The new Stellar S2E surfski – Stellar’s 2nd double surfski

I’ve just received word that Stellar has announced another new surfski to their range, and their second double surfski after their original Stellar S2EL – the all new Stellar S2E. Like their other skis it comes in all four layups (Sport, Advantage, Excel, Ultra) to suit all needs and budgets. But what’s really interesting is the design changes that Stellar has added which makes it far better for the open sea than it’s earlier brother, the S2EL, a ski which paddlers loved on the flat but found a few issues with when on the ocean (mainly an easily filled cockpit that emptied slowly and caused it to stall on the bumps).

The Stellar S2E bow – higher, more volume, reduced transition to cockpit

The official Stellar blurb goes as follows:

“Our original double, the Stellar Elite Low profile (S2EL) is ideal for smaller paddlers and is a real joy to paddle in smaller seas or protected waters. The S2EL has lower gunwals and bow deck for less windage and easier entries . Stability inherent in our designs gives paddlers the confidence to truly push themselves in this boat without compromising speed.

The new S2E is designed for true ocean conditions with ample volume in the bow and higher gunwales than the S2EL. Double venturi bailers ensure speedy bailing of water and the skis stability gives you the confidence to really push yourself in all conditions. This double will be one of the fastest , yet most stable skis on the market.”

Stellar S2E cockpits – higher gunwales, narrower footwells, faster draining

The listed differences to the original S2EL that improve the S2E’s ocean credentials are as follows:

• Higher bow deck – about 4cm higher along the whole bow
• Transition has been moved back from the bow deck to the cockpit reducing the volume of the cockpit
• Gunwales have been increased by 2cm which helps keep the water out
• Footwell remains low so as to maintain stability and has been narrowed
• Seat back is rounded so laying back is more comfortable in big seas

Of course there’s only one real questions those of us at Team Fat Paddler really want to know…. how well will this thing surf??? There’s only one way to find out…. and once we get our hands on one we’ll let you know. Cheers, FP

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