake to change color. This adds cost to the boat but can make the boat look sharp.

Kayak Noise - Jon Bowermaster

2010-01-14T15:54:00.000-08:00

Paddling in Antarctica....
Here is some footage from Jon Bowermasters trip in Antarctica. We did some heavy lay up Nootkas and they were shipped off to Argentina and then over to King George Island. Check Jon's blog Notes from Sea Level at
www.jonbowermaster.com

Kayak Noise - Jon Turk

2009-12-17T17:05:00.000-08:00

Paddling the Vanuatu chain....

Jon Turk paddles along the Vanuatu Islands in the South Pacific in a sit on top kayak, making long crossings on the open sea. Jon finds friendship and adventure as he passes from island to island. ...

We will be paddling Ocean Kayak Prowlers, generously provided by my major sponsor, Johnson Outdoors. I believe that sit-on-tops are not only fun for warm-water recreation but also they are the best kayaks on the market for serious open ocean adventures in tropical waters. We plan to spend many days at sea and I know that I would get cramped in a cockpit boat. We will relish the stability, speed, agility and the ability to wiggle around, all offered by the Ocean Kayak Prowler.

It's amazing, we think of sit on tops as rec boats but Jon has done many serious crossing in exposed conditions. You can check out more at his site http://www.jonturk.net/

Kayak Noise - Hayley Shephard

2009-12-11T13:27:00.000-08:00

Hayley leaves for South Georgia Jan 22....

Here are some things she gets asked frequently as she prepares to leave.

1. What special equipment will you need to take to do an expedition such as this?

I have recently posted a gear list on the GEAR ROOM blog connected to this site so check that out. I basically need to be equipped with gear that can withstand the bitter cold temperatures of the Antarctic as well as hold up in severely strong winds. Basically I need to be warm and all my gear needs to be waterproof and rugged!

2. How will we be able to follow your journey's progress daily?

On my website there will be a google earth map of South Georgia and via a satelite connection through my sat phone, my route will be plotted daily. As well I will be writing a daily progress journal on my notebook computer and posting it on my blog along with the occasional audio broadcast. I will attempt to post a few images as well.

3. Will your support vessel be able to shadow you as you paddle around South Georgia?

South Georgia has very few safe, protected bays and anchorges particularly on the SW side (the crux of the expedition). It is completely exposed to open ocean swell, wind and frequent storms. There will be times where the vessel may be a days sail away from me, therefore I have to be completely self sufficient. I will be in contact with them on a daily basis receiving weather information and passing on my daily plans and intentions of travel.

4. What does your family think about you doing this expedition. Are they nervous and concerned for your safety?

My parents have always been very supportive with the previous expeditions I have done, aswell as the guiding, traveling working life I lead. They admire me for living my dreams and doing exactly what I am passionate about. However they are also concerned for my safety and occasionally express this. They know it is something I need to do in order to live my life fully and truthfully.

5. Are you not taking a huge risk in safety, attempting one of the most challenging kayaking journeys alone? What about all the people who care about you, isn't it a rather selfish act trying to fulfill this goal, putting your life at risk, even though it is for the Albatross?

This is a very interesting topic of conversation one that dates back to the very first explorers who paved the way in this fascinating world of discovery and adventure. For many it does seem like a selfish act: The very act of leaving behind loved ones on a risk taking endeavor simply to discover new lands, attempt World first ambitions, adventure into the unforgiving wilderness. There is a type of peoples who are drawn to this kind of life, just like there are those that want to invent things, those that want to draw, paint and create things. We all have different interests and are passionate about certain things or activities. I strongly believe that it is important to follow those desires, dreams and ambitions because that in it self is living your life to its full potential and simply being your true self. To not do that is risking far more.
Quote: To love is to risk not being loved in return. To hope is to risk pain. To try is to risk failure, but risk must be taken because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.”
However I also strongly believe that if you are choosing to take on a risky endeavor then make sure you have all your ducks in a row, be certain that you are completely and utterly prepared for it. Be certain that you have the skills, experience, knowledge, equipment and the intelligence to take on such a feat where you are managing the risks.

