12 may 2013
Wind: west 5bft, following some days with storm SW
Paddling in surf is, to my opinion, the final proof of a kayaktest because mostly this is the heaviest part of the test. It gives in relative safe-conditions, close to the coast, a feeling how capable a kayak is.
Well, after having paddled the Pilgrim Expedition in 7 sessions before this one, it did not surprise me that I felt completely at home in surf with this kayak.
The stability is very good and, also important, the kayak reacts very natural and predictable on waves: nu unexpected movements or whatsoever that could you make feel uncertain.
To catch a wave you must paddle hard as the kayak is not a sprinter, but when the waves are strong enough this is no problem. Once surfing the Pilgrim goes fast and is reasonably under control. While surfing the kayak responds to edging.
Being caught by a dumping wave and being tossed around "feels natural" in this kayak; I was always an integral part of the boat on these moments. Partly responsible for this is the cockpit-design and the snug fit with excellent grip for knees, hips and feet.
High braces are no problem to perform.
The kayak glides nicely over waves and is only pushed backwards by the heaviest of dumping waves.
The maneuverability is perfect for use under these conditions. Whitewater kayaks are more maneuverable of course, but for a seakayak the Pilgrim is perfect on this aspect.
While surfing a steep wave the Pilgrim does not pearl/ cq. bow diving. I was not surprised here because the bow has enough volume to prevent that. Personally I don't like a pearling kayak for the chance of damaging myself while being smashed forwards. Other paddlers like it for the spectacle, so those paddlers will have to choose another kayak.
To get an impression of the conditions of the day and the behavior of the kayak you can view the 3,5 minute film underneath with shots of the day:
Other remarks:
The compartments are still bone-dry after paddling.
In the first sessions with this kayak I had some remarks on the fact that the kayak has no backband to support your back. In the beginning my lower back was tired after a tour.
But now I appreciate this seat-construction much more because it gives you quite a lot freedom of movement in the seat without hurting your backbone on the cockpit-rim.
The only condition is that your lower-back-muscles must be in shape. Something that is recommended for normal life as well.
Today I realized also something about the cockpit-size: For my length 1,80m it is not possible to sit down in the cockpit putting in both legs/feet afterwards. For persons of approx. 1,75m this seems possible. Not that it is a problem for me; while lifting myself a bit out the seat I can squeeze in my second leg.
Summarizing this last session: The Pilgrim Expedition is a reliable seakayak.
Soon I will write a summary about the Pilgrim Expedition.