Can I buy a Perception boat from the factory?

No, we do not sell boats factory direct. We rely on the best dealers in the business to make our products available to the public.

They can help you decide which boat is best for you and explain color choices, options, etc. You can look up your nearest dealer on our website by clicking on the Dealer Locator.

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There is a small dent or depression in my hull. Is there anything I can do to fix it?

This "dip" in the hull is common and natural in many  touring kayaks. It also occurs with age, as boat hulls tend to wear in the seat area. This area under the seat is no less strong than the rest of the boat, but it is less rigid due to the large, flat area. Therefore it can buckle due to temperature fluctuations, pressure from tie down straps, storage conditions, etc. This should not be considered a problem unless you notice an extremely soft or spongy feeling when pressing on this area. The same is also true of dents in the side or chine of the kayak.

These are often noticed after the boat is removed from vertical transport on a roof rack. The solution is to set the boat in the direct sun for a couple of hours (preferably in a grassy yard, not on pavement) with the dented area exposed. When the hull heats up it usually reforms itself. You may have to get creative with some weights or braces inside the boat to push the dents back out.

This process should be allowed to proceed for at least two hours. In the absence of sun or in the cooler months one foolproof way to not damage your boat and remove a dent is to use water that has been brought to the point of boiling. This will heat the plastic to a soft state without burning or melting it and allow you to push the dent out.

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How can I clean and protect my kayak?

Clean your polyethylene kayak with mild soap and water. Use 303 Protectant or a similar plastic protectant to guard against UV rays and to help your boat shine. For composite boats, you should apply a car wax that is recommended for fiberglass from time to time to protect the finish.

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What repair options do I have for my kayak?

Although it is unlikely that your kayak will need repair during its lifetime, it is possible that a hull crack or puncture might occur due to extreme impact or contact with a sharp object. If this happens, first contact Perception or your Perecption dealer to determine if the damage falls under the boat's warranty. We will need the serial number of your kayak (located on the stern), a good description of the damage (a photograph is very helpful), and a description of the incident during which the damage occurred. All this information will help us to determine the best course of action in getting you back on the water. As an owner of a boat made from polyethylene plastic, one repair option which may be available to you is welding.

Polyethylene is recyclable and repairable, unlike many other plastics. Incidents necessitating welding happen to less than one percent of boats, but if for some reason you should get a crack or hole in your boat, refer to the following repair instructions or call us for additional assistance.

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What is considered the correct way to transport my kayak?

A roof rack, whether factory installed or an aftermarket product, greatly enhances both security and convenience when transporting your kayak. There are many aftermarket accessories that combine with a roof rack to offer even more convenience and security. The simplest, but not necessarily the most secure solution is to place minicell foam cradles between the boat and the roof, and tie the boat to the roof rack, if so equipped, or through the door openings of vehicles without a roof rack.

The most secure attachment would come from an aftermarket roof rack and specially made "kayak cradles." This option provides security, convenience, and protection from hull damage. Good results may also be obtained by tying the boat directly to a rack. It is best to at least pad the rack with foam and tie the boat on upside-down to minimize deformation of the hull. In all cases, it is recommended to tie both ends of the boat to the bumpers for extra security. Your Perception dealer can provide you with any parts and accessories you may need.

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How can I get a customized fit for my touring kayak?

* FLOTATION - For touring kayaks without sealed bulkheads, additional flotation is a must. Bow and stern flotation bags are cut to fit the longer hulls of touring kayaks. Available in storage and regular styles, flotation bags will make you more confident and your outing safer.

* SPRAYSKIRTS - Always paddle with a sprayskirt, especially in rough conditions. The skirt will shed water and greatly facilitates rolling in case of a capsize. Touring skirts come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but use one based on the conditions in which you expect to paddle, i.e. more waterproof for colder water, and more breathable in warmer conditions.

* PADDLE - Yes, you will need a paddle. But how long should it be? What about Take Apart Paddles? Blade shapes? Weight? Most of these questions can be answered just by knowing how much you want to spend, but the length of your paddle is more subjective: touring kayak paddles range from 210 cm to about 240 cm in length. If you are just about 5 feet tall or a bit over, use a paddle in the lower range; naturally, taller people will use a longer paddle. Given variations in torso length, arm length, and boat width, it's a good idea to test different paddle lengths to determine your own personal preference.

* DECK SYSTEMS - Deck Bags provide convenient and secure storage of items. They lash securely to your deck rigging and can be positioned in front of your cockpit or behind it. They provide a handy location for often needed items or for vital emergency gear. Map Cases are also available which protect maps and navigational charts.

* THIGH BRACES - The addition of thigh braces to your touring kayak will improve boat control and greatly facilitates rolling.

Visit http://www.harmonygear.com for a complete listing of options.

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How can I retrofit my touring kayak with bulkheads?

Many touring boat manufacturers (including Perception, until we introduced welded plastic bulkheads) use minicell foam to fabricate bulkheads. This is a fairly inexpensive and effective method of retrofitting bulkheads in a boat that didn't originally come with them. For current models, simply ask your dealer to order the respective pre-cut minicell bulkhead(s) from us.

For discontinued models, you can fabricate bulkheads from 3" minicell foam. (Also available from your dealer. Start with a chunk of foam slightly larger than the area of the boat where you plan to install the bulkhead. Shape it with a serrated knife and a shaping tool (Dragonskin works well) until it fits snugly. Start removing foam gradually, test fit, and keep removing foam until it's just right. The better the fit, the drier your seal will be. Once it's the right shape, place it and seal both sides with a bead of Lexel, or a similar silicon sealant. If possible pull up the edges a bit to get some of the sealant between the foam and the hull.

