Rockpool Taran 18

My Kayak of choice is the Taran 18 from Rockpool. When going in a multi week kayaking expedition, there will be a lot of things that need to be carried which even though they may be used infrequently will need to be accessible when needed.

Conditions will also at times be challenging; there will be headwinds, swells, breakers, confused seas, temperature extremes, and vast distances that must be covered to reach the intended destination at a reasonable times. For this reason, the expedition kayak should have a lot of gear space, but not be slow like a barge. It should be a stable fast kayak that tracks well in rough seas, but also maneuverable. It should be light weight, but also sturdy and resistant to take a beating from the waves, hard landings and the occasional rough treatment.

These can be tough requirements to adequately full concurrently within a single boat, but I believe that the Taran does a very reasonable job.

The video below from John Willacy is a good example of what someone with good maneuverability skills can do on a Taran surfing a Tidal Race.

The video below from Surf Kayak Coaching is a very good example of what someone with good kayak surfing skills can do with a Taran.

The Youtube Videos below from Joseph Greenly do a very good job showing how to make the template for a the Redfish Kayak seat and how it is fitted into a kayak.

If you have a Taran 18, you can also give Redfish my seat measurements and they should be able to make a seat for you:

Other Features

When I ordered my Taran I requested a few additional bells and whistles which are worth noting here.