G'Day,
from the States.
I saw this multi-tasking watercraft from Switch Kayaks of New Zealand mentioned a few months ago and since it is due out in June I was wondering if any of you Kiwis have gotten a look at it or even done a test paddle..... and if so, what was your assessment. their website

kayak_with_MPD.jpg (45 Kb, 336 downloads)

Hiya dduffe, there was some earlier discussion about this kayak http://kfs.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/4126086261/m/5011042412
I'm not aware of anyone that has actually seen or paddled one here in NZ yet.

DogFish

Thanks Dogfish,
It's still not June yet so maybe in a couple of weeks they'll have pricing and a better website up with pictures maybe even movie clips.

I just saw where' it's 12'-7 1/2" not quite the optimum length.

I'm on their mailing list and they sent this graphic with pricing for the different combos and this announcement:


"Greetings everyone,

Thank you for registering on our website. Attached is a PDF with
pictures and product details.
The winner will be draw in July (the day the first kayak comes out of
the factory)

You are the first in the world to see it - I hope you like it.

See you at the NZ Boat show in Auckland next week.

Regards,

Stacy Bower


Here it is - the covers are off and the product is on display at the NZ
Boat show next week in Auckland.

Regards,

Stacy Bower

Managing Director - SWITCH"

The basic kayak is $1,400. With all the bells and whistles it runs up to $5,300

To me, the sail rig and outriggers look very good. I wonder what the approved HP rating is for the outboard motor.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: dduffe,

switch_kayak.jpg (41 Kb, 91 downloads) switch offering

dduffle, et al...
Here's the scoop I received from Ms. Bower:
- There are 4 rod holders 2 in front 1 In the rear and one in the centre console.
- The outrigger pontoons can be simply relocated to the rear by the average Joe.The pontoons are actually high quality inflatable kayaks (kiddy size) so they can be deflated and rolled up - saving space and adding a 'family friendly' dimension to the product. You will be able to store gear in thepontoons (as they are a sit in style kayak).
- As for storage to the rear of the paddler. I have attached a photo of the area you can't see in the pictures (behind the seat). It holds astandard 10 liter paint pail. (See attachment). The other container you seein the photo is an industry standard "fish bin" it can either be storedas seen facing the angler or upside down to cover gear I the rear well.
- The tyres are pneumatic and 400mm in diameter. There is a pvc skin cover for the front well and also a water resistant 'backpack' that will be available as accessories.
- The hull has be designed by a marine architect and is a gull wingprofile (speed, tracking and stability).
- Max horsepower rating is 5hp

This message has been edited. Last edited by: SeaFlea,

Switch_Stern.JPG (97 Kb, 80 downloads)

Are the $$ UDS or NZD and if NZD what is the current exchange rate?

The prices are NZD$ and you can check for the latest exchange rate here: Currency Convertor

DogFish

So, a full up switch with all the bells and whistles roughly equivilent to a Hobie AI, plus shipping of course. Not too shabby.

You NZers do know how to make fast sailboats.