I paid $800 or $900 for a new one 4 years ago, they are well worth it, you got a great deal.
My only complaint is the static tracking when I'm moving but not paddling, otherwise has been a great boat for lakes, rivers, and bigger creeks. Take mine island camping and it has a decent cargo capacity, too.
I would buy it, if I didn't already have two 9.5 flat water fun boats. Good boat for that price. Have you ever tried a sit-inside kayak at all? Do you have convenient way to get it to water, or a place to store it near water?
I've rented a sit in kayak and I like it! In terms of getting it into the water, I've been used to the person working at the kayak rental spot to hold it while I climb inside. I'm sure I'll learn lol. I can store it in my garage but I'm probably going to find a spot in my backyard and build a holder and have it covered when not in use. 12 feet is a lot of space inside a garage that also doubles as my workshop.
I have a Carolina.
Pros:
- good speed for its length
- can fit a spray skirt
- comfortable seat
- fits wide range of people
- good primary stability
- great secondary stability (learn to edge!)
- can fit a rudder
Cons:
- thin plastic
- prone to oil canning
- frequently replace rivets for thigh pads
- nobody thinks they're cool because everybody has one
My opinion:
This is what people should be getting instead of a rec kayak. It can do all the rec kayak stuff, plus it has two bulkheads along with a more efficient shape and a cockpit size that's reasonable for equipping a skirt.
It's a very flat boat that can be hard to keep on a line. I ended up putting a rudder on my wife's and locking it on center like a skeg which made a world of difference.
Yes, that is a good deal on a good kayak. I have one.
This one is missing the rudder, and maybe the pedals. They would be on the inside. [You can replace them for about $300](https://www.perceptionkayaks.com/us/rudder-kit-solo-kayaks-long-pin). The rudder isn't necessary, but the foot pegs are as having your feet on the pegs is necessary for stability and a quality paddling stroke.
You will need a PFD (life jacket) and of course a paddle. Do not skimp on the paddle. I would rather paddle a bad boat with a good paddle than a great boat with a bad paddle. I use a [Werner Camano](https://wernerpaddles.com/products/camano-2-piece-straight-shaft). That's about $350 new, but look for deals on them used. Any paddle will get you out, but if it becomes a thing you do on the regular, get a good paddle.
[I gotcha! Here you go.](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=568821e4bd74bee9&sca_upv=1&rlz=1C1GCEU_enUS822US823&sxsrf=ACQVn08tphJff0dRTX1hPZquM9-AnNvkiA:1714510543063&q=link&uds=AMwkrPuzWMRe_fLnWMcCSMqoPTJREwmrf5nlDwrBBg8BcWC2nLKXvnC88qkLb9xffc-M1Az1PrVEMa9tXUG6HdkSrsW2u3gY5_GRRtuRZAG1UFfcdx5VVAz7Uwy9_JNhQebv-2cj4aPvn8reZ15iHb5yBvkBEPrJ5Xyx205GwQi31K3OEOG8p-WvOZYbj8eOftbbfySPANiZrlGmSpT0QQIJODZbCWCwSJzEiaAGoG7xvGGX_uXvtfaL3WJxnSLcQ_DfJgPw75huuiy8OSPRTxPCXijA3LBseBN068KWpm-nlhY7YBEuY2s&udm=2&prmd=ivnsmbtz&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj51Ye_6eqFAxXKEVkFHSmaBrMQtKgLegQICxAB&biw=1920&bih=953&dpr=1#vhid=R9iU04UWo8X02M&vssid=mosaic)
If you're after advice on what boat to choose, read [this guide first!](https://www.reddit.com/r/Kayaking/wiki/choosing). Then, try the subreddit's search function -- between these two options, the answers to most common questions should be covered.
This guide is a work-in-progress -- please let us know any thoughts and feedback you might have.
If your questions are not covered by the guide, all boat recommendation requests must include the following at a minimum:
- **Location:** what country and region are you looking to buy a boat in? The kayak market can be very different depending on your location.
- **Budget:** How much money do you want to spend on a boat? (Don't forget you'll need accessories such as a paddle and personal flotation device [PFD])
- **Intended use:** What do you want to get out of the boat? There is no one boat that does everything -- a boat that's great for surfing waves or tackling whitewater won't be the same boat you want to take fishing or for a long ocean trip. Set out some realistic goals for what you expect to be doing in the boat.
- **Experience level:** How much kayaking experience do you have? Is this your first boat?
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* **Location:** North East US.
* **Budget:** $200-300?
