Delta Expedition 14.5

The 14.5 is the first craft released by Delta Kayaks; a new Canadian kayak manufacturer who makes thermoformed kayaks exclusively.
            I find it difficult to classify the Delta 14.5.  Its short length and ease of turning suggest it’s a day tripper, which is a boat used primarily for day trips or at most, weekend camping trips; but the way it tracks and carries speed makes me think it’s an expedition kayak.  And with 224 litres of storage space, the 14.5 has a greater capacity than any 17 footer I know about, which would also classify it as an expedition kayak.  So what is it?  I’ve decided to call it a deluxe day tripper with high aspirations and well thought-out details.  You should take it for a test drive before you classify it.
            The first thing I noticed about the Delta 14.5 is the high-quality finishing.  Most thermoformed boats have a black cap on the ends because the manufacturers have a hard time moulding the tight curve and making it look good.  One of the owners at Delta has more than 20 years of experience working with thermoforming and he has apparently learned a few tricks along the way.  The deck and hull fit together beautifully without gaps and the deck fittings are all recessed.  The bungee cords are doubled and have fittings that make it easier to grasp them with cold or gloved hands.
            The seat, made of comfortable thermoformed foam, adjusts fore and aft with a simple wing nut to fine-tune the boat’s trim and to ensure your thighs fit comfortably into the padded thigh braces.  The seat back easily adjusts in height, also with a wing nut, and a cord and jam cleat allow seat back tilt adjustments.
            The gas-pedal-styled foot pegs are easily adjusted, even while seated in the boat – a big benefit if you share your kayak with others.  The ankle portion of the foot peg is anchored and steering is accomplished by pushing on the top of the peg, much like using the gas pedal in your car.  This is my favourite style of peg because it provides greater stability, especially during a brace or roll.  And I really appreciate them during long crossings with aft or beam seas that require a consistent rudder turn.
            Delta also used the finest materials available.  They use Co-ex, a virgin ABS core laminated to acrylic sheets, which makes the boat stiff, light (only 46 lbs!) and very durable.  An additional superficial benefit of the Co-ex is the high sheen and gorgeous deep colours it achieves.
            The 14.5 is a great boat for a wide variety of users.  It’s as fast as many 17 footers, but turns as well as a 14 footer.  It’s very lightweight, yet doesn’t cost a fortune.  And it’s fabulous to look at, and very durable.
            The Delta 14.5 comes in two sizes: the expedition and the sport.  They are exactly the same except the expedition is one inch deeper to accommodate a bigger paddler.  Get one that fits you the best.