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> Im all set to start an 18'X22" sea kayak [West River180]. The hull
> tho isnt your typical single chine [per side] hull tho, and infact has 3
> chines [per side]. Apparently, according to the designer, there is a trade
> on handeling characteristics for better efficiency - 3% less wetted
> surface area resulting in 1 to 2% less resisitence. Anyone have any
> experience with this kind of hull. I understand turns require more lean
> and such.
> Pete
With the West River 180, the hard-chine/multi-chine issue is pretty moot. The 180 has such a long waterline that turning it is supposedly (I haven't paddled it) more difficult than most kayaks. On the plus side, it supposedly tracks like it's on rails, and the more gentle entry and exit through the water will lead to better efficiency.
And with respect to wetted surface area, if the waterline is increased, surface area is increased, therefore you've negated some of the effects of going multi-chine.
Dean
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Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
