AKONA DRIFTER Single Inflatable Kayak Boat Owner’s Manual
- June 5, 2024
- AKONA
Table of Contents
AKONA DRIFTER Single Inflatable Kayak Boat
WELCOME TO YOUR NEW iKAYAK!
Your NEW Inflatable Kayak represents the very best quality, craftmanship and technical innovation in the industry. With proper care your kayak will give you years of paddling enjoyment. With knowledgeable use, it offer almost limitless paddling possibilites, at home or wherever your travels take you. To begin your adventure, check with your local dealer or paddling club for paddling opportunities in your area. Other paddlers are your best source for information regarding put-ins, take-outs, trips, etc.
WARNING
Any person using a kayak built and/or sold by AKONA is personally responsible
for determining that their abilities are equal or superior to the conditions
encountered and can exercise proper judgement in choice of where and when to
paddle. Any person using an AKONA Kayak assumes all risks and takes complete
responsibility for any and all damages, or injuries including death, which may
result from use of, or participation in AKONA Kayaks. Paddle sports can be
very dangerous and physically demanding. The user of this product should
understand that participating in paddle sports may involve serious injury or
death. Observe the following saftey standards whenever using this product.
INTRODUCTION AND SAFETY
Before hitting the water with your AKONA Kayak, read through these instructions to insure you have a safe and epic adventure.
IT IS THE OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY
to read the owner’s manual and instruct all users in the safe operation of
these products. By using these products, you agree to the Terms and
Conditions, Disclaimer and Warnings in this manual. Please read this manual
prior to using these products and keep for future reference. As with any
action sport, recklessness, inexperience, misuse or neglect of the equipment
may result in serious injury or death.
LIMITED WARRANTY
We aim to provide our customers with high quality watersports equipment, but
sometimes the unexpected happens. All AKONA Kayak products are provided with
one year warranty on parts and mancufacturer defects and a two year hull
warranty. This excludes damage due to misuse, improper care, handling impact
damage and light abrasions.
HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY
To obtain repair or replacement, call AKONA customer service at 1.800.774.447
or email AKONA at: recgroup@diversco.com In the event
of warranty claim, on initial contact, please attach the product name, your
full name, address, phone number, brieft description of the problem and proof
of purchase date.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
- Depending on your location, it is strongly recommened that a US Coast Guard Approved PFD or Transport Canada Approved PFD (personal floatation device or life jacket) is used during a paddle outing. Check with your local government to see how rules apply to you before your first journey. Kayaks arre classified as vessels and some states/countries require you to always have a PFD with you.
- Protect yourself by learning to read water and weather, and never leave shore in conditions for which you are unprepared. Consult local tide charts and maps, talk to experts and be aware of weather forecasts.
- We recommend bringing a buddy as it is always safer to paddle with a friend.
- Minors should not kayak without adult supervision.
- Do not use this kayak for anything other than its intended purpose. Using this kayak in any other matter will void the warranty.
- Always exercise safe kayaking and do not attempt maneuvers or kayak in conditions which are out of your realm of ability.
- Do not operate this vessel while intoxicated or after using any form of substance that will impair your ability to operate the kayak.
- Beware of offshore winds and currents. Never underestimate the forces of nature.
- Receive paddle sport instructions from a licensed or certified instructor.
- Dress appropriately for weather conditions; cold water and/or cold weather can result in hypothermia.
- Check your equipment prior to each use for signs of wear or failure.
- Be aware of appropriate river water levels; tidal changes, dangerous currents and weather changes.
- Do not exceed your paddling ability.
- Consult your physician before beginning your paddle sport training.
- Be on the lookout for potential hazards such as other boats, weather and other natural dangers.
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
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Find a space that provides a flat surface and large enough area to inflate the kayak properly. Make sure that there are no protruding objects that may damage or puncture the inflatable.
Remove the kayak from packaging and completely unroll in order to inflate.
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Make sure the bladder ring is securely fastened on the side tubes, floor and the Boston valves are securely fastened to the ring plate.
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Unscrew the top of the Boston valve, inset pump hose and inflate the side tubes to 2.0 PSI. DO NOT OVER INFLATE. When complete, screw top of Boston valve back on.
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Inflate floor next to 1.0 PSI. Unscrew the top of the Boston valve, inset pump hose and inflate the floor. DO NOT OVER INFLATE. When complete, screw top of Boston valve back on.
