Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks Instruction and Owner's Manual
Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks Instruction and Owner's Manual
Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks Instruction and Owner's Manual
September 2012
Sea Eagle Guarantee
Congratulations on purchasing a Sea Eagle! With over 40 years of experience in designing , selling and using these quality
inflatables, we're confident that you are going to love your Sea Eagle and we're ready to proudly stand behind them.
Sea Eagle must inspect equipment in order to determine if there is a defect. In the event that an item must be shipped
back to us for inspection, Sea Eagle will only reimburse the standard return shipping charge through FedEx, UPS or the
U.S. Post Office at published shipping rates . Retail shipping outlets like The UPS Store will not be reimbursed and you will
be responsible for handling and packing charges.
The Sea Eagle warranty does not apply to products that are manufactured by Minn Kata or Torqeedo. These products are
covered by their own , respective warranties. Please refer to the manufacturer's warranty of each product for details.
If you received an item damaged, please call the shipping carrier to report damaged merchandise. Do not return damaged
merchandise until it has been inspected by the carrier. Sea Eagle will be notified by the carrier when they have completed
their inspection and if necessary, Sea Eagle will arrange for the repair or replacement of damaged merchandise.
Registered boats generally require for the registration number to be applied to the boat. We do not recommend the use of
decals or stickers as they tend to crack and peel over time with the repeated inflation and deflation of your Sea Eagle.
Instead we suggest applying these numbers to a small piece of hard plastic or marine plywood and hanging it from your
boat like a license plate if permitted by your state. Another method is to apply the numbers to the hull using either PVC
based paint or permanent marker.
* Please note that our Sea Eagle Explorer Kayaks, FastTrack Kayaks, Sport Kayaks and LB-11 LongBoard are not
rated for use with a motor.
Contact Us
Unlike many other companies today we pride ourselves on answering the phone and helping you with any concerns,
questions or special ordering needs that you may have!
Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-748-8066 and we will be happy to talk with you!
Our business hours are Monday to Friday from 9-5 (EST).
1
Operating Your Sea Eagle
Lake & Stream Paddling
There are two very important points to consider before venturing out into calm, flat-water found in lakes and streams.
First, install your skeg underneath your kayak at the stern. The skeg will give you greater directional stability by reducing
the natural yaw of the kayak. Yaw is the tendency of the back of the boat to move in a zigzag pattern. Second , make sure
that your drain valves are closed and tightened properly to ensure that you have a dry trip. If the drain valves are left open
in these conditions water will come through them and fill the kayak making it harder to maneuver and getting you a_nd your
gear wet in the process.
If you're new to paddling , start off slowly and hold your paddle out in front of you with your arms as straight as possible.
Keep your eyes up and focused on the horizon and as the kayak begins to pick up speed it will maintain a true heading.
If you dig in too hard at first the kayak will tend to yaw in the water. When you're paddling with a partner (tandem), try and
coordinate your strokes so that you 're both paddling in unison. If you start to paddle out of unison, simply stop and start
again. With practice you will learn to paddle straight and reasonably fast and comfortably.
Sailing
With the addition of our Sea Eagle QuikSail (sold separately), you can also turn your Sea Eagle Kayak into a one of a kind
sailing vessel that sets up in just less than one minute . Kayak sailing enhances the paddling experience and is great for
touring and exploring. When sailing it is recommended to paddle up wind of your starting point and to sail downwind for
the final leg of your journey. The QuikSail can also be used as a hand held sail utilizing the handles located on each side.
You can adjust the position of the sail to the left or right to tack downwind by either pushing against the legs of the frame
with your feet, or by pulling the frame at the handles with your hands. Use your paddle to guide and steer your kayak.
Whitewater Rapids
Kayaking in whitewater can be a very challenging and rewarding experience, however it can also be very dangerous for
those who do not respect the power of fast moving water. It is our recommendation that anyone partaking in whitewater
activities should be certain they are a strong swimmer and also enroll in one of the excellent water safety course provided
by your local Auxiliary Coast Guard or Power Squadron.
