The Great Auk is a roomy, fast and stable kayak and tracks very straight. The long water line and clean entry permits it to cut through the water with a barely visible wake. The flared bow gives a very dry ride, lifting over most waves with little effort. This is one of Nick Schade's more stable single sea kayaks. It is one of the easier designs to build, with a fairly simple shape. This is a good all-around boat for someone wanting a stable, efficient kayak. This boat is designed to accept a rudder but it is not required.

Beginner kayakers will find this design to be comfortable and reliable. While not a stiff tracker, it is well balanced and with a little practice novice kayakers will be able to take this boat a long way. It will not be a design you outgrow immediately. Larger paddlers will find this design roomy and capable. It can easily carry quite a substantial load so heavier paddlers will still find it usable for multi day trips.

Do you fit in this kayak?  Study our kayak fit chart.