After giving up canoeing and kayaking 10 years ago because of a bad knee and a broken arm, I finally could not resist getting back on the beautiful rivers and lakes in Florida.
My primary concern was the weight of the boat and how to transport it. The Puffin Sport by Pakboats is a compact open-top kayak that folds up and stores in its own duffle bag. It weighs 17 pounds and is 10.5 feet long when assembled. The inflatable seat and footrest add a few pounds more. The two-piece paddle weighs 2-1/2 pounds.
Put on a wheeled luggage carrier, it is no problem to hike a mile to the Silver River. It takes about 1/2 hour to assemble and 15 minutes to disassemble, if there is not an ongoing conversation with visitors.
 Launching |
| The Puffin was christened and launched in our neighborhood swimming pool for its maiden voyage. It was the safest place with the members of our exercise class assisting and a good place to practice getting in and out of the boat. |
 Paddling in Pool |
 Climbing Out |
| The Spring Run at DeLeon Springs State Park was a great place to practice. No current and lots of birds and other wildlife on the way to Lake Woodruff. The boat ramp at Manatee Springs State Park had easy access to the Suwanee River. |
 DeLeon Springs |
 Manatee Springs |
| The Silver River was one of the main reasons I needed a kayak. The paddle from the boat ramp at the State Park to the head spring and back is one of the best trips with the kayak.
|
 Silver Springs River boat dock |
 Silver Springs River ramp |
The current was no problem and the boat tracked very easily. After the first trip on the river, I took my camera for closeups of the wildlife.
 Alligator |
 Anhinga |