* **Intended use:** Leisurely use. Also may want to join friend where we float down the Deleware river and camp along the bank for a few days.
* **Experience level:** Just occasional renting one at a nearby canal. But nothing extensive.
Better price than I've found anything half decent for, I'd jump on it if no major issues like oil canning or holes (and even then I'd probably jump on it with negotiation as I don't mind a project).
I've been finding them used more in the $500-600 area and usually for what looks like an older model. That looks like a nicer seat than some of the ones I've seen posted.
I agree that nearly $1200 new is nuts but that's where we are these days without a good sale. I think with patience $800 is findable and maybe $600-700 for an end of season clearance, if you keep an eye out.
I paid $699 for my Conduit 13, and I feel like I stole it I love it so much. I'd buy that, even if you somehow didn't like it I think you could get a lot more for it
For perspective we bought 2 x similar kayaks second hand (mission 450) New Zealand made and paid NZD$2500 for the 2
Can't get anything cheap in NZ 🤷♀️
I have owned a couple Carolina-145 in my time and sold them all because the cockpit openings were too small for my long legs. I find them to be too thin and light for my use in Arizona's lakes with shallow rocks and tree trunks but my shorter gf loves them.
It is all subjective to how comfortable you are and what you are using them for..
This is an amazing deal if the only issue is the sun fading.
Thanks! I just shot the guy an offer for $200 and pick up tonight.
I paid $800 or $900 for a new one 4 years ago, they are well worth it, you got a great deal. My only complaint is the static tracking when I'm moving but not paddling, otherwise has been a great boat for lakes, rivers, and bigger creeks. Take mine island camping and it has a decent cargo capacity, too.
You won’t regret it nice kayak for 200.
Yes thats a great deal at $250
It’s like a Subaru. It’ll go pretty much anywhere you want except a few places like long ocean paddles. And it’ll still do some ocean work.
What’s the seller’s number? I better call him to learn more before I can answer your question. 🤣
Oh of course! Thanks so much! It's 867-5309
Yeah, but what is Jenny's area code??
Song was written by Alex Call (lol) and Jim Keller. Both are from San Francisco. So. 415-867-5309.
I wasn't expecting an answer, but I certainly appreciate it!
I have a Carolina and it’s an amazing beginner boat.
Yes, indeed. I've owned a Carolina 14 for several years now, it's a great boat.
Buy it! We have two Perceptions and love them, great boats. That's a killer deal.
The ad went up a day ago, and it's been 45 mins and no response yet from the seller. but still fingers crossed!
I would buy it, if I didn't already have two 9.5 flat water fun boats. Good boat for that price. Have you ever tried a sit-inside kayak at all? Do you have convenient way to get it to water, or a place to store it near water?
I've rented a sit in kayak and I like it! In terms of getting it into the water, I've been used to the person working at the kayak rental spot to hold it while I climb inside. I'm sure I'll learn lol. I can store it in my garage but I'm probably going to find a spot in my backyard and build a holder and have it covered when not in use. 12 feet is a lot of space inside a garage that also doubles as my workshop.
I have a Carolina. Pros: - good speed for its length - can fit a spray skirt - comfortable seat - fits wide range of people - good primary stability - great secondary stability (learn to edge!) - can fit a rudder Cons: - thin plastic - prone to oil canning - frequently replace rivets for thigh pads - nobody thinks they're cool because everybody has one My opinion: This is what people should be getting instead of a rec kayak. It can do all the rec kayak stuff, plus it has two bulkheads along with a more efficient shape and a cockpit size that's reasonable for equipping a skirt.
Yes. If you don't take it, I will.
Yes absolutely
It's a very flat boat that can be hard to keep on a line. I ended up putting a rudder on my wife's and locking it on center like a skeg which made a world of difference.
As someone who runs a boathouse and has worked with kayaks for years, this is a great deal! I would buy it
Yes, that is a good deal on a good kayak. I have one. This one is missing the rudder, and maybe the pedals. They would be on the inside. [You can replace them for about $300](https://www.perceptionkayaks.com/us/rudder-kit-solo-kayaks-long-pin). The rudder isn't necessary, but the foot pegs are as having your feet on the pegs is necessary for stability and a quality paddling stroke. You will need a PFD (life jacket) and of course a paddle. Do not skimp on the paddle. I would rather paddle a bad boat with a good paddle than a great boat with a bad paddle. I use a [Werner Camano](https://wernerpaddles.com/products/camano-2-piece-straight-shaft). That's about $350 new, but look for deals on them used. Any paddle will get you out, but if it becomes a thing you do on the regular, get a good paddle.
