Trying out the Hydro-Force Cove Champion 1 Person Inflatable Kayak

Join me for a quick paddle around Lee, North Devon while I try out my new Hydro-Force Cove Champion 1-Person Inflatable Kayak
I have been itching to get back on the water but, it's summer and the waves have been less than stellar. I bought this kayak as I regretted selling my old one. I plan on buying a touring kayak but, that is going to take some saving up! Until then this should do nicely as it doesn't take up much space and is easy to inflate.
This is my first time taking it out and it won't be my last!
Sorry for the lens and wonky framing, I'll get it sorted for next time.

[@MissTomatoJam]

I enjoy going on adventures with you!

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

Glad you like them! I'm hoping to go out tomorrow and film more of the coastline.

[@TaintedBrain]

Inflatable kayak! Wouldn't have thought it would be that stable.

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

It's way better than I expected for £100!

[@Kev.B.4311]

Nice one Dan, I've just subscribed & I bought this boat a couple of months ago, although I got sent the blue & yellow one, not blue & grey... I have hardshell kayaks & also an itiwit 3 person, but wanted something smaller & more compact / lightweight to just chuck in a rucksack... I've not had the chance to use it yet, due to recent accident & ankle injuries, but I really like the look of it & was interested to see how you found it to paddle, which looked pretty good going for an inflatable on the sea...👍 I also wildcamp & enjoy cycling, so will look forward to watching some of your other vids...👊

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

Thanks! The key seems to be using the large fin and counteracting the torque from paddling with your lower body.

[@mechengineer4894]

That's the Atlantic Ocean, yes? Assuming it's the one 9ft long, I've seen footage of children using that kayak and it still looks tiny compared to the kid in it.

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

Technically it's the Bristol Channel but yeah, it's the Atlantic. It is indeed the 9' kayak. It doesn't feel too small when I'm in it but it would be nicer to paddle if it were a little longer. I'm just using it as a stopgap until I find a good deal on a touring kayak.

[@ito6722]

I'm 6`2", is it ok for me?

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

I'd give it a go. My local Tesco has ot down to £30 at the moment!

[@cojomo123]

It’s bound to happen one day isn’t it, well, let’s hope you’re not out in the Atlantic Ocean when it does!!!😊👍🥃.

[@bigrob029]

short overview and glamour shots coming soon?

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

Yeah I need to take it out again for a longer session. Then I'll probably make a review video.

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

I've glued a magnetic mount to my buoyancy aid which should stop the gopro hitting my chin.

[@bigrob029]

@@FatBlokeDoingStuff mount a camera on the kayak to face you too so we can see your beautiful mug in the B-roll from time to time?

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

@@bigrob029 That might be a a bit tricky, I'd have to glue a mount to the kayak. I'd have to find a glue which won't damage it... I might have just figured out how to do it and I think I have the parts.

[@bigrob029]

@@FatBlokeDoingStuff yeah.... glue sounds kinda permanent. i was thinking more like grip or clamp mount

[@ffffff7593]

If i go on ocean with rough water would this be better than a low budget inflateable sup board?

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

I haven't tried using a SUP yet, so I can't really say which would be better. Having said that, your centre of gravity will be lower in the kayak, and as you sit in it, you would be less likely to end up in the water. How rough are you thinking?

[@BVB44388]

How much did you go? I think more than 1 km ?

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

I just had a look at the data, just under 3km

[@BVB44388]

​@@FatBlokeDoingStuffThanks for the answer 👍

[@markbryan8891]

Neither me or my daughter can get this to go in a straight line on a flat river. What are we doing wrong? It’s horrific no way I could do more than half hour. We both are strong kayakers

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

I found using the larger fin on the bottom helped somewhat and altering my paddling style so as not to twist my body too much.

[@FatBlokeDoingStuff]

I use the long fin which came with it and try not to twist my hips when paddling.