6. How will your kayak expedition around South Georgia Island help safe the Albatross?

My attempt to solo sea kayak around South Georgia is to help raise awareness for the Albatross (and other seabirds) whom are being accidentally drowned then killed by out-dated techniques used in the longline fishing industry. South Georgia Islands fishing industry has eliminated seabird by-catch by implementing new techniques that discourage birds from going after the baited hooks. My kayak journey, which is attracting alot of interest world wide, is a catalyst to inform the general public about the devastating situation of the Albatross and to encourage them to help put pressure on the International Longline fishing industry to also implement new techniques.
Through presenting a series of slide shows, writing and publishing a book and magazine articles and finally broadcasting a documentary film, this story of a solo woman kayaking alone around a treacherous island to help save the albatross will reach an international audience. There is an urgency to tell this story, as the future of the Albatross lies literally waiting in our hands.

Kayak Noise - Hammer test

2009-12-11T11:14:00.000-08:00

Would you do this to your boat....

I'm sure lots of you have seen this before but it demonstrates just how tough our composite boats are.

Kayak Noise - Friends

2009-12-07T12:22:00.000-08:00

Cool locals....

Thanks to Nick Castro for his video footage of Alex in the Elite. Check out Active Seakayaking.
http://www.activeseakayaking.ca

Also thanks to Bob for taking footage of us surfing and check out his site at BCkayaker http://www.bckayaker.com/

Kayak Noise - Deflection Test

2009-12-04T21:30:00.000-08:00

Necky Triple Seam Deflection Test.....

We tested several seam layups untill failure. The new seam came out very well in both the deflection and impact test.

Kayak Noise - Seam Test

2009-12-04T13:58:00.000-08:00

Impact testing the Necky triple seam......

Kayak Noise - November Surf

2009-12-01T23:15:00.000-08:00

Swell cleans up in between storms....

Kayak Noise - Looksha Elite

2009-12-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

Pictures of the Elite at the Beach.....

Kayaknoise - Test Drive

2009-11-30T07:37:00.000-08:00

Alex test Drives the Elite....

Kayak Noise - Looksha Elite Edging

2009-11-30T07:28:00.000-08:00

Alex Matthews Edging Necky Looksha Elite.....

Kayak Noise - Looksha Elite

2009-11-25T22:52:00.000-08:00

Alex Matthews thoughts on the Looksha Elite........

Hello Spike fans! - This is Alex Matthews checking in from Vancouver Island as guest blogger.

I’ve been lucky enough to be paddling one of the new Looksha Elites over the last month or so (1 of only 2 of this new design on the entire west coast so far, I believe), and I’m really enjoying the boat. I typically get the chance to paddle a great many different kayaks, and this one is a real stand-out for me.

Firstly: the Elite is quite fast – it’s a Swede form so the bow entry is long and smooth which makes catching even small waves easy.

Despite its speed, the Elite is pretty stable and easy to paddle, so it’s definitely not an “experts only” sort of boat (whatever that is?). But the rocker profile is pronounced, so while the Elite’s tracking is very light, it benefits an active paddler who will gladly trade tracking for great maneuverability. Translation = you need to be happy with dropping the rudder when conditions dictate. Pull the rudder up and you can carve super tight turns.

All of that rocker, speed, and very nice cross-sectional shape, translate to terrific edging response and maneuverability.

Build quality on my demo boat is really excellent (in stark contrast to some of the very poor composite kayaks that I have seen come out of Necky’s East Coast US facility). If all the boats coming from Cobra (the Thai company now building Necky’s composites) are this good, then Necky should be really stoked.

I tip the scales at a rippling 150lbs, and the Elite is a touch on the big side for me – which is fair enough and probably right on target for paddlers in the more average 180-200lbs range. Having said that, the huge cargo capacity is pretty seductive and the fit is good, generating solid contact with the thighs. As a matter of course, I’m already gently campaigning for a Low Volume version but would likely still want the current size for long trips.

