Delta 15.5 GT Kayak Review
The Delta 15.5 GT is a feature-packed touring kayak known for its stability, large storage capacity, and smooth performance, making it an excellent choice for paddlers who enjoy multi-day trips and varied water conditions. Designed with intermediate to advanced paddlers in mind, the Delta 15.5 GT balances comfort with efficiency, allowing users to tackle both long-distance adventures and challenging waters. In this review, we’ll examine the key aspects of the Delta 15.5 GT to help determine if it’s the right fit for your paddling needs.
Key Features of the Delta 15.5 GT
The Delta 15.5 GT offers a combination of dimensions and features that enhance both touring performance and comfort:
- Length: 15 ft 6 in
- Width: 24 in
- Weight: 51 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: Thermoform plastic (high-impact acrylic/ABS)
- Type: Sit-In
With a lightweight design and ample storage, the Delta 15.5 GT is made to support extended trips with ease.
Stability and Performance
The Delta 15.5 GT features a shallow V-shaped hull with pronounced chines, providing both initial and secondary stability. This design keeps the kayak stable even in choppy waters, allowing paddlers to confidently navigate open lakes, coastal areas, or rivers. Its long and narrow build promotes efficient paddling, allowing for higher speeds and excellent tracking, even without using the retractable skeg.
The kayak’s maneuverability is impressive given its length, making it easy to control around obstacles while maintaining a smooth, straight line on open water. The Delta 15.5 GT is a strong performer for both recreational paddling and longer, multi-day journeys.
Comfortable and Ergonomic Seating
Designed for all-day comfort, the Delta 15.5 GT comes with a fully adjustable seat system and ergonomic backrest. The seat is padded for added comfort and support, which is essential for longer paddling sessions. Adjustable thigh and foot braces enhance stability and provide a more controlled, customized fit.
The cockpit size is generous, allowing for easy entry and exit, and it accommodates paddlers of various sizes. This emphasis on ergonomics and adjustability makes the Delta 15.5 GT comfortable for extended tours, reducing fatigue on long-distance trips.
Ample Storage Capacity
The Delta 15.5 GT is built for multi-day excursions, offering extensive storage options for packing camping gear, food, and other essentials:
- Bow, Stern, and Day Hatches: The watertight hatches provide plenty of storage space to keep your gear dry and organized, while the day hatch offers easy access to smaller items like snacks or a map.
- Deck Bungee Rigging: The front and rear bungee cords are ideal for items that need to be within quick reach, such as a spare paddle or water bottle.
These storage features make the Delta 15.5 GT highly versatile, giving paddlers the freedom to embark on multi-day trips without feeling cramped or overloaded.
Durability and Build Quality
Made from durable thermoform plastic, the Delta 15.5 GT is resistant to UV damage, impact, and abrasion, ensuring it can handle rugged shorelines and rocky landings. Thermoform plastic provides the strength of polyethylene with a lighter weight, enhancing both durability and portability. This material also gives the kayak a glossy finish, which is both attractive and easy to clean.
Portability and Ease of Transport
At 51 lbs, the Delta 15.5 GT is light for a kayak of its size, making it easier to handle during transport. Integrated handles at the bow and stern provide convenient carrying points, allowing two people to transport it comfortably. For paddlers who transport their kayak solo, a roof rack or kayak cart is recommended to ease loading and unloading.
Its size and design make the Delta 15.5 GT suitable for roof racks and trailers, ensuring you can travel to remote paddling locations with minimal hassle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent stability and tracking, making it ideal for long-distance paddling
- High storage capacity for multi-day trips
- Lightweight thermoform plastic construction for durability and easy transport
- Comfortable seating with ergonomic adjustability
- Versatile design for lakes, rivers, and coastal waters
Cons:
- Slightly wider beam may reduce speed for some advanced paddlers
- Price may be high due to its premium materials and features
- Larger length may be challenging for beginners or paddlers looking for a nimble kayak
Ideal for Multi-Day Touring and Adventure Paddlers
The Delta 15.5 GT is best suited for paddlers who want a kayak that can handle longer expeditions while providing ample comfort and stability. Its storage capacity and robust design make it a great choice for paddling in diverse water conditions, including calm lakes, coastal areas, and moderate rivers. This kayak’s build quality and attention to ergonomics make it especially appealing to those who enjoy extended trips in rugged or remote environments.
Final Thoughts on the Delta 15.5 GT
The Delta 15.5 GT is a top-tier touring kayak that combines durability, performance, and storage capacity, catering to paddlers who want to elevate their experience on multi-day adventures. Its spacious hatches, comfortable seating, and balanced stability make it a well-rounded kayak for intermediate to advanced paddlers.
Whether you’re exploring calm lakes, tackling coastal routes, or planning overnight trips, the Delta 15.5 GT offers a reliable, comfortable, and performance-driven experience on the water.