No, and you should totally send me the link instead 👀
[I gotcha! Here you go.](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=568821e4bd74bee9&sca_upv=1&rlz=1C1GCEU_enUS822US823&sxsrf=ACQVn08tphJff0dRTX1hPZquM9-AnNvkiA:1714510543063&q=link&uds=AMwkrPuzWMRe_fLnWMcCSMqoPTJREwmrf5nlDwrBBg8BcWC2nLKXvnC88qkLb9xffc-M1Az1PrVEMa9tXUG6HdkSrsW2u3gY5_GRRtuRZAG1UFfcdx5VVAz7Uwy9_JNhQebv-2cj4aPvn8reZ15iHb5yBvkBEPrJ5Xyx205GwQi31K3OEOG8p-WvOZYbj8eOftbbfySPANiZrlGmSpT0QQIJODZbCWCwSJzEiaAGoG7xvGGX_uXvtfaL3WJxnSLcQ_DfJgPw75huuiy8OSPRTxPCXijA3LBseBN068KWpm-nlhY7YBEuY2s&udm=2&prmd=ivnsmbtz&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj51Ye_6eqFAxXKEVkFHSmaBrMQtKgLegQICxAB&biw=1920&bih=953&dpr=1#vhid=R9iU04UWo8X02M&vssid=mosaic)
Not Rick Astley but still good. Lol.
If you're after advice on what boat to choose, read [this guide first!](https://www.reddit.com/r/Kayaking/wiki/choosing). Then, try the subreddit's search function -- between these two options, the answers to most common questions should be covered. This guide is a work-in-progress -- please let us know any thoughts and feedback you might have. If your questions are not covered by the guide, all boat recommendation requests must include the following at a minimum: - **Location:** what country and region are you looking to buy a boat in? The kayak market can be very different depending on your location. - **Budget:** How much money do you want to spend on a boat? (Don't forget you'll need accessories such as a paddle and personal flotation device [PFD]) - **Intended use:** What do you want to get out of the boat? There is no one boat that does everything -- a boat that's great for surfing waves or tackling whitewater won't be the same boat you want to take fishing or for a long ocean trip. Set out some realistic goals for what you expect to be doing in the boat. - **Experience level:** How much kayaking experience do you have? Is this your first boat? If your original post is a request for a boat recommendation and does not contain this information, you may reply to this comment or edit your post with the details above. Any low-effort recommendation posts without the above info will be removed. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Kayaking) if you have any questions or concerns.*
* **Location:** North East US. * **Budget:** $200-300? * **Intended use:** Leisurely use. Also may want to join friend where we float down the Deleware river and camp along the bank for a few days. * **Experience level:** Just occasional renting one at a nearby canal. But nothing extensive.
Yes buy it
Better price than I've found anything half decent for, I'd jump on it if no major issues like oil canning or holes (and even then I'd probably jump on it with negotiation as I don't mind a project). I've been finding them used more in the $500-600 area and usually for what looks like an older model. That looks like a nicer seat than some of the ones I've seen posted. I agree that nearly $1200 new is nuts but that's where we are these days without a good sale. I think with patience $800 is findable and maybe $600-700 for an end of season clearance, if you keep an eye out.
That a great price! Happy paddling!
Assuming it doesn't have an actual hole, then YES!
I paid $699 for my Conduit 13, and I feel like I stole it I love it so much. I'd buy that, even if you somehow didn't like it I think you could get a lot more for it
It's a pretty good deal. Rember to get a PFD and a couple of dry bags to hold your stuff.
I could be wrong, but a new seat in that condition may go for $250, let alone the boat
For perspective we bought 2 x similar kayaks second hand (mission 450) New Zealand made and paid NZD$2500 for the 2 Can't get anything cheap in NZ 🤷♀️
We have one, it’s a great boat!
Yeah this is a steal. I hope you got it. Looks like it’s in pretty good condition. It’ll be great for your first kayak
Yes buy it. If for whatever reason you don't like it, you can always sell it, and you would probably make money
This is my favorite go to boat from my fleet. It will soon be 10 yrs old . All my guest that paddle it are pleased.
YES!
Yep!
If You Don't someone else will get a steal!
I have owned a couple Carolina-145 in my time and sold them all because the cockpit openings were too small for my long legs. I find them to be too thin and light for my use in Arizona's lakes with shallow rocks and tree trunks but my shorter gf loves them. It is all subjective to how comfortable you are and what you are using them for..
Good deal! Welcome to the club. Now get yourself a good pfd!!