Expedition Sea Kayaks

NC 19 Expedition; Novus Composites; www.nckayaks.com; Price: $2,550; Length: 19' 2"; Beam: 23.75"; Depth: 12.5"; Weight: 58 lbs (fiberglass)

NC 19 Expedition, Novus Composites
The NC 19 is one long kayak. This boat has a couple of features that make it stand out. First off, there is a long clipper-style bow and a large, fine skeg-like stern that help make this boat track like it’s on a rail. The NC 19 is also quite stable and requires a big turning radius. A substantial rub rail encircles the entire boat, protecting the hull-to-deck seam and providing a handy grip when you’re scrambling back aboard after an unplanned swim. The seat is made of your basic fiberglass; it could use some personal outfitting for added comfort. There aren’t any thigh braces, but there was still good thigh grip, which was a pleasant surprise. The arched foredeck has a very small hatch opening, though the compartment itself has ample room. The flat rear deck’s hatch opening is bigger, and there is a separate day hatch just behind the seat from which it is very easy to retrieve gear. The hatches are all round, plastic, twist-and-lock, flush with the deck, and tethered to the boat. There are recessed fittings throughout to prevent tearing up one’s hands and covered bolts inside to prevent tearing up gear. There are lots of bungee cords forward, with a nearly complete perimeter line, but none behind the seat; instead there is a simple strap configuration for a paddle-float rescue.