Description

The Xplore is uncompromising in performance, the ultimate balance between load carrying, speed and seaworthiness. Its computer honed hull shape squeezes away residual drag, making this the leanest touring kayak in the Tiderace range. This kayak is capable of multi-week expeditions in the toughest conditions. Seaworthiness is paramount in such situations, and this hull incorporates the latest features of an Aled Williams design.

Details

The Xplore is suited to paddlers ranging between 5' 6" and 6' 3", and weighing up to 17stone.  The Xplore can accommodate large feet.

Lines Plan

Stability

Stability curve generated for Xplore: Paddler weight = 80kg, Boat weight = 24kg, Cargo = 7kg

Design Brief

The Brief: Design an expedition sea kayak that would set new boundaries of performance.

This kayak should fit paddlers 5' 6" and taller, be capable of carrying an expedition load of at least 30kg (plus paddler), have a high cruising speed: 5kn empty, 4.5kn loaded, be responsive and seaworthy in rough conditions.

Notes from the Designer: This has been a long standing design challenge for me. Over the last 15 or so years I have mostly turned my design attention to short to medium length sea kayaks with an interest in making them the best handing touring boats for rough conditions. This Xplore design had to incorporate all the best sea keeping features developed in my previous designs with an efficient cruising speed and ample storage. By using a dedicated kayak design software package, it has been possible for me to bring together the features I recognise that make a seaworthy kayak and refine the shape into and efficient expedition kayak. The design has been optimised for a fast cruising speed, which should be easily attainable and sustainable by a moderately fit paddler. Every kayak design is a compromise between various factors:

• Extreme seaworthiness makes for a slow but manoeuvrable boat (think ship’s lifeboat or fishing boat)
• Extreme stability makes for a slow and cumbersome boat (think barge)
• Speed can increased by reducing stability and ultimately loosing seaworthiness (think racing K1)

The Xplore, as an expedition sea kayak, is balanced between Efficient Cruising Speed, Stability, Load Carrying and Seaworthiness.

Setup

Medium size paddlers will benefit from keeping the seat in the standard (middle) length position for best trim. Taller paddlers, or those with long legs may benefit from moving the seat back 20mm for best trim.

Expect to paddle the Xplore with a quarter skeg down for general paddling. Raise the skeg completely for close manouvering and surfing, adjust the skeg drop for across the wind trim and running down wind.

Smaller paddlers may customise their seats by raising them on extra foam, up to 10mm max.

Video