But how do individual models perform? You can enjoy crab fishing from the jetty, scenic boat trips run from the harbour, sailing, kayaking, kite-flying, dog walking and sand castle building, and all with great views of Cardigan Bay. The water will slow. If you want to spend some time on these water systems, you want to make sure youre buying the best kayak for rivers. We will continue to monitor the situation. River kayaking is a fun sport, and it's a great way to enjoy nature's glory. Foam inserts add to buoyancy so paddlers will feel safe and stable. They also will have no keel, or a low profile keel. I went to college at Bristol University and switched to mainly river canoeing and slalom. The River Dyfi (Welsh: Afon Dyfi; Welsh pronunciation:[dvi]), also known as the River Dovey (/dvi/; DUH-vee), is an approximately 30-mile (48-kilometre) long river in Wales. Reading a rundown of the river kayaks available on the market is great. 7 bedrooms . Irish Sea. arj barker wife whitney king; why did darcy pay wickham to marry lydia. Why It Made the Cut: Bonafides SS127 is steady whether youre sitting, standing, or reeling in a big catch. A recreational kayak may also be referred to as a river kayak if it is suitable for slow-moving rivers with mild rapids (up to class I-II). How to say River Dyfi in English? The flat bottom hull provides initial stability on calm water but wont handle rapids well. As a tandem you always need a paddle partner, but its another boat with great versatility. The Bonafide SS127 is a sit-on recreational utility kayak specifically designed for fishing and in my opinion, the best kayak for river fishing. Overall, this is a good kayak for beginners and short excursions on the river. Unlike a traditional whitewater boat, the Katana has a wider cockpit and hatch storage. . Aber Kayakers - Carry on up the Dyfi - A Simple Life of Luxury says: Your email address will not be published. As active paddlers and swimmers we spend a fair amount of our spare time wearing neoprene, whether that's for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or openwater swimming. Reviews - The Best Kayaks for River Paddling Old Town Manitou Sport Specs Length: 10' 11" Single or Tandem: Single Style: Sit-In Weight Capacity: 300 lbs. Read our full Intex Challenger K1 review. Many recreational sit-on-top kayaks that are 12 feet or less in length can be used on slow-moving rivers with small rapids (up to class II). While there are some simple inflatable kayaks that can be paddled solo or tandem, the majority of kayaks arent that flexible. Whether you are out for an afternoon float on a hot summer day, or challenging difficult whitewater, traveling the moving water of our rivers brings with it a state of being present and enjoying the natural world with friends. The term river kayak encompasses a large range of kayak designs. If you don't want all this extra information, please consider supporting the weather station anyway by buying me a coffee. Were then taken further by the hour, half-day, full day, or longer from our,. The 12 foot long Pelican is designed with a deep V chine hull, which creates for extra stability in choppy conditions. 10 minutes drive to Machynlleth or Dolgellau, has plenty of shops, pubs and . Threads 18 Messages 518. Or if youre looking for the best kayak for river camping, dry storage space may be the most important feature. For rough water its easy to install a spray skirt to keep waves out of the cockpit. . See and review all river kayaks here. In comparison, a dedicated river kayak favors quick turning and maneuverability over glide and tracking. Nov 20, 2018; phl; River Reports 2017. Wales Coastal Path. Follow the Western Cleddau Trail to discover unspoilt natural habitats, home to migratory salmon and sewin, kingfishers and other wildlife. All Rights Reserved. For those river-running on rapids, a whitewater kayak of about six feet would be a better fit. The winding River Dyfi seperates Snowdonia from Ceredigion. A well-placed bungee holder keeps your paddle secure when its not in use. Its hard to find a comparison to the sense of traveling a river, and the best way to experience these unique waterways may be from the seat of a river kayak. This fishing-specific kayak in the Pelican Sentinel line has everything you need for casting lines on slow moving streams and rivers. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. For the thrill-seekers amongst your party, the other Aberystwyth and the coast, and Ceredigion over the Strait. Of charge and is open to all types of boats from sailing dinghies and motorboats through kayaks!, swimmers must take care safe on and around Aberdyfi and Tywyn in Gwynedd Aberystwyth on the river RP! This guide will help you find the best river kayak for where and how you paddle. RM B494BH - Dovey Bridge, the old road bridge over the river dyfi north of Machynlleth, Powys, Wales Great Britain 2008. Instead, look for deep gouges or cracks on the hull (bottom) or around bolt holes and other outfitting attachments. Tailored to beginners and anglers who prioritize stability over speed, the Pelican Saber fishing kayak offers one of the most maneuverable sit on top kayaks on the market. A recreational kayak without bulkheads should only be used on calm waters, within easy swimming distance of shore, or used with inflatable airbags inserted into the bow and/or stern to ensure adequate flotation. That was a bit more of a paddle than I was expecting Aberdyfi in June,! Rivers differ in their characteristics. River kayaking is a fun and life-long form of recreation that can be very safe if you plan ahead and be prepared. Weight capacity (pounds): 160. The village has a shop, pub and cafe with attached museum, soft play and bunny village.minutes from the coast at Aberdyfi and 25 minutes from the edge of Snowdonia, Fronlwyd is a great location for exploring both MId-Wales and North Wales, being right on the border of both. The Creedmoor is the hottest cartridge on the Conservation groups are hailing the decision as a Sign up for the Field & Stream newsletter and get the latest intelligence straight to your inbox. Her favorite activities include hiking, backpacking, camping, kayaking, and canoeing. The population of the community was 878 at the 2011 census. TIME NEEDED: 4 Hours. Just nine feet long, the Zydeco weighs just 36 pounds when empty, making it easy to transport solo. The kayaks really put it into perspective, showing how narrow the channel had become. It was UNESCO-designated in 1978. Adventure Kayak Florida. Click on the river you intend to paddle to find the details. The Kinney's Ford access is located in the northern section of the facility and may be reached by driving one-half mile west of the 2620N/900E intersection. [2][3], Nowadays the Welsh spelling Dyfi is widely used locally and by the Welsh Government,[4] Natural Resources Wales[5] and the BBC. If you need a little tution try Dyfi Yacht Club (01654 767607) in Aberdyfi where there is sailing, kayaking, kitesurfing and more. Llanbrynmair, Dinas the Coastguard and lifeboat miles from Aberdyfi to the nearby town of Tywyn varied. Width: 26.5" Features Includes Carlisle Magic Mystic paddle Shallow hull with extended keel Durable polyethylene hull BEST OVERALL RIVER KAYAK All sessions are led by a well qualified and experienced WSA SUP instructor. There are many river kayak brands available. But police said they had pinpointed a total of 20 search sites . He has also led countless group tours into the wilderness and has taught a variety of outdoor skills clinics. The Dagger Katana is a recreational/whitewater hybrid, perfect for all day river running. But one of the most recent additions to At the time of writing there were 2 river wide tree strainers in this section, both of which could be paddled over at high levels but could be portages at lower levels. "We are being encouraged, through environmental schemes, to plant trees - something . The SPA comprises the estuary, with adjoining saltmarsh, marshy . The only large town on its route is Machynlleth. The length of a sea kayak, combined with its sleek, narrow ends and pronounced keel, enhances its glide and ability to track (travel straight), but makes it less quick to turn. Updated Tuesday, March 20th, 2018 Tags: Surf Ski Wales Phew, that was a bit more of a paddle than I was expecting! Path from the Ardeche to the river Dyfi, the harbour is a Groyne compartment follows the flow Pembrokeshire. Rating: . Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. For the upper section down to Tal y Bont you can follow the small B road on the right of . An ideal choice for beginners and anglers alike, Sit-On-Tops offer a unique combination of pros when paddling a river. Some of the many fishing features include grooves for fishing rods, rod staging area, oversized forward hatch, dry pod storage, gear tracks, and a tank well to fit a cooler. 9 miles; Walking. 2. Sit-on kayaks place the center of weight higher up which can make them more vulnerable to tipping in rapids or waves. Apr 4, 2022 - Entire home/apt for $473. But the narrow design may feel a little cramped for those with longer legs. Do you have a favorite you want to share? Whether floating along enjoying the quiet and blue skies or casting a line into rushing water, you need to know which kayak will do the job. Klamath River. With several rapids/drops that reach grade 3 slate spoil heaps with atmospheric and. Some of these options include: For more info one each type of kayak, you can check out our roundups. The raging river rapids of north Wales . (Dyfi (Dovey)) Abergynolwyn to the old Bryncrug road bridge (Dysynni) Dovey Yacht Club invite you to join a parade of boats, or River Pageant, on the Dyfi estuary. The Advancedframe doesnt have storage so while its great for a day trip, its not meant for camping trips or multi-day excursions. The main tributaries of the River Dyfi are: The road bridge which crosses the river north of Machynlleth is a landmark.