Kayak: Alternatives to Anaconda Seabird Afjord Touring $999 ?

smarti77 on 17/09/2022 - 15:16

Hi all.
I'm new to kayaking and have about $1,000 to spend.

From my initial research I have a strong preference for a sit in style / touring kayak and this one stands out to me so far:
https://www.anacondastores.com/water-sports/kayaks/touring-kayaks/seabird-afjord-touring-kayak/BP90076552-yellow

I've been watching the price for a while and though the 'Reg' price is $1,399, the 'club' price seems to be very regularly $999.

Is there a better value sit in kayak (which is not too advanced for a relative beginner)?
I'm in Adelaide.

Any other suggestions or feedback gratefully received.
Thank you.

Find Me A Bargain Kayak

Related Stores

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Comments

  • brendanm on 17/09/2022 - 15:40
    +3

    Used from Gumtree/Facebook marketplace. Half price, then if you don't actually like it after trying it, you can sell it for basically the same amount you paid for it.

    • smarti77 on 17/09/2022 - 15:46

      Agreed. I've been watching the local marketplace and gumtree for a while but it's mostly flooded with the sit-on style kayaks.

      • fantombloo on 17/09/2022 - 20:32

        Plus with a second hand one you won't be precious about the first scratch and that'll take you extra places and make using it a lot more fun.

  • DashCam AKA Rolts on 17/09/2022 - 15:52
    +1

    As you're in Adelaide, take a trip to Adelaide Canoe Works, u7/7-9 Streiff Rd, Wingfield SA 5013.
    They have a good range and advice. From memory they will hire, so that you can try out at West Lakes etc. They are not the cheapest but have a great range at a bricks and mortar store. Have bought a couple from them over the years, good service and plenty of accessories available in store. https://www.adelaidecanoeworks.com.au/

    • smarti77 on 17/09/2022 - 15:53

      Thank you. I'll make the trip for a look.

      Edit - They need to hire someone to improve their website! Very 90's..

  • AustriaBargain on 17/09/2022 - 17:27

    Wait for a wealthy private school in Adelaide to go on a kayak excursion, and just load a few of them on your trailer. Tell the kids you're Mr. Smarti here to collect some kayaks.

  • onetrickpony on 17/09/2022 - 19:18
    +2

    That Seabirds very short at 3.68m for a sea kayak, its going to get a bit bouncy and hard to keep straight in even a little bit of chop. Better off with something a little longer really. The average price for a fairly good, used, plastic sit-in kayak is 1000-1200, more used sit-in kayaks tend to come up for sale as the weather warms up too. This price will get you something around 5metres long, the extra length makes the boat faster, more stable and easier to control and will have an average weight around 25kg. There are bigger Seabirds around the 5m mark, and they look okay for a basic entry-level boat, but I've seen a few with rusting stainless steel fittings :(

    If you've got a kayak Meetup group nearby, you could consider joining up. The kayak fraternity is usually pretty friendly - out on the water kayakers tend to watchout for each other, and chances are someone would be happy to lend you a kayak to see what you think - there are very real differences between boats. Its also a good way to meet kayak owners - a lot of buying and selling tends to go on within these groups and happens before any adverts are placed. I've been paddling for 22 years, and can't recommend it enough :)

    • smarti77 on 17/09/2022 - 21:53
      +2

      Thank you for the detailed response. Much appreciated. I hadn't considered the specific local facebook groups. I'll keep in mind your advice regarding the longer kayaks.

  • [Deactivated] on 18/09/2022 - 07:53

    if you're not opposed to making it yourself…

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MFN2tXnd0Y

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l-e8dB7TWg

    • smarti77 on 18/09/2022 - 10:15

      Interesting but I'm confident any kayak made by me would sink on the first test run.

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