The rotomoulded hull is very stable and robust, and self-bailing thanks to the lack of a transom so all you have to do is keep the speed up and all the water runs out the back.
Unfortunately, this also means that when you move forward on the slide (ie backwards on the boat) the stern dips and water rushes back into the boat, which then comes to a halt.The aluminium oars don't help either, but even with a nice pair of wooden Macons she was a pig to row.
Marcus and Christine Ball took her out too and didn't seem to be very impressed - the picture shows them coming back to land.
I will give the boat one more chance with a pair of full-length carbon fibre Macons that I happen to have.
Meanwhile, here's a picture of the event every father dreads. Darling daughter going to the school prom with some boy. Actually, he seems very nice and is learning Japanese, something I know I don't have the sticktoitiveness or talent to do. But it is a disturbing experience anyway.
5 comments:
Interesting boat test Chris, the Yole looks very practical and well thought out and the open transom/self draining capability is appealing in open water - but a rowing boat has to be good to row - you don't say why you weren't enchanted?
You are absolutely right, Max. The Yole is an excellent boat in every respect apart from not rewarding to row, which is a bit of a fundamental defect really.
Sorry for raising what may be an off-topic question (something I rarely do), but could you explain the origin of this British custom of being photographed with a fire engine at one's prom?
I haven't a clue, Mr O'D. When I completed compulsory education, there was no last day ceremony at all. The lads went to the pub and the girls went home. But Nichola and the boy apparently won the contest for Coolest Arrival, especially as the driver switched on the 'blues and twos' and stormed through the school.
sir,
you seem to know the skiffs. I am looking for a open water skiff for Mediterranee(1 or 2 rowers)which is great to row and fairly fast but which also accomodates the occasional family needs (dry, safe, some capacity to transport the gear for the day trip...). And, limited maintenance need. And, not overwhemmingly difficult to handle on land. Would you be able to recommend any such boat?
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