Some Background On This Project Kayak
Yakworks Kayak of Southport acquired this project boat, a Wilderness Systems Tchaika by chance. We met a gentlemen through the shop who had a kayak on his property and no intention of ever kayaking. "Stop by and see if it something you would be interested in." he said. With only the description of it being a kayak you sit inside and that it did not appear to be plastic, we were intrigued.
Upon arriving at his property the kayak could only be seen peaking out of the woods but what we could see told us everything we needed to know. This mystery kayak was worth the drive to investigate. As we walked towards the kayak's current resting place it just kept getting better. First the shape of the cockpit and the top lines raising from the weeds told us it was a classic touring kayak and probably 12-14 feet in length. She was a narrow kayak and shaped like a bullet. This was no play-boat, it was going to have a story. Though the hull was full of water, we could tell it was probably fiberglass but at this point it did not matter. We were in love.
We drained the water from the hull knowing it at least was watertight since it was completely full. The boat had been painted leaving no identifying marks, brand or information but it had potential. We were going to save this kayak from fading away for ever.
The Wilderness Systems Tchaika: A Kayak That's Built for Adventure
In the vast and exhilarating world of kayaking, the Wilderness Systems Tchaika stands out as a true gem, a versatile vessel that has captured the hearts of paddlers for years. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer with countless miles under your belt or just dipping your toes into the world of paddling, the Tchaika offers a welcoming and reliable companion for your aquatic explorations. This kayak, a testament to Wilderness Systems' commitment to crafting kayaks that prioritize both performance and user-friendliness, has become a favorite among paddlers of all stripes.
At this time, we only know the Tchaika was made in the early 1990's as a small platform touring kayak meant for smaller paddlers around 165 pounds. Wilderness Systems had identified this customer segment as left out and intimated by some the longer, more competitive designed tourning kayaks of the day. This boat would offer the performance but with a friendlier approach to entering the sport of touring kayaks.
Specifications
- 14' long
- 21.75" wide
- 11.75 high
- 31.5" x 15 cockpit opening
- 42 Pounds
Who was the Tchaika Right For?
The Tchaika's broad range of capabilities made it an excellent choice for a wide range of paddlers, including:
- Beginners: Its stability and ease of use make it the perfect kayak for those new to the world of paddling. It's forgiving enough to learn in, but capable enough to grow with you as your skills develop.
- Recreational paddlers: Whether you enjoy leisurely cruises on calm waters or exploring hidden coves, the Tchaika will provide a comfortable and enjoyable paddling experience.
- Touring paddlers: If you're planning multi-day trips, the Tchaika's ample storage space and comfortable design will make your journey smoother.
- Anglers: The Tchaika's stable platform and open deck make it ideal for casting a line and enjoying a day of fishing.
- Light whitewater paddlers: For those seeking a bit more excitement, the Tchaika can handle Class I and II rapids, allowing you to explore a wider range of waterways.
How we found it
