The Menai 18 is Rockpool’s high carrying capacity and rugged sea kayak for extended expedition use by advanced paddlers. Building on the original dynamic concept of the Alaw, the Menai 18 is a high performance wave carving thoroughbred with balanced handling, impressive surfing ability and ergonomic cockpit design with elevated knee position.
The hull configuration gives high forward speed due to its long waterline relative to the overall length. When upright the hull tracks in a straight line even when coasting, and has been balanced to give neutral directional stability in windy conditions. The bow and stern have shape and volume to shed water in choppy and rough conditions, without excessive slamming characteristics when dropping into wave troughs. The underwater section of the hull changes character, from Vee'd at the entry point of the bow, rounded through the front section, soft chined under the cockpit, rounded under the stern compartments to a defined built-in skeg section at the stern. The rounded sections of the hull give a cushioning effect in waves while the chined section aids surfing and maximises top speed in downwind situations.
The Menai 18 has a unique deck shape which sets it apart from other sea kayaks. This deck shape serves two major features; first, cockpit ergonomics and, second, water shedding. The comfortable seating position is arranged around a relatively elevated knee position which allows the thigh and foot to be aligned. This relieves stress from all the leg joints, especially the outer knee ligaments and ankle. The combination of padded backrest and choice of seat widths makes the Menai 18 a most comfortable kayak for extended use.
Specification
- Adjustable bulkhead footrest
- Four hatches
- Hatch covers
- Decklines
- Fibreglass and rubber seat with foam hip pads
- Padded backrest
- Foam padded thigh braces
Colours
The Menai 18 is available in any colour combination. Custom graphics and sparkling glitter effects are applied by spraygun and make for a truly individual kayak. Click here to see the colours available (opens in new window).
Try for yourself
The best way to decide which kayak suits you is to try them out on the water. Click here for details of forthcoming dates or email sales@karitek.co.uk.
How to buy
All Rockpool kayaks are made to order to your chosen specification. To order your custom made boat just give us a call on 01292 571019 or email us with your requirements.
Dimensions
- Length: 5.54m
- Width: 0.53m
Click on the menu at the top of the page to compare with other Rockpool models.
Features
- Unique Rockpool hull design: manoeuvrable and high speed
- Ergonomic cockpit: dynamic and comfortable paddling position
- Low back to cockpit rim makes rolling easy
- Three main compartments with clipped hatch covers
- Useful small storage hatch in foredeck
- Elastic cradle in day hatch for flasks etc
- Integral seat with hip pads and padded backrest
- Choice of seat widths for ultimate comfort
- Adjustable bulkhead footrest angled for natural ankle position
- Available in ultra-light vacuum bag build - contact us for details
- Available in 3 piece construction (to special order only)
Price
Menai 18 sea kayak from £2175 (excl. skeg)
To order, email us or call on
01292 571 019.
Skeg Systems
The Rockpool Menai 18 is available with any of Kari-Tek's Skeg Systems. These offer superior performance and reliability to existing skeg designs: click here for more details.
- Hydro Skeg® - heightened reliability, increased levels of control, less prone to damage, virtually maintenance free
- Wire Skeg - positive, easy action, simple to use slider. A wire skeg is fitted as standard
- Rope Skeg - the simple, low cost option
Skeg Rudder System
The new Kari-Tek Skeg Rudder System (SRS) is also now available in the Menai 18. Both a skeg and an understern rudder, the SRS gives you maximum flexibility. With all the great features of the Hydro Skeg® plus the benefits of a rudder, the SRS is set to change kayak rudders for ever. Click here for details.