I'm starting my second season with an Isle au Haut, and I am in heaven. I paddle nearly every day out and around Vinalhaven, in Penobscot Bay, and this boat earns its name. In calm conditions it glides quickly and responds very nimbly. In heavy swells (yesterday off Heron Light) she feels very light but (once you learn to trust it) very stable through the rise and fall. Last week I took her through some breakers crashing over a ledge on a rising tide, and what a thrill. Like riding a butterfly in the wind. Managed to rip everything off the deck (water bottle, cell phone sack, etc.) in one large wave that crashed over my head, but the boat just cut right through and stayed on track. No regrets.

Although I am new to the boat, I am extremely happy with it. The Isle au Haut is light and easily carried, tracks well (no more weather cocking), moves nicely in the water, and has very comfortable seat with back brace. I had been waiting for this boat for years, and I am happy that Lincoln redesigned the earlier version to have a bit more leg room and a more comfortable seat. No more looking (or buying and then selling boats). . . I have found my kayak.