My new sea kayak - P&H Capella 166 RM

Home with the boat on the car

With an arthritic knee that has me sitting more than kneeling, I decided to pull the trigger and buy a sea kayak that will allow me to get out on the ocean. If I am going to sit anyway, why not enjoy Rhode Island's beautiful coast.

Looking for a boat was a bit overwhelming at first. In order to paddle with the RICKA sea kayak crew, I knew that I needed a sea kayak that was 15' or longer with front and rear bulkheads and perimeter lines. That still left a lot of boats. My size did limit things a little. I decided that I wanted a plastic boat that would be suitable as a day-tripper. If I could play around in the rocks, or use it to do some camping, that would be good as well.

Checking it out - I fit!

I ended up buying a 2004 P&H Capella 166 RM from Charles River Canoe & Kayak. This boat was introduced in 1996 and developed a reputation as one of the best plastic sea kayaks around. It is known as a mid-sized boat that turns and tracks well, and is suitable for "big guys". Spec’s for the Capella 166 RM are:

• Length: 16’6”
• Width: 22”
• Depth: 14”
• Rear hatch: 18” x 13”
• Front hatch: 10”
• Day hatch: 8”
• Cockpit: 34” x 20", circumference 88" 
• Material: rotationally molded polyethylene (RM)
• Weight: 54 lbs.

Cockpit with new thigh braces

Once I decided on the boat, I needed to get a paddle. I wasn’t sure what I wanted, but figured I would go with Werner since that is the brand that I use in my canoes. I ended up with the adjustable version of the Shuna, that way I can play around with the length (200-220 cm) and feathering (0-45º). Once I figure out what I like, I’ll probably get a one piece paddle and use this as my spare.

Finding a skirt to fit this boat wasn’t easy either. The boat has a relatively large cockpit, and I have a relatively large belly. I knew that I wanted neoprene, so I ordered a base level bungee spray skirt – the Shockwave from Immersion Research. At some point, maybe I’ll get a custom order from Seals Skirts from Oak Orchard in New York.

2004 P&H Capella 166 RM

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