"The Voyager also prefers an adept paddler, or gear in the bilge to lower the center of gravity." That phrase from Wenonah’s web site haunted me—a rank beginner—as I contemplated buying their long, skinny solo boat. I wanted a fast boat, but had my doubts about this one; despite the encouraging paddling.net posts from regulars, I wanted to try one before ordering a Voyager.

I got in touch with String, who had one on order. When he invited me to his boat’s maiden voyage, I jumped at the chance. I wanted to see how tender the boat really was. But so far, I was merely curious; it was String who had ordered the boat without a test paddle.

I wasn’t alone: A small crowd of the morbidly curious gathered on the shore of South Carolina’s Lake Keowee Sunday morning (3/7/04) to watch as String settled himself in the bright red boat’s tractor seat.

The boat didn't capsize the moment he sat down, so off he went.

The maiden voyage was uneventful.

I don’t know if it was his native generosity or because he wanted to see someone swim from the boat, but he let anyone there who was well over 6’ tall and 50 years old try the boat, as long as that person was also wearing a Tilley hat and cheap sunglasses; only one taker, and I didn’t manage to capsize it, either.

I’ll let String report on the boat. I’m just here to testify that he stayed upright during the ensuing two or three hours of paddling, despite some strong winds and large powerboat wakes. And I think I’m going to order one soon; I can’t stand not being able to keep up!

Thanks, String!