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The theme behind the Cheta design is simple- size and speed. The Cheta is huge for two reasons. One is so that it can be packed with lots and lots of gear and goodies for extended trips. The other reason is so that it remains super buoyant. This keeps waves from slapping the rider in the chest as much- which would slow them down. It also makes the boat more resistant to pinning if things ever get out of hand. Even though the middle of the boat is huge the ends are tapered down and ride close to the water to keep them from being affected by high winds.
The gentle rocker and soft chines of the hull are what make this boat remarkable. The laser-aligned keel-like ends are down in the water "doin business" but are still somewhat releasable by heeling the boat. This creates a boat with a high and variable top end speed which is MANAGEABLE. The speed is UNDER CONTROL. Controllable high speed... wwwooah! The soft chines are also excellent for attaining and rock hits because they allow you to travel exceedingly close to rocks and if you do happen to hit one, it will be a soft hit which doesn't jar the boat or "adjust" your line very much.
Who is this boat for? Speed cruisers primarily. This is not only people who enjoy cranking down favorite runs but also those who participate -and appreciate advantages- in extreme whitewater races. But the main population this boat serves well are those who want to tour sections of river which are not only challenging but also possibly include looong stretches of flatwater- where speed is essential. This means this design applies well to say- expeditions in Alaska, or challenging sea touring- or anywhere a ruddered sea kayak is too cumbersome but most whitewater kayaks are too slow. Indulgent speed, luxurious size, controllable horsepower- if this sounds fun to you, consider saddling up a Cheta.
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