The Aquanaut RM is based on, but slightly different from the composite Aquanaut. It is a fast, good-tracking, plastic kayak with all the outfitting you would expect on a fiberglass sea kayak. It's longer than the Avocet RM, which gives the Aquanaut RM extra speed, but less maneuverability (always a trade off). It is shorter than the composite Aquanaut (17' vs 17' 8") and has a slightly different hull shape making the Aquanaut RM slower then the composite version, but faster then the Avocet. The hull remains wider further forward and aft than the Avocet allowing larger feet, but also reducing the overall speed. Like the Aquanaut and Avocet the Aquanaut RM has great secondary stability, allowing it to turn easy with a slight edge.

The new adjustable thigh braces are a great step in the right direction for Valley. It is also the first Valley single kayak to come standard ready for a rudder. While we understand that the market must be demanding this, we don't see the need for a rudder on a boat that handles so well and has a skeg. If someone does not have the skills needed to paddle this kayak without a rudder, buy a different kayak. In reality if the runner is not installed it makes no difference. Call us old timers.

Valley now uses a three layer plastic, giving their boats a stiffer hull which translates to more speed and less hull deformation. As with any three part plastic, the outer layer is thin allowing small dents and requiring a bit more care. The bottom line is that the Aquanaut RM is fast for a plastic kayak, fits larger paddlers than the Avocet and might replace the Avocet RM as the closest plastic kayak to being a perfect sea kayak.

Valley Sea Kayaks says: The Aquanaut RM is the plastic version of the popular composite Aquanaut. This is a high performance expedition kayak allowing for a generous amount of gear and fits a medium to large size paddler (170-210 lbs). The kayak is equipped with three watertight VCP hatches, three integral bulkheads, cable operated retractable skeg system, deck lines and bungees (installed using recessed deck fittings), compass recess accommodating Brunton 70P, a wide comfortable backstrap, as well as Yakima footbraces and adjustable thigh braces. The kayak is built with a standard keyhole cockpit. The integrity of bulkheads and hatches is guaranteed for life by the manufacturer for the first owner of the kayak.

Download Aquanaut RM High Quality Data Sheet PDF (152KB)

Download Aquanaut RM Low Quality Data Sheet PDF (104KB)

Aquanaut RM Standard Equipment

Polyethylene construction

Retractable Skeg

Three Watertight welded bulkheads

Watertight VCP hatches (round 7.5" and two oval 16 x 9")

Recessed deck fittings

Deck lines and bungee cords

Compass recess

Yakima foot braces

Dimensions: 17' long and 21.5" wide

Weight: 59 lbs.

Key Hole Cockpit 29.5" x 16"

2007 MSRP: with Skeg $1,725

Aquanaut RM Optional Equipment

Silva 70 P Compass

Compass Light

Contact us for more information on the Aquanaut RM or any Valley Sea Kayak or Accessory.

Images courtesy of Valley Sea Kayaks