The Elite is a real hoot to paddle, and a little different from so many of the other boats out there. Its speed, efficiency, and its ability to carry a huge payload, have made it my new “go to” boat for multi-day trips. But heck, I’ve been paddling it everywhere (including and especially play sessions) and having a blast. It’s a winner – Spike’s going to have a very hard time getting this particular boat back from me!

Kayak Noise - Jordan River

2009-11-25T16:39:00.000-08:00

First Winter Storms hit........

Kayak Noise - In the New York Times

2009-10-27T12:08:00.000-07:00

Method Designing........

You can always count on your freinds to keep you honest.
Thanks Alex! If you click on the picture you should be able to read it. I would argue that I definitely do belong in something black as long as it is carbon.

Kayak Noise - Sketch

2009-10-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

Race boat sketch..........

Having fun with a sketch of a decked surfski style boat. The music is a little over the top but kinda funny.

Kayak Noise- Paddling the Looksha Elite

2009-10-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hornby Island B.C.............

Paddled the Looksha Elite around Hornby Island. Sunny calm day with no wind. Didn't use the rudder in these condition which is unusual in the Elite for me. I prefer to use the rudder in this boat as I get great glide and responsiveness from the hull since it does not have a strong built in keel (speed brake). I did not race just a steady cruise and it took about 3hrs. I stopped a couple times to drink etc. I was really happy with the boat it glided along beautifully although it is a responsive boat so you need to stay active but you get so much more from a boat like this rather than a tight tracking boat and it's way more fun.

Here are a few stats

Distance 13.8knts/15.87miles/25.55km

Average speed 4.6knts/5.29miles/8.51km

Top speed 6.2knts/7.13miles/11.48km

View Hornby Island in a larger map

Kayak Noise - Photos from Baja

2009-10-17T21:12:00.001-07:00

Cruising the blue................

Kayak Noise - In Thailand

2009-10-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

Thailand Production....

I travelled to Thailand this week to visit Cobra the company that is making our composite boats. I was there to see the first production boats of 3 models the new Looksha Elite ( 17ft'r ), the Eliza and the Manitou 14. After 30 years of making composite boats these are some of the nicest I've seen.

It was only 30 -35 degrees this trip which was nice. I was checking over the lay ups and testing the first models of the line. Below you can see the pressure test being done. This makes sure that the storage compartments are air tight.

The Elite is in full production as you can see the boats in progress on the racks. It's always great to see a boat going into production after you have been working on it for a year or so.

After everything was looking good with the boats I managed to get out for a paddle on the Gulf of Thailand. Just did a paddle for a few hours down the coast but it was good to get out. The water as you might expect was incredibly warm. Possibly the warmest water I have paddled on. Warmer than Costa Rica, Malaysia, Hawaii or the Cook Islands.

Kayak Noise - Mysto Design Sketches

2009-09-22T11:35:00.000-07:00

New Mysto styling..........

Here is the final sketch of the Mysto and a couple pictures of the finished boat.

Design Sketches

2009-09-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

These are sketches done while we were developing the Old Town Vapor rec boat. The first one was the favorite design out of about 30 concepts. The project name was the rush that's why you see it on the side.

These are sketches working out the details like deck lines, bungees and the tankwell area. Doing visuals really helps everyone understand where the design is going.

Chatham 16 Airsled

2009-09-10T15:52:00.000-07:00

Great air time. You can hear how hard the boat hits on landing. Looks like great fun.

Groovey Surf Boat

2009-09-08T17:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the Groovy. This is one I later put fins in you can see the fin boxes in the hull.

Finless at the Lane

2009-09-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

The video below is of me surfing at Steamers lane, Santa Cruz, Ca. I'm paddling a Groovy. A boat that I shaped with a surf board shaper in California about 10 years ago. I learned a lot working with him. Board shapers that I've meet over the years have been some of the most interesting people I've ever meet. The boat here has no fins you can see how loose it is. Easy for spins but loses a lot of speed in the turns. I can't imagine not using fins now you get so much more drive. The picture above is of a Spyder with fins in. You can see how much more speed is generated.

