The Vela is for 90-150 lb paddler. Best for beginners between 90-110 lb; otherwise better for intermediate paddlers. The hull is a shallow arc hull shape; flared hard chine. The Vela is quick and fun to paddle. The new seat is lower than previous models, so lack of depth at thigh hooks should not be the problem it has been for some. For the smaller paddler who has decent skills or plan to develop them, the Vela should be paddled before making a new boat decision. The performance boat for the smaller paddler. Will appeal to kayakers that fit Impex Mystic, Wilderness Systems Tchaika, NDK Romany LV but the Vela carries it's speed better, is set up for expeditions and allows the smaller paddler to keep up with the full size boats. Does not have a compass recess.

User Input: It's a shame I’m too big for this boat, but it is very, very sweet! Sheer fun to paddle. It’s very responsive, edges and rolls like a dream, turns on a dime. BV

P&H Kayaks says: The Vela has been designed for the smaller, lighter paddler requiring a quick sea kayak with at least a reasonable degree of stability. With a beam of 54cm (21 1/4") it is in the width band of the faster kayaks and the innovative hard chined, light convex curved hull provides the maximum possible stability for a kayak of this beam. With a length of 4m 80cm (15' 9") the kayak is more manageable both on and off the water.

Download P&H Vela Data Sheet PDF (High Quality 240KB)

Download P&H Vela Data Sheet PDF (Low Quality 87KB)

P&H Capella Vela Specification

Material: 

Fiberglass or Carbon Kevlar

Standard Equipment

Three Watertight bulkheads

Day Hatch

Recessed deck fittings

Full deck lines and bungee cords

Compass recess

Adjustable Thigh Braces

Adjustable Footrest

Retractable Skeg

Ratchet Adjustable Backrest

Optional Extras

Compac 50 Pump

Rudder

Customized positions of bulkheads

Keel Strip

Custom Reinforcement

Silva 70 P Compass

Knee Tube

Available Colors

Signal Red

Yellow

Anchusa Blue

Orange

White

Standard with white hull and black trim

Specifications

Length: 15', 8"

Width: 21.25"

Max Deck Height: 13"

Total Volume 72.7 gal

Optimum load range (approx) 99 - 196 lbs.

Cockpit

Length: 28.3"

Width: 15"

Hatches

Front (Kayaksport 9.5" diameter)

Day (Kayaksport 7" diameter)

Rear (Kayaksport 16" by 9" )

Weight*

Fiberglass: 52 Lbs.

Carbon Kevlar 48 Lbs.

* approximate weight

2006 MSRP

Fiberglass with Skeg $2,699

Carbon Kevlar with Skeg $3,499

Contact us for more information on the Vela or any P&H Kayak.

Images courtesy of P&H Kayaks