Necky Manitou Sport Kayak - 2007 BCS

We test paddled a lot of boats before picking the Manitou Sport and have only grown in our liking to this great all around rec boat. Handles very well and uber-comfortable with its adjustable seat. Beginners take to it easily and experienced folks appreciate the well thought out features. To date, we've been on rivers and lakes. We expect to use it on lazy creeks and protected bays. Nice design, Necky!

I recently purchased the Necky Manitou Sport. I am 6'1'' and around 200 pounds. I do not feel that I overwhelm the boat. I've taken the boat in somewhat windy and choppy conditions on the Columbia outside of Umatilla, and it performs and tracks well. I went kayaking with a friend who owns a fiberglass Perception Carolina. The Carolina is a faster boat, being longer, so I don't think my comparative slowness resulted from my size and weight. As far as fit is concerned, I paddled ten miles recently in relative comfort, though at over six feet you may find that your knees will protrude slightly above the cockpit rim, that is, in the most comfortable position for a taller person. I think the Sport is a good choice if one wants a relatively inexpensive boat to use in a variety of conditions. The shorter length is a plus, but the thing is still bulky, and I don't know if the extra foot or so difference between models would matter greatly. Anyway, the boat is okay for me, beginner that I am.