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Are there special tips for maintaining a touring kayak?

With preventive and seasonal maintenance your Perception touring kayak will last through many seasons of hard use. Before heading out, look over all of the shock cord and static lines. If any are too loose or frayed, replace accordingly.

Check to see that the footbraces adjust easily and aren't jammed with sand. If they are, remove the pedals and use a small scrub brush and a garden hose to remove the grit. If you have a boat with a rudder or skeg, check to make sure that all the moving parts are not binding. Clean by scrubbing away grit and then by coating the parts with a silicone-based lubricant. A water-based UV protectant such as 303 will keep your boat shiny and safe from the sun.

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Which sprayskirts fit my Perception kayak?

View our sprayskirt fit chart to see which Harmony sprayskirts will fit your Perception model.

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I'm looking at a Perception model that's for sale, but I don't see it listed on the website?

Some of our kayak models are available exclusively at select retailers. If you are looking for more information on specifications for one of these models, please send us a message using our contact form.

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Where can I find an owner's manual for my kayak?

We have posted our owner's manuals online and you can find them by clicking here to go to the Care and Repair page.

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I am looking for the Perception Torrent kayak but cannot find it on your website.

Perception no longer sells the Torrent model, but the unique Torrent sit-on-top is still an active series and has been moved under our sister company Dagger. It's great for recreational and some whitewater use! Click here to view the Torrent product page at Dagger.com

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How do I adjust my Zone outfitting on my kayak to fit me?

You can download our Zone outfitting instruction guide PDF by clicking here.

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How do I choose a Paddle?

Choosing a paddle is largely a matter of personal preference. There are many sizes, shapes and materials available. If possible, try a number of different paddles and choose the one that feels best. Keep in mind, a paddle is an extremely important piece of gear that can make or break the pleasure of a full day on the water. Take the time to decide what works best for you.

You can view an online guide from AT Paddles to help you narrow your selection using the sizing chart.

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What should I take with me when I go kayaking?

The following list is an example of what you might take on a typical daytrip:

• Boat Paddle
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD) (required) with whistle
• Neoprene or Nylon Spray Skirt
• Quick drying clothing suitable for the conditions
• Bilge Pump
• Paddle
• Float Boat
• Transportation Rack/Cartop Kit
• Water bottle or hydration system
• Spare warm clothes in a drybag
• FirstAid Kit
• Sunscreen/Sunglasses/Hat
• Cell Phone
• Marine Radio
• 2 piece Spare Paddle Dry Bag
• Compass Chart Case with Regional Chart or Map

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Where can I find the serial number on my kayak?

Serial number will be found on right side (standing at stern looking forward) of kayak just below the side seam demarcating hull and deck. Position will vary from boat to boat but is usually within 8-18" forward of stern. Serial numbers are scribed into hull.

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How can I keep my storage compartments dry?

You will want to periodically check that your hatches are watertight. We use a very durable sealant for our bulkheads, but the flexing that occurs during transport and paddling may wear them out over time.

If your storage compartments are wet, first identify where the water is getting in. Are your hatch covers intact and securely fastened? Are your bulkheads sealed well? Are there any deck fittings that have broken or become loose? If the source isn’t obvious, do a "reverse leak test." Begin with a dry boat. Put about a gallon of water in the suspect hatch, seal the cover, then roll the boat around and see where the water comes out. If the leak is coming from a bulkhead, simply clean and dry it, then simply reseal it with a good marine sealant such as Lexel, 3M 5200 or Sikaflex.

DO NOT use silicone as it does not stick well to plastic or composite materials. Replacement deck fittings and neoprene washers are available for deck leaks.

Remember to use dry bags for items that MUST stay dry.

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Which Perception kayaks are best for kids?

Kayaking kids should check out the Acadia Scout 10.0, Carolina 12.0XS and the Tribute 10, 12 and 14. Kids also need PFD's specifically sized for them, clothing that will protect them in the wet environment and a paddle with a smaller diameter shaft and blades which is designed for smaller paddlers.

These accessories are generally available at your local Perception dealership or you can browse and purchase directly online at http://www.harmonygear.com.

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What do I do if I think I have a warranty claim?

If you think your kayak may have a warranty issue, first be sure that it is in fact eligible for a warranty. To be eligible, your boat must have been purchased new less than five years ago, and from an authorized Perception retailer. Keep in mind that our warranty policy covers materials or manufacturing defects - not damage caused by impact or improper use, or normal wear and tear. This includes damage that results from hitting rocks or other obstacles while paddling.

If you think your boat may qualify, begin by contacting the dealer from which you purchased the boat. Have your serial number ready, and be prepared to give the date of purchase and a detailed description of the problem and what caused it. Your dealer may then contact us for further advice - at which point we may ask for photos or an even more detailed description of the issue.

The more information you can provide the better. Problems requiring warranty use on Perception kayaks are uncommon, but when they occur, please be as thorough as you can with the dealer and your Perception Warranty representative. Doing so will speed the process immensely, and get you back on the water as soon as possible. Our complete warranty policy can be viewed online. Please review it before you begin a potential claim.

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How can I find an international dealer outside of North America?

If you're interested in purchasing a product from a dealer outside of North America, please use our international distributor locator by clicking here to see if one is available in your country. They can put you in contact with someone locally (if applicable) to purchase a kayak.

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I am looking for a Perception or Perception Sport boat but I can't find it on your website?

Perception Sport is a different line of kayaks than Perception and are only available for purchase at certain retailers. Due to this, they are not available on this website. If you have questions on a Perception Sport boat (or a Perception boat that may now be a Perception Sport model) use the contact form available at http://www.perceptionsport.com.

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