Venture Kayaks Islay 12

A Short, Stable Touring Kayak

The Venture Kayaks Islay 12 is a short, recreational touring kayak perfect for most paddlers wanting to explore fresh touring waters or light calm estuaries. This stable hull is constructed from MZ3 which is a tough and durable plastic and allows the paddler to not have to worry about being over careful with the Islay 12. A sleek entry line to the bow that rises with a classic shape above the water ensures an efficient forward paddle and ensures any chop disperses away from the cockpit. A flatter mid section of the hull gives that great stability to grow the confidence of newer paddlers, but this also allows for developing paddlers to progress and push to the limits of the Islay 12. Smoothly rounded chines either side of the kayak allow for the paddler to negative edge for quicker and easier turns either through 360 degrees or when paddling long flowing bends of rivers. The stern of the kayak is a well crafted exit line keeping the Islay tracking well, it also houses the Skeg system which drops out under the kayak to keep the paddler on-line when conditions are against them. The Skeg system is controlled via a jamming cleat that has been specifically positioned to the front of the cockpit, this ensures it is within easy reach and that the paddler never snags a stroke by making contact with this cleat.

Outfitted with Venture Kayaks Connect outfitting the paddler is comfortable for a full days paddling. Using a well padded seat base as well as a pull adjusted backband the Islay 12 ensures a positive paddle posture is encouraged. Thigh braces and adjustable twist lock foot pegs give great connectivity to the kayak ensuring the paddler has the best control for skill moves like edging as well as driving the kayak forward. A bow and stern hatch with rubber hatch covers and bulkheads ensure plenty of storage for a day or even a weekend trip out on the water and even act as buoyancy should a capsize happen. Deck bungee's to the front deck ensure you can keep essentials close by and deck lines give an attachment point and allow for grabbing the kayak anywhere down the kayak. Bow and stern carry handles make two person lift, loading and car topping simple. To the front of the cockpit Venture have left a recessed area designed to take their storage pod - this is an optional extra that can be ordered if required.

The Venture Kayaks Islay 12 is a brilliant short touring kayak for paddlers looking to get out on the water in their first touring kayak but not wanting to be limited in the long run or for those looking to develop their paddling to cover more distance or carry more gear.