Nadgee ‘Expedition’ & ‘Solo’ Sea Kayaks.


By Stuart Trueman



Nadgee ‘Solo’ & ‘Expedition’ kayaks are designed and built for the ocean by active Expedition Sea Kayakers.

This reflects not only in the design and build but in the attention to detail which demonstrates the experience and ingenuity of those involved.



These are quick, ocean going kayaks that track well and respond quickly. They are easily turned with a tilt of the kayak with the good secondary stability giving a secure feeling as you lean it over.

They can be handled without skeg or rudder but, as with all kayaks, both will help in some conditions.

To paddle a kayak designed to be paddled without a rudder or skeg will give you a better understanding of the connection between you, the kayak and the ocean. This allows you to develop your skills and become a better kayaker.



Some kayaks will be faster, some turn tighter, some track better and some be more stable. Very few kayaks will be as fast and turn as well, then track well while being as stable as a Nadgee ‘Solo’ or ‘Expedition’.



I’ve heard that kayak compartments can’t be made 100% water proof. Well that’s just not true; I have a 8 year old Nadgee that has never leaked in any hatch. I don’t bother putting my sleeping bag in a dry bag. At the end of the day it’s always as dry as it went in.

Custom fit bulkheads ensure the for’d compartment has as much capacity as possible and the added advantage of limited cockpit volume allowing less water in that you have to pump out.



If your knowledge of fibre glassing is as limited as mine you’ll be temped to assume all kayaks are built equal. I may not know the best way to build a kayak but I do know that when all that’s keeping you alive is your kit make bloody sure its not second rate. The build quality of these kayaks is exceptional and with even a rudimentary knowledge of a kayak build you can’t fail but be impressed.



Finding a suitable kayak is a journey each kayaker makes. I’d suggest you paddle a few before buying. But if you’re intending to paddle the ocean you would be doing your self a favour by trying out a Nadgee ‘Solo’ or ‘Expedition’.



It’s hard to imagine the limits of this kayak; it has the capability to take you where you want to go.