Finless at the Lane

2009-09-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Bill

2009-09-01T16:36:00.000-07:00

This is John Regan out in New Hampshire when hurricane Bill hit. He's paddling in a Spyder surf kayak. Thanks for the photos John.

Ripped and Cut

2009-08-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

More from the early days when boats carved. This time slowed down

Early Days of flat Hulls

2009-08-21T17:10:00.000-07:00

This is some early footage from the Rip and Jive era. I love this footage as you can really see the edges of the hulls carving and pushing a lot of water around. This is something modern play boats don't do as well. The white boat in the movie is a Groovy surf boat which was super fun out there. Skookumchuck and surfing on the ocean were my inspiration to do the flat hulls. We just got to use the waters energy to get speed. Next we gotta start doing that for touring, ocean swells have a lot of energy. The other guys in the movie are my good friends Mike Druce who made the movie and is now Head Slalom Coach in Australia and Keith Klapstein who can paddle anything any time whether it is class five , surf, national slalom team, canoe trips oh yes he also paddled 900 miles around the Queen Charlotte Islands.

Gotta Vote

2009-08-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Ok people, We gotta solve the age old question Rudder or Skeg. Do I design my next boat with a rudder or skeg? I want to know what you think. This could be the definitive survey so lets vote. This is a kayak democracy.

Surfing in the Chatham 16

2009-08-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

The 16 is a fun boat to surf. Did this many times over so much fun and gotta lot of water up the nose.

17 ft'er Prototype 2

2009-08-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

The new 17 ft'er has been moving along. Here are a few pictures of the model I will post more on the changes we made in the next few days. The lastest changes have made the boat really interesting we've been trying to keep the great glide of the first proto and get a better lean turn which seems to be working.

Nootka's in Antarctica

2009-08-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos from Jon Bowermasters trip in Antarctica. He used Nootka tandems from Necky. You can check out many of his kayak trips on the link below. We did this boat over ten years ago but it still seems to work well for serious trips. It has a great compromise of speed, capacity and stability. It also works great on family weekend trips with kids and way more gear than you really need. Which is how I seem to use it mostly these days.

http://www.jonbowermaster.com/oceans8/index.html

Hayley Shephard, South Georgia

2009-07-09T14:10:00.000-07:00

Hayley originally from N.Z now living on Vancouver Island is attempting a circumnavigation of South Georgia Island. She is heading out in early 2010 and has chosen a Necky Looksha 4 to do it in. I believe she will be the first person to solo around the island. You can check out her website and blog with the links below. She is raising money to save the Albatross as they are rapidly disappearing because of long line fishing.

http://www.kayakingtosavealbatross.com/
http://hayleyshephard.blogspot.com/

"South Georgia - an exceptionally isolated, storm torn island, stands ultimately alone in the middle of the Southern Ocean, its nearest neighbor 1400km away. Treacherous seas constantly batter the coastal rocks and ridges, and fearless animals generously congregate on the few accessible beaches, taking shelter from the savage winds. As hostile, as dangerous, and as foreboding as it feels, South Georgia's charm, it's dramatic and ruggedly stunning beauty, has a power that I will be forever drawn to. And I shall not rest until I have seen the intimacy of it all."
- Hayley Shephard

Rail Grab

2009-07-02T13:51:00.000-07:00

Which one of these is not like the others?

