Spindrift 2

Recently completed a modified version of Bjorn’s Spindrift 2. I wanted a very stable and shorter version of the design for relaxed ocean paddling. Something a bit more stable than a Epic V8 double and lower volume than my Nelo 600 and of course, better looking. The Nelo has way too much volume for Luanne and I, us being on the lighter side weight wise. I built a Spindrift single years ago and have been very pleased with that design.

I contacted Bjorn and requested that he make some modifications to the stock design. The modified design is 612cmLx58cmW. I made a mould from my Think Zen to create the carbon fiber buckets. Long story short, we recently launched her and couldn’t be more pleased. Turned out to be more stable and faster then expected. Took her out in some wind and waves yesterday and was pleased with the sports car feel. Very responsive and nimble. A bit wet going into steep chop but a wave deflector and open bailer takes care of that. Every design consideration has a price. We both came home elated at how much fun this boat is to paddle. Thanks again Bjorn for a wonderful design! Ken

Had another relaxed paddle in the Spindrift 2 yesterday with my wife Luanne. This time in flat water. The first word that came to us both is this boat is FUN. We are accustomed to paddling tippier surfskis and enjoy that immensely. The purpose of this boat is to have these type of relaxed paddles but still have a well performing boat. We have no problem easily paddling it between 9.6kph and 9.9kph and have sprinted above 13kph. We have taken a couple of months off from regular paddles so I would expect even better performance when the ‘motors” are tuned up.

Of course part of the pleasure in paddling this ski is the comfort. As mentioned earlier the ZEN bucket is perfect for us both. I can’t emphasize enough how important getting the correct bucket is in order to have the ergonomics and comfort that is so important to get the most out of a surfski.

Here are some photos of the build. I hope to improve the album after taking care of some projects around the house didn’t get done because of this build. Building boats is way more fun than home maintenance!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/rLWixWrRmBbvSQrG7

Thanks for posting the photos Ken. I have a friend who is building a Spindrift at the moment so I'll send him the link. He's been out for a paddle with me a few times on the V8 double that I have. I was interested to read that you were after a ski more stable than the V8 Double as I've been out in some 50-60 kmhr downwinds and even though both buckets have filled with water due to the waves, we've never had an issue. Even my wife has been happy going out through the heads on Sydney Harbour. I also have a Zen which was my first ski but I much prefer the bucket on my V9 to the Zen. I'm hoping to build a Spindrift double next year as I think the 54cm beam would be ideal for me

After 2 seasons with my Spindrift double I thought I would add some of my thoughts. My comments above gave the reasons I decided to build this modified version. Bjorn was kind enough to draw the modifications I requested.

Our first season in the new ski were enjoyable and the boat preformed as I had hoped. During the season I had an injury so didn't get to do any bigger wave paddleing in the ocean.

Fast forward to this Winter in San Diego and we have had lot's more time in the buckets including many paddles out of the bay into the ocean. I must say that at this point, "The Deuce" has exceeded expectations! This ski is a dream to paddle in the swells and bumps. Incredibly stable and well balanced as well as very maneuverable in the waves. Often we are in swells and sizable boat wakes that make for some "interesting" water and we never have any fear of taking a swim. While not designed for racing , it moves along quite smartly. We did a race here this year and managed a # 22 finish out of almost 500 entries (lot's of SUPS). For a couple of older paddlers we were very pleased and have come to think of this boat as our favorite out of a stable of over 12 boats (yes, I am an addict). Thanks again Bjorn for your fine design work!! Ken Katz