There are six classes of whitewater difficulty ranging from class I (easy) to class VI (extremely dangerous). Sea Eagle
Sport Kayaks are rated for use in up to class Ill (intermediate) whitewater. Please note that class Ill rapids should not be
attempted by beginners as the conditions can get dangerous if you are not experienced.
It is very important to learn as much about a river as you can before you go down it and be prepared and ready to deal
with any changing conditions or dangers that might arise. When using your Sea Eagle in whitewater conditions it is impor-
tant to make sure that the drain valves. are opened before venturing out to ensure that any water taken on can be released
through the drain valve .
In addition to the equipment listed in this manual's Safety section, we strongly recommend the use of a helmet, gloves
and rescue throw lines/ropes when partaking in whitewater activities.
A great source of background information for the topic of whitewater as well as various paddling techniques is
Cecil Kuhne's Inflatable Kayaking (ISBN 0-8117-2810-2). We strongly recommend this and other related reading materials
to better educate yourself with whitewater kayaking.
2
Safety
In a manual of this type it is impossible to give adequate space to the topic of water safety. For further information on
boating safety, visit USCGBoating.org or enroll in one of the excellent water safety courses provided .
It is your responsibility to be aware of and comply with all relevant safety regulations. For all water recreation or sport you
should have a reasonable swimming ability. Just as swimmers have a cardinal rule about not swimming alone, it is
strongly advised that you should never go boating alone.
Safety Equipment
The type of water conditions you are on should determine the type of safety equipment that you should have on board.
For all types of boating we strongly recommend that every passenger wear a USCG approved PFD (personal flotation de-
vice) like a life vest. In most places this is a requirement by law, but from our point of view it is also an exercise of good
judgment to have a PFD for all passengers. Other important items to consider for all types of boating ...
Drinking Water & Snacks: Kayaking is a physical activity that can work up both a thirst and a sweat and especially on a
hot or warm day it is a good idea to have drinkin g water readily available to you to prevent dehydration. Bring a good
amount of water for all passengers as you want to avoid drinking the water you're kayaking in which may be full of con-
taminants.
Extra Clothes/Layers: You never know when the weather can change and it's a good idea to come prepared with extra
clothing. If you have a dry (waterproof) bag than we recommend storing them inside so they're not damp in case of emer-
gency.
First Aid-Kit: The contents of the kit may vary depending upon your preferences, but make sure to carry a kit that reflects
the possible dangers for the conditions you are in.
Foot Pump/Repair Kit: Although our boats are both durable and rugged, it may be possible that you need to make a repair
while on the water in which case you'll need the repair kit and the foot pump to re-inflate the boat. If this is your first repair,
you may also want to bring this instruction manual with you.
Sun/Rain Protection: A hat can protect both your face and head from the rain or sun. You may also want to carry sun-
screen with you as both the sun and the sun's reflection from the water can do serious damage to your skin . If you are out
for prolonged periods of time you may need to reapply sunscreen as needed .
Whistle: Having a whistle readily available to you in case of emergency is a great way to attract the attention of others if
assistance is needed .
3
Inflation Valves & Pumps
One-Way Air Valve MB-80 (OPTIONAL)
Place the retainer ring This electric pump
over the valve base and works using the 12V
screw the valve into the power outlet in your car.
base. Unscrew the Please note that the
outer cap on the valve star shaped valve
to reveal the inflation adapters and deflation
port. cap are not necessary
for Sea Eagle boats.
4
Assembly & Inflation
To begin unroll your SEC Inflatable Seat
boat on a clean, flat The SEC seat inflates
surface. Locate the using two deluxe one-
three main air chambers
in the stern and screw
the deluxe one-way air
( way air valves. Once
the seat is inflated you
can simply place inside
valves to them. Make of the boat. The seat is
sure not to cross the held in place by the
threads when screwing weight of the user and
in the valve to the base the pressure from the
or when tightening the surrounding tubes.
outer cap.
