New 14'8" open water board from starboard

[PonoBill]

I just got a copy of  Starboard's latest catalog from Svein. Posted it on Ke Nalu (www.kenalu.com). It's pretty interesting--they focused it on flatwater paddling. Two new boardes (new to me anyway) a 14'8" foot steered open water co-designed by Mark Raaphorst and Svein, and a kid's Sup board.

The open water board is lovely. I was at Mark's place last week and saw the new 18 foot open water racer he's building. Designed for flattish water (like Cali). Gorgeous, of course.

[greatdane]

The 14' 8" looks awesome.  Can you find out a retail price?  I have contacted the company but haven't heard back...
Thanks!!

[stoneaxe]

That does look sweet. Wouldn't that be fun to paddle on the 7P's this summer. Think I'd be able to ride that thing?

[PonoBill]

I don't know if we'll have one, starboard hasn't told me yet, but we'll have one of Mark Raaphorst's F-16's I think, and maybe the new 18' flatwater.  Mark's boards are rare as hen's teeth because he makes them one at time, hollow, in a mold. But if you want to go fast on a standup board, he's the guy. Look at any open water race and you see a raft of F16's, then everything else. Assuming they have some wherever the race is. I suspect some superhuman paddler  like Dave Kalama could overcome the advantages of Mark's boards, but not many others could.

If you had one for the 7p's you'd have to keep turning around to stay with the group. Incidentally, makes sense to have more than one chase boat.

[stoneaxe]

My biggest concern is obviously stability. That's going to be a long paddle for this newb. But I also don't want to slow down the group either. I guess conditions would dictate what I can ride anyway. probably just best to stick with my 12'6. I was fine chasing that kite (on the downwind run at least) even in the chop. Mike has a 12' Laird that he's going to use.

It'll be interesting to try out some different rides at the board showcase that's for sure. This is going to be such a blast!

Yeah, I'm actually planning on at least two boats for the 7p's. One in front for GPS and a lookout. We will be crossing the shipping channel coming out of the canal and it wouldn't hurt to watch for sharks either. I'm going to ask Lara and Jacqui to ride in the rear boat for med support.