Sipre Marlin M Surf Ski review

I had the Sipre Marlin M surf ski for the summer just gone here in Ireland.  This was my first ski to own and only my second to paddle.  When I decided to buy a ski I wanted to get something that I could paddle comfortably and confidently in some decent conditions.  As I would be paddling solo I needed a ski that was not a full on racing ski and that I could remount easily if needs be.

When my Marlin arrived I was delighted with what I had gotten.  There isn't a lot of info on this ski on the web so it was a bit of a punt, but it paid off. When you first sit in the ski it might feel a little tippy, but once you get moving the stability kicks in and its a pleasure to paddle.  It cruises on flat water at 10kmph and handles cross wind/chop really well.  I have had it out in some nice swell and have clocked 25kmph into an offshore.  Check the video below. 

Overall I really like the Marlin.  Its a perfect intermediate ski and an excellent craft to get started on if you have a bit of experience paddling racing kayaks.  It's fully adjustable as well so it can cater for various leg lengths. My ski was a basic construction and weighed about 16kg.

Spec. Sipre Marlin M
Width 48cm
length
578cm
Hull- same as Fenn XT
Front deck hatch

Similar skis,
Mazu Fitness

Here is a rough guide to ski widths and
their suitability.

Elite - anything under 45cm width
Intermediate - 45 - 49cm width
Beginner - anything over 50cm width.