Of the main tools available to the modern explorer, the kayak is the best choice for a very small percentage in terms of sheer geographic area. However, that small percentage contains some of the most amazing scenery available on planet earth. Sure, sailboats can cover lots of water, but comparatively, crossing a big, empty ocean with nothing but big, empty ocean in all directions is often just a means to an end.

Throughout human existence, humans have apparently been drawn to water. Yet if we think about it, people are drawn to areas where water and land coalesce. The romantic stereotype is an island paradise, not a barge floating haphazardly on the seas. The valuable real estate is the riverfront property and the oceanfront property, not the 1000 surface acres of water 379 miles SSW off the coast.

It’s in these areas where water and land come together that the kayak excels. Much of the land at these intersections is difficult (at best) to traverse. Travel by foot is often prohibitively slow and the trails required for mountain bikes are often non-existent.

For our purposes, not all kayaks will do. Very few meet the requirements of our manifesto. Kayaks have a tendency to be unbearably bulky. Not only are specialized boats required for varied conditions, but specialized vehicular attachments are required to transport them.

The industry has come up with options. The foldable kayak and the inflatable kayak largely solve the transportation issue. Unfortunately, they typically sacrifice stability, durability, maneuverability, speed, and/or increase in weight to achieve portable status.

Sail To Trail’s hardest task may be tracking down the ultimate kayak to integrate with our mission of a collection of compatible tools for exploration and adventure.