5
Accessories (OPTIONAL)
4-Part Paddle Optional Accessories
Each paddle includes •iiiiiilt;;; (OPTIONAL)
two shafts, two blades
and 2 drip guards.
Its important to follow
the directions exactly as
~&~ra We offer a wide variety
of accessories and
some accessories may
be considered optional
, ., J
assembling the paddles
incorrectly may leave
you with an inoperable
paddle that cannot be
disassembled .
)~ ) .L ~1
·~ '
i/
w~
if they were not included
with the package that
you purchased.
\f
push pin on the other a sailing vessel. Easily
shaft, join the two shafts deploys in under one
together so that the 3 minute, breaks down to
pre-drilled holes now just 43" for convenient
form the middle of the
paddle. ~-;·t_~:=~-
_~ - ~ J . .
storage in the bow or
stern and sails up to 45°
left or right. Comes
complete w/separate
instruction manual.
~
end of each shaft to using the foot pump and
complete assembly. r. cone shaped adapter
from the triple nozzle.
6
EZ Cart S (small) Before using on the
(OPTIONAL) water, make sure that
This easy to assemble you have triple folded
cart wheel system fits your waterproof bag
allows you to roll your and that it is tight and
kayak from where you secure. Do not roll your
inflate to where you bag.
---•~..., ~
bag will hold your cell type Ill PFD is designed
phone, camera or any specifically for paddling
other small article you and rowing comfort with
want to stay dry. more room under the
arms. Comes in various
sizes and features vest
pocket, zipper closure
and adjustable nylon
straps for a secure fit.
7
Deflation & Storage Troubleshooting
Although PVC material can become brittle in extremely cold If your boat is losing air it doesn't necessarily mean that
temperatures, you can still safely store your Sea Eagle in its leaking . For instance a boat that is inflated late in the
them so long as you avoid dropping it and do not subject it day with 90° air may cool 20° overnight.
to any sudden impacts.
The cooler air will exert less pressure on the hull and the
If you're planning to leave your Sea Eagle outside, be sure boat will appear softer the next morning. When there has
to keep it raised up off of the ground. Its also a good idea to been no variation in temperature and your boat is losing air
keep it covered so that it is not directly exposed to berries, then it is time to start looking for the leak.
leaves, rain, sunlight and other elements. Sea Eagles that
are left in water will most likely have to be emptied from The first thing you should do when looking for a leak is to
time to time . actually look at the boat. Visually inspect the boat from a
few feet away and if necessary, flip it over and closely
Make sure that your boat is dry before storing your kayak check the outside. Any large leaks when your boat looses a
for more than a few days, to remove any excess moisture considerable amount of air should be clearly visible.
that could cause unsightly mildew. Choose a cool, dry spot
when storing in an enclosed area like basement, closet or Be sure to check the tightness of the one-way recessed
garage. valves as well and if necessary, tighten them with the valve
wrench included in the orange repair kit canister.
Begin by deflating your
kayak. To deflate, un- If you have a rough idea of where your leak is but can 't see
screw the valves from it, you may want to try listening for it as you may be able to
the base. Most of the air hear the air escaping and pinpoint the leak.
is immediately released .
Excess air can be Other troubleshooting techniques you can try to locate the
pushed out as you leak is to dowse/spray a mix of dishwashing liquid over
rollup the kayak. suspicious areas. The leak may produce bubbles that will
pinpoint the location of the leak.
Crossed Threads
Make sure that both the
inner valve and the
Allow about a minute or outer cap are firmly
two so that more air can screwed together. If
be released and then threads are crossed on
from the stern, begin by either item a slow leak
rolling one side of the could result. A good way
kayak toward the center to avoid this is to first
and the other side of the turn the outer cap back
kayak over the first. 1/4turn.