Loreto to La Paz, Baja Mexico

2009-06-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

This is from a trip we did in 2008 going from La Paz to Loreto in Baja Mexico. It was a pretty plush trip with a support boat and great food we were living the good life for sure. We took a whole range of boats Manitous, lookshas, Elizas and Chathams. The paddlers ranged in experience from novice to advanced. We cruised along at between 2.5knots to 3.5knots when we had a little wind with us. It was interesting that at the beginning of the trip the longer boats were the favorites. As the trip went on it was obvious the shorter boats could keep up no problem they became the go to boats as they were a lot of fun to explore the coast line with. It was great for me from a design stand point to be able to have all these boats on the same trip and be able to switch out so easily. I find I learn the most about boats when I get to jump back and forth from design to design. You really get to feel the subtleties of each one. I’m sure many of you have done this trip as it is a classic but if you haven’t it is well worth it and if you want someone to take you Sea Trek do a great job. We had a writer from Mens Journal with us (I include the link to the article). We weren’t quite sure how that would work out at first but he turned out to be a cool person and a very accomplished waterman. He picked up paddling like a pro and we had him riding swell in no time. In the evening we had fun doing rolling classes and got several people rolling. Hope you like the pictures and once again thanks to Jock Bradley.

http://www.mensjournal.com/wild-shores-of-baja

Temp Mold

2009-06-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

For speed we seal the foam and build a mold. From that we can make the boat. We have the process down to only a few days to get from model to prototype.

New boats for Ocean and Necky

2009-06-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Your chance to laugh at R/D guys trying to speak

Ocean Kayak Torque
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PNU2fhJFJ8

Ocean Kayak Nalu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YgT4RACefw

Necky Kayaks Rip
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKzyOILGx_E

Carlisle Taboo paddle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nB9-t0-pZPU

(ACS) Active Comfort System Seat featured on select Old Town and Necky kayaks
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcxOvDYvtxc

CNC Cut Plug

2009-06-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

After the plug comes of the machine we still do some hand work to get the details and adjustments that you just can't see on a computer screen (Even with a big screen). It is just fine tuning but it makes a big difference.

2009-06-23T13:14:00.001-07:00

Who says sit on tops arn't fast.

Photo Jock Bradley

Stability Curves

2009-06-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

It does not mean much with nothing to compare to but I'll add in more as we go.

Next step

2009-06-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

So once the model is looking ok we start to make a proto. I have stability curves on it so we have a record to compare to later protos. At this stage we don’t put in any details like RDF’s etc as we just want to get the hull and the fit right. So next we will cut the model out on the CNC machine and make a temporary mold.

Water line cross section and Draft

2009-06-22T16:02:00.000-07:00

Draft at 250lbs

Typical entry/exit. Has dips in bow/stern

New 17ft'er waterline with 200lbs person in it. Bow entry looks clean stern still has a little dip

Cross Sections

2009-06-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

Vertical cross section 14" from the bow.

The full entry not only gives lots of volume for a dry ride but provides a smooth entry with little bow wave. I will cut the model at waterline to have a look at the entry.

Hull cross section at the paddlers hip. Reasonable amount of V and full chine. Hopefully will give us great glide and a responsive lean turn.

More Details

2009-06-22T13:27:00.001-07:00

New 17ft'er Model for first Proto

2009-06-22T13:23:00.000-07:00

Couple pictures from the west coast

2009-06-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

Photos by Jock Bradley

New 17ft'er

2009-06-15T22:35:00.000-07:00

We have been working on a new 17ft’er. It will be composite only at this point. We want this boat to be a great trip/expedition boat. I will try to walk you through the stages of development.

These are some of the things we looked at for the first prototype.

Efficient for a long paddle

Glide on flat water

Controllable in rough water and wind
Want to see if we can increase the swell riding potential. May as well use that energy especially on a long paddle
Long waterline for potential speed
Decent amount of rocker for responsiveness

Stable enough for when it gets nasty or your getting tired
Would like to keep the boat 22 or under so you can still have an efficient paddle style. So will most likely put a fairly full chine on the hull

Lots of storage for self supported trips
Maximize storage but still has to be good in the wind and not feel like a bath tub

Comfortable fit but still with great contact for better control
This is going to be a boat that can be paddled in all conditions so a good interface with the paddler is vital

This will be a ruddered boat
Standard Necky rudder, would like to have toe control rather than sliding foot braces

Two large hatches (and bulkheads)
Standard Necky cross lock system. Large opening with quick and easy access with one large buckle. Works even if your hands are cold.