Maelströmkayak announces the official launch of two new kayaks: the Vaåg 174 and the Vitäl 166

Known for being perfectionists, Charles-Alexandre Desjardins and Alain Brunet, the kayak designers of Maelströmkayak, announce the grand launching of their performance kayaks, the Vaåg 174 and the Vitål 166. Amateur seakayakers everywhere invited to this grande launching which will be held on April 6th at the Aquadôme de LaSalle, 1421 rue Lapierre, from 5pm to 8pm. It's worthwhile noting that Maelströmkayak will be giving a special 10% discount on these models at a launch.

So, why another new seakayak?

Here, as in other parts of the world, kayaking has become a popular activity. At the same time, the variety of kayaks found in the marketplace, it would seem, at first glance, to be all very much the same in many of their features.

Why, indeed then, a new kayak?

"Until today, kayaks in the high performance category like the Vaåg and Vitäl have only been available from foreign builders, and have usually been difficult to obtain. Our intention, then was to develop a seakayak which had characteristics similar to those found in Britain, particularly like those performance kayaks noted for their performance in rough seas. With the design skills and high quality of our builders and manufacturers, we were convinced we could produce a high performance and uniquely designed kayak.

"Thus we have created and built some serious kayaks. Many specialists with various expertise were consulted during the conception of these kayaks and we are extremely proud of the finished product."
Charles-Alexandre Desjardins, president of Maelströmkayak

The Vaåg 174 (17 ft 4 in) and Vitâl 166 (16ft 6 in) kayaks are available in 4 lay-up versions, two in fiberglass and two in carbon fiber. The range will include ultra light and XPD (expedition) versions and an HV version (Vaåg 174).

Some interesting specifications:

• Round bilge hull
• Shallow V bottom with pronounced rocker allows for ease of paddling and superb handling.
• The very low rear deck and cockpit rim is especially designed for rolling and ease of entry and exit.
• The centrally placed day hatch allowing access for left- and right-handers, is very easy to close. When open, it's well away from the water.
• A fourth hatch, much like a glovebox, easily accessed on the foredeck, will quickly become your best friend, carrying your VHF, snack bars, cellphone, camera, GPS, gloves and other handy items.

Obviously, to judge for yourself, no description can take the place of a real demonstration, or better yet, a tryout paddle in a pool. This, then, is a cordial invitation by Maelströmkayak on the 6th of April at the Aquadrôme of LaSalle.