The new Frej in production – and in the water!
Thursday, July 9, 2015, 17 comments
Yesterday I had the opportunity to test drive the new Frej, that I showed here back in March. The first eight kayaks were delivered by boatbuilder Martin from Latvia, and were assembled in the workshop at Kano- og kajakvœrkstedet in Denmark – seats, skegs and deck lines were installed, and logo stickers attached. Every step was discussed and agreed upon this first time and noted as future reference for the builder.
Martin had done a fantastic job with the finish and structural quality. The finished kayak (standard version in fiberglass) weighs 21 kg, slightly less than anticipated. There was nothing to criticize or question (except the footrest rail that might be moved a couple of cm forward to accommodate even very tall paddlers). Those first eight were white/white (looking very nice), but later alternative deck colors will be available – one gray and one bluish. We also agreed on omitting the fancy deck stickers that were contemplated earlier – the overall shape and the finish were strong enough identifying statements.
The long-awaited test drive was every bit as good as I had hoped. I sat comfortably and enjoyed every stroke. The kayak accelerated quickly, felt fast and very easily maneuvered. The rolls and braces I tried were easy and smooth. The first kayak was sold minutes after being unwrapped and assembled! The other will be available for testing at Kano- og kajakvœrkstedet in Denmark and at Petruskajak in Sweden (and soon at Kajakboden in Pargas, Finland).
Eight new kayaks will arrive within the next two weeks and then there will be continuous shipments. The price will be approx 19000 Danish or approx 23000 Swedish Kronor (approx EUR 2450 or $2700 with today's rate).
Petrus shows boatbuilder Martin some traditional sailor's ropeworks
...resulting in these handles
Long hours in the workshop
The new Frej hits water for the first time
Fast and agile...
Back to the float for a short report
Even handrolling was easy – but I had the paddle handy, should I miss
Preliminary deck colors (besides white): Steel and Ocean