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Place seat(s) in kayak cockpit. The seat will connect to the floor with Velcro and tensioning straps with clips for adjustability. Position the seat(s) so that the weight of the paddler(s) will balance the kayak. If assembling a double, the heavier paddler should be in the back of kayak.
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Once the seats are in place and the tensioning straps are clipped to the D-rings, adjust for comfort of paddler.
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Depending on the kayak model purchased a self-inflating center seat (doubles) will be provided. Inflate using tube and place securely in middle of kayak using Velcro provided. Footrests will also be provided depending on model purchased. These are also placed in position depending on the paddler using the Velcro provided.
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Now install fin. Pace the kayak upside down on a smooth surface without objects that may puncture the kayak. Insert the front section of the fin into the fin box. Pull the fin back while pushing the fin into the fin box. Once inserted correctly the quick release pin will slide easily into the slot in the back to secure it in place.
LONG TERM STORAGE
In addition to emptying all water out, you should clean the kayak by rinsing with freshwater especially if the kayak has been used in salt water or becomes muddy. Store out of direct sunlight and indoors, if possible. UV exposure can shorten the lifespan of any kayak and can degrade its finish. Be sure to not leave straps or ropes tightly wound around the hull for extended periods of time as it may cause deformation. Your kayak should be stored deflated, rolled up and placed back into the roller backpack. Allow the board to completely dry before tightly rolling for packing. Excess moisture may cause mildew or mold damage. When rolling the board, make sure the valve is open and to start at the nose. Roll in a tight straight roll. Then close the valve and wrap the strap around your roll. AVOID standing the rolled board up on its side on rough services such as concrete or rocks. This can cause damage to the first layer of your rail.
SHORT TERM STORAGE
Be sure to empty the kayak of all water. The kayak may be stored on its side
or in a vertical position temporarily. Storage in these positions for an
extended period of time could cause flattening or deformation in the side of
the hull. When storing your paddle, unclip and dismantle the paddle to allow
to air dry.
CLEANING AND CARE
- Your kayak will usually only need a quick rinse with fresh water to keep your hull clean. If further cleaning is needed, use mild soap, water and a soft clean cloth to wash the surfaces of your kayak.
- Avoid dragging your kayak to minimize damage.
- This inflatable kayak is designed to be compact for convenient storage & travel. Due to a lack of weight when inflated, they will travel poorly if strapped to a vehicle rooftop. Damages or warping incurred by improper transport are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
- When transporting the kayak, be sure to clear any sharp objects.
- Keep the kayak clear of any heat producing items such as camp stoves, propane lamps, etc. Damages resulting from heat are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
DISCLAIMER
The use of this assumes all risks of any personal injury or death and
willfully releases AKONA and/or Diversco Supply Inc. of any and all
liabilities. This product is not a life saving device. Do not leave a child
unattended while in use. Do not use this product in conditions which are
hazardous. When in the ocean, watch for rip currents and inspect the area for
rocks, reefs, and other objects that can be considered dangerous. Keep a safe
distance from surfers and swimmers. Only use this product is you are a
competent swimmer. Adult supervision is strongly recommended.Diversco Supply
Inc., doing business as AKONA is in no event liable for any direct, indirect,
punitive, incidental, special consequential damages, to property or life,
whatsoever arising out of or connected with the use or misuse of our products.
PROP 65 DISCLAIMER
WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more
information: www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
TERMS OF USE
This product offered to you, conditioned upon your acceptance without
modification of the terms, conditions and notices excplicitly described or
implicitly obtained through normal use of the product. This product may not be
used for unlawful purposes, and its use is expressly prohibited under the
terms and conditions of its use. The use of this product in any way not in
accordance with the terms of use, description, law, or instructions, might be
unsafe and lead to injury.
AKONA® EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
OR INCIDENTAL LOSSES CAUSED BY USE OF THIS PRRODUCT.
Faults that occur through improper use or damage, abuse, acts of nature,
events beyond the control of Diversco Supply Inc./AKONA, repair or alteration
by a person other than a person authorized by Divesco Supply Inc./AKONA, or
failure to follow instructions for use void any guarantee or
warranty.Additionally, normal wear and tear, including, but not limited to,
minor discoloration and scratches are not covered by any guarantee or
warranty.The rights under these terms and conditions, shall only apply to the
original purchaