My wife and I recently purchased two Manatees as birthday presents for each other. These are our first kayaks but we've done a fair amount of paddling over the years, from small rivers to fresh water lakes to sea kayaking. We are smaller in stature (5'2" and 5'6") and we found that these boats fit us very well. We'll use the manatees on local rivers and lakes and for that purpose they perform very well. The kayaks are light weight and easy to transport. They are comfortable and easy to adjust. They are very maneuverable and responsive in the water. We did a lot of comparison shopping both online and at local retailers. We found that in terms of features (stern hatch, deck rigging, included accessories) the LL Bean Manatee package was by far the best deal going. These boats look great and the construction is top quality. We would highly recommend the Manatees to anyone looking for high quality, affordable recreational kayaks.
Whole family loves the Kayak. Good value with paddle and cover included in deal. Shipping is a steal. Shipped in 10 day even though ad stated 12-14 weeks. We Love it! Highly recommend for beginners.
Response from L.L.BeanBy L.L.Bean Customer Service, August 27, 2008
Please note that the delivery timeframe we indicate above (just below the pulldown menu where you choose your kayak's color) is accurate and current. Sometimes customers receive their boats more quickly, but we're unable to promise these faster delivery times.
Overall rating
5/ 5
CapeCodBeaner
fromCape Cod, MA
Gender:Male
How often do you shop at L.L.Bean?Frequently
LL Bean 10' Manatee Dlx Kayak
PostedJune 1, 2008
My wife and I both bought the 2008 Manatee Deluxe Package 10' Kayaks. We have used them several times in the first 2 weeks both on a fresh water pond, and on a sheltered ocean bay. We love the Kayaks ! Even in a stiff breeze with a chop they track very well, they are quite stable, and we both feel comfortable within the cockpits. We shopped before we bought, and found you could not duplicate the quality of construction, and the features for the price we paid at LL Bean !
First time kayaker - took it out on the river today and I just loved it. It seemed to track very well and was extremely stable. It was light enough for me to carry it around myself. Seat was very comfortable and adjustable footrests were great. Only problem I encountered was the adjustable strap on the seat doesn't hold at all but it didn't really matter since I could just pull the strap to the position I wanted and just leave it there permanently. I would highly recommend this kayak package.