Denting
Check the 0-Ring base
for dents. Denting can
Starting from the bow, occur when the valve
roll the kayak up. It is body lies across the
important to roll the boat 0-Ring during storage.
tight from the beginning Heat the 0-Ring with a
to ensure you get the hairdryer for about a
most compact storage minute or so until the
possible. When you dent eases itself out.
reach the end, tuck the 0--Ring Dent
bow into the hull and
place the skeg protec-
tors on the skegs.
8
Diaphragm Check Repair Kit
Check the black di- All Sea Eagles come
aphragm at the bottom standard with a repair
of the inner valve for kit which includes two
grains between the di- material patches and
aphragm and th e inner tubes of PVC based
valve. Also check the glue.
threads on the inner
valve, boat hull , and
outer cap for any dirt or
sand which might break
the seal.
9
Repair: Patching Place the patch on the
Leaks that are larger damaged area and
than a pinhole can be press down firmly. Let
patched. Most patches the glue sit for 2-4 min-
can be done in a few utes until it appears
minutes, but we do offer tacky. If glue does not
a repair service for hold , heat patch with a
more complex jobs out hair dryer.
of warranty.
0
DO NOT use a hair
approximately 1/2". dryer on an inflated boat
Angle the pen inward a and NEVER use a heat
bit so that the ink will be gun on your boat.
covered by the patch
--- later.
10
2-Part Adhesive
The adhesive that
comes standard in your
repair kit works for most
repairs and installations,
but for more detailed
and extensive repair we
recommend a 2-part
PVC adhesive.
11
Manufacturer's Statement of Origin Boat description
The manufacturer further certifies that this was the first transfer of said new boat in ordinary trade and commerce, and that all information
given herein is true and accurate to the best of his knowled ge.
Name of manufacturer: Sea Eagle Boats, Inc. 19 North Columbia St., Suite 1, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
~ C- ~ , J'("
Authorized by:
--------
q
President
To _ _ _ _ _ _ -,,«irne_ _ _ _ _ __ To _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Name Name
Address Address
and certifies that the boat is new and has hot been registered in this or any and certifies that the boat is new and has hot been registered in this or any
other states; he also warrants the title of said boat at time of delivery, subject other states; he also warrants the title of said boat at time of delivery, subject
to the liens and encumbrances, _if any, as set out below: to the liens and encumbrances, if any, as set out below:
Dated to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Dated to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Suscribed and sworn to before me this the ___ day of _ _ _ __ Suscribed and sworn to before me this the ___ day of _ _ _ __
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ , Notary Public. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ , Notary Public.
seal Seal
The manufacturer further certifies that this was the first transfer of said new boat in ordinary trade and commerce, and that all information
given herein is true and accurate to the best of his knowled ge.
Name of manufacturer: Sea Eagle Boats, Inc. 19 North Columbia St., Suite 1, Port Jefferson, NY 11 777
~ C · H,o.q<:, Jy-
Authorized by:
---------
q
President
To _ _ _ _ _ _-,,"iiirne_ _ _ _ _ __ To _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Nome Name
Address Address
and certifies that the boat is new and has hot been registered in this or any and certifies that the boat is new and has hot been registered in this or any
other states; he also warrants the title of said boat at time of del ivery, subject other states; he also warrants the title of said boat at time of del ivery, subject
to the liens and encumbrances, _if any, as set out below: to the liens and encumbrances, if any, as set out below:
Dated to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Dated to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
- - - - -Transferor
~ -(Firm -- - - - - - by - - - - ------- - - - -Transferor
- - (Firm -- - - - - by -----,,,..-,-~----
name) Sign here Position
nome) Sign here Position
Suscribed and sworn to before me this the ___ day of _ _ _ _ __ Suscribed and sworn to before me this the ___ day of _ _ _ __
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ , Notary Public. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ , Notary Public.
seal Seal
4. You do not need to fill out the first or second assignment unless
you resell your boat.