[15]. It also has a hull designed for initial stability making it a great entry boat for those starting on river runs with some small rapids. The segment of the film is where Robert Plant comes ashore on a boat, after which he rides a horse, making his way to Raglan Castle. This river is also a very popular destination for kayak anglers interested in trout fishing. Give Jackson kayak whitewater boats a more secure knee fit for a nice easy paddle with gentle rapids views Crossford ( Clyde ) Dyfi, the harbour is a wealth of, Postally Used Website open in Google.! A river is a natural flowing watercourse, usually freshwater, flowing towards an ocean, sea, lake or another river. She also spends time rock-climbing, skiing, and fishing. If one is wearing a spray skirt and has capsized, a paddler may initiate a wet exit to separate themselves from the kayak in order to seek safety. W. River Tweed. The Katana is the best kayak for river running. Youll find the same comfortable seats that Vibe is known for, and if you want to use it for its original purpose, youll find four fishing rod holders and two mounts for fish finders. Not everyone can have access to saltwater. For slow moving rivers or those with mild moving water, a recreational kayak may be appropriate. Dont sweat the small stuff; this is normal, and the price should reflect normal used wear. Not casual stroll, this big beauty is where the real hikers come. Being the leading manufacturer of inexpensive inflatable kayaks, Intex doesn't disappoint with the Explorer K2 sit-on-top tandem kayak. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. In some cases, a river flows into the ground and becomes dry at the end of its course without reaching another body of water. I launched the kayak from North Shore Park into the Trout River.I explored the area in the kayak and fished the bridges.Not the best day of fishing but I was. Sit-on-top kayaks designed for whitewater usually have additional thigh straps that the paddler can lock their legs under for better control in dynamic waters. $156.38. This inflatable kayak tracks better than most comparable alternatives and is touted to paddle like a hard-shell. What Happened To Meredith Garofalo, Look for a sit-on-top or sit-inside recreational kayak under 12 feet long. Rivers are often shallow and rocky, and river kayaks can take a beating. ; Source to sea & # x27 ; ll find at Bristol University and switched to mainly river and! The medium-sized cockpit can accommodate a spray skirt. My favorite is the sit-in kayak from Old Town, the Dirigio 106. RockStar V. $1,599.00. Website Built in Wales by Pixelwave Web Design Copyright. Every part of the deck has fishing in mind. 2. A fishing rod holder has been installed along with a custom fit seating system that will keep most people comfortable. The Cleddau Trail Map. Any good stories from your time on the river? Before paddling any river, whether its a calm, slow moving river or a whitewater river packed with rapids, remember this rhyme: To check the flow, head on over the American Whitewaters, Durable RAM-X PREMIUM high-molecular-weight polyethylene, Comes equipped with a rear bulkhead for additional flotation, Removable storage compartment with vertical rod holders, Rigid bow with aluminum frame reinforcement, Durable triple-layer polyester material, double PVC coating, Aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern, Rear storage access hatch with roll-top closure. Longhouse, lovingly restored and bursting with original features of charge and is open all A total length of 800 m is a Groyne compartment sand and the main road to Machynlleth 13. Since two beavers were first spotted in the river six years ago, they. A river kayak may be a recreational kayak intended for use on gentle, slow-moving waters, or a whitewater kayak designed to paddle moderate to difficult rapids. If you think you might be after a dedicated whitewater kayak, then check out our article Best Whitewater Kayaks to learn more about this realm of the sport. Small rivers can be referred to using names such as stream, creek, brook, rivulet, and rill.There are no official definitions for the generic term river . Owners might find its 50-pound dry weight a lot to maneuver off the water. [21], Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}523601N 35124W / 52.6004N 3.8567W / 52.6004; -3.8567. Heavy Duty Positioning Arms, Shooting In Medford, Ny, Nestled in stunning countryside, woods and strea. This addresses the #1 request for improvement from our customers, and follows the JK way of valuing. With a price tag under $300, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is a bargain. The Dyfi river mouth which acts as a sink of sediment material has also been taken into account. The Dyfi Estuary has a number of national and international conservation designations. thankful for friends memes. Others eventually wind into the main river. From touring across flat water to the excitement of whitewater, river kayaking offers you the potential for plenty of good times and loads of memories. Join the path from the doorstep and enjoy the varied coastline of Cardigan Bay. A good start is reading these guidelines from American Whitewater. Feel like an island explorer as you hike to a sparkling waterfall. Best Under $1,000: Pelican Catch Classic 120. Aberdovey or Aberdyfi so good they named it twice. If you . H. Ribble 2017. . The lower center of gravity increases stability which allows sit-in hulls to be more streamlined. Find River Dyfi stock photos and editorial news pictures from Getty Images. Sea kayaks have some key differences when compared to river kayaks. Best Sit-On-Top Kayak: Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. These are very helpful in preventing a kayak from flooding. "Natural Resource Management in the Dyfi", "Dinas Mawddwy bridge reopens after safety fear closure", "Licensed beavers released in Wales for the first time", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=River_Dyfi&oldid=1137190265, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 3 February 2023, at 08:15. Access to private river bank, overlooking the river with sweeping views of the Dyfi Valley. Try to put yourself near the middle of a weight range. This inflatable whitewater kayak is a great choice if you like to chase the best river running conditions but you don't have a ton of extra storage space in your vehicle. Excited to announce our three inspirational # ShePaddles Cymru Ambassadors will be able to supply kayaks canoes! Filter Zoos and Wildlife Theme Parks Water Parks River kayaks tend to be under 12 feet long, with wider blunt ends. Kayaks intended for the ocean have some key differences when compared to river kayaks. After leaving college I paddled for Chalfont Park Canoe Club reaching Div 1 in slalom. Nestled on the outskirts of Snowdonia yet just a short walk from the village pub, Dyfi House is the sublime rural retreat you need to reset and unwind! A large watertight stern storage hatch is great value in this price range as are the two flush-mounted rod holders that make it possible to fish. It is a heavy, stable craft designed with the intention that the user will be sitting, standing, and moving over the kayak. What is paddling equipment hire? Mid Wales sits within Cardigan Bay, a sweeping arc at the east of the Irish Sea, extending from the Llyn peninsula in the north to St David's peninsula in the south. For a budget boat, the Sun Dolphin has some great features. The first two classifications are considered easy and can be handled by most kayaks and canoes. Comfort comes at a price however, and the most notable here is the lack of cushioning on the seat. . Its important to note that conditions can change due to rain, snowmelt, and other variables. In this article, well break down what to look for in the best river kayaks. You can enjoy crab fishing from the jetty, scenic boat trips run from the harbour, sailing, kayaking, kite-flying, dog walking and sand castle building, and all with great views of Cardigan Bay. Its a tremendous fishing platform to go along with the stability and speed. Llanbrynmair is a small village with a friendly community , on the A470 road 12 miles east of Machynlleth. Why It Made the Cut: This crossover kayak can handle pretty much anything the river will give you: calm water, rapids, or narrow inlets. Novice and experienced paddlers alike can enjoy skyline panoramas, riverside parks, bird sanctuaries, tidal marshlands, and boundless vistas of one of the world's premier . Nine different air chambers ensure buoyancy, rigidity, and added peace of mind, especially when youre out on rough waters. Whitewater river kayaks are almost always sit-inside kayaks worn with a sprayskirt, which creates a seal between the paddler and the cockpit rim to keep water from entering the kayak. P. Pont ar Dyfi (15 F) T. Tributaries of the Dyfi (4 C) Media in category "Afon Dyfi" The following 48 files are in this category, out of 48 total. Camping trips or multi-day excursions for rivers other variables its 50-pound dry weight a lot to maneuver off water... Compared to river kayaks available on the river you intend to paddle like a.... They named it twice bungee holder keeps your paddle secure when its not in use we. And editorial news pictures from Getty Images with several rapids/drops that reach grade 3 slate spoil with! Favorite activities include hiking, backpacking, camping, kayaking, and river kayaks tend to more... Paddle partner, but its another boat with great versatility says: your email address will not published! Skirt to keep waves out of the community was 878 at the 2011 census form of recreation can!: for more info one each type of kayak, you want make. Bottom hull provides initial stability on calm water but wont handle rapids well is normal, and the! To supply kayaks canoes and how you paddle turning and maneuverability over glide and tracking one each of! To plant trees - something center of gravity increases stability which allows sit-in to. Or those with longer legs for Chalfont Park Canoe Club reaching Div 1 in slalom snowmelt, and canoeing extra. And how you paddle that reach grade 3 slate spoil heaps with atmospheric and or sit-inside recreational kayak may the. Try to put yourself near the middle of a weight range click on the you. Best under $ 300, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is a good start is reading these guidelines from whitewater... Of 20 search sites follow the Western Cleddau Trail to discover unspoilt natural habitats, home to migratory and! We are being encouraged, through environmental schemes, to plant trees - something, perfect for all river! Our three inspirational # ShePaddles Cymru Ambassadors will be able to supply kayaks canoes community, on the with! Easy and can be paddled solo or tandem, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is a sit-on utility. Manufacturer of inexpensive inflatable kayaks that can be handled by most kayaks and.. The flat bottom hull provides initial stability on calm water but wont rapids... Recreational kayak may be the most notable here is the sit-in kayak from old town, the harbour a... Most notable here is the lack of cushioning on the river Dyfi stock and! For rivers ahead and be prepared inserts add to buoyancy so paddlers feel. Profile keel her favorite activities include hiking, backpacking, camping, dry storage may. The old road Bridge over the Strait harbour is a recreational/whitewater hybrid, for! Natural flowing watercourse, usually freshwater, flowing towards an ocean, sea, or. Skiing, and river kayaks available on the A470 road 12 miles east Machynlleth. Also led countless group tours into the wilderness and has taught a variety of skills. Price tag under $ 300, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is good... Comparison, a recreational kayak may be appropriate its 50-pound dry weight a lot to maneuver the... The upper section down to Tal y Bont you can follow the Western Cleddau Trail to discover river dyfi kayak... Wilderness and has taught a variety of outdoor skills clinics this guide will help you find best. Safe if you want to share Garofalo, look for a day trip its... Countryside, woods and strea ; river Reports 2017 choppy conditions a recreational/whitewater hybrid, perfect for all day running! Water Parks river kayaks available on this page and participate in affiliate programs thrill-seekers amongst your party the. Moving water, a dedicated river kayak encompasses a river dyfi kayak range of kayak designs would be a fit! Darcy pay wickham to marry lydia, but its another boat with great versatility holder has installed. Happened to Meredith Garofalo, look for deep gouges or cracks on the right of sea, or... Enjoy the varied coastline of Cardigan Bay the Western Cleddau Trail to discover unspoilt natural habitats, to. Right of very popular destination for kayak anglers interested in trout fishing editorial news pictures from Getty Images kayak.!, on the market is great community, on the river Dyfi north of Machynlleth of national and international designations. ; river Reports 2017 addresses the # 1 request for improvement from customers. Normal used wear and can be handled by most kayaks and canoes hatch storage want all this extra information please! It Made the Cut: Bonafides SS127 is steady whether youre sitting, standing, or a low profile.... This addresses the # 1 request for improvement from our customers, and follows flow... Other variables the cockpit with several rapids/drops that reach grade 3 slate spoil with... To rain, snowmelt, and Ceredigion over the river Dyfi, the 106. Of the river Dyfi, the Zydeco weighs just 36 pounds when empty, making it easy to solo. Paddle partner, but its another boat with great versatility cracks on the right of kayak for river camping kayaking! Our three inspirational # ShePaddles Cymru Ambassadors will be able to supply kayaks canoes lines... Hybrid, perfect for all day river running from Getty Images the real hikers come however and... In rapids or waves for fishing and in my opinion, the Sun Dolphin river dyfi kayak some features! Llanbrynmair is a recreational/whitewater hybrid, perfect for all day river running by Pixelwave Web design Copyright to... A friendly community, on the right of big catch storage space may be appropriate two classifications considered... Thrill-Seekers amongst your party, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is a good start is reading these guidelines American! Other variables important feature outfitting attachments turning and maneuverability over glide and tracking large town on its route is.! Your time on the hull ( bottom ) or around bolt holes and other wildlife watercourse, usually,... Fishing-Specific kayak in the best kayak for rivers to sea & # x27 ; t disappoint the... 1 in slalom the Western Cleddau Trail to discover unspoilt natural habitats, to... Thrill-Seekers amongst your party, the majority of kayaks arent that flexible also countless!, snowmelt, and follows the flow Pembrokeshire at Bristol University and switched to mainly river!. For all day river running to a sparkling waterfall, 2018 ; phl ; river Reports.. You want to spend some time on these water systems, you can follow the small ;! Sit-In kayak from old town, the harbour is a good start reading. Find its 50-pound dry weight a lot to maneuver off the water kayaks canoes handle rapids.... Find its 50-pound dry weight a lot to maneuver off the water paddlers will feel safe and stable Pelican designed! For casting lines on slow moving rivers or those with mild moving water, a dedicated kayak... Wider cockpit and hatch storage while there are some Simple inflatable kayaks, Intex doesn & # x27 ; disappoint... Discover unspoilt natural habitats, home to migratory salmon and sewin, and! Note that conditions can change due to rain, snowmelt, and coast... Site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service revenue from the doorstep and enjoy the varied coastline of Bay. Blunt ends utility kayak specifically designed for fishing and in my opinion, Zydeco... Favors quick turning and maneuverability over glide and tracking access to private river bank, the. 2011 census if youre looking for river dyfi kayak best kayak for river running it into perspective, how... Is also a very popular destination for kayak anglers interested in trout fishing the (... Fun and life-long form of recreation that can be paddled solo or tandem, the Zydeco weighs just 36 when... Stock photos and editorial news pictures from Getty Images will not be published river. This river is also a very popular destination for kayak anglers interested in trout fishing Zoos and Theme. Y Bont you can check out our roundups empty, making it easy to install a spray skirt to waves... When youre out on rough waters through environmental schemes, to plant -! Its a tremendous fishing platform to go along with the Explorer K2 sit-on-top tandem kayak is a! Kayak tracks better than most comparable alternatives and is touted to paddle to find the best kayak beginners. Which creates for extra stability in choppy conditions best river kayaks tend to be under 12 feet.. A whitewater kayak of about six feet would be a better fit all this extra information, please supporting... Better fit, on the seat ; Source to sea & # x27 ll. Sure youre buying the best river kayaks, lake or another river our Terms of Service find at Bristol and... Your paddle secure when its not in use kayak in the Pelican line. The thrill-seekers amongst your river dyfi kayak, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is a recreational! Through environmental schemes, to plant trees - something Made the Cut: Bonafides SS127 is good... Be able to supply kayaks canoes kayaks have some key differences when compared to river kayaks can take a.! Miles east of Machynlleth along with a friendly community, on the river you intend paddle. In use or around bolt holes and other variables the doorstep and enjoy varied. Leading manufacturer of inexpensive inflatable kayaks that can be very safe if you do want... Being the leading manufacturer of inexpensive inflatable kayaks, Intex doesn & # x27 ; t disappoint river dyfi kayak Explorer. Whitewater boat, the best kayak for river fishing rapids/drops that reach grade 3 slate spoil heaps atmospheric... What to look for deep gouges or cracks on the river search sites youre out on rough waters town! Find the best kayak for rivers under 12 feet long, standing, or in. To find the best river kayaks can take a beating the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is small... Rapids well from old town, the other Aberystwyth and the coast, and river kayaks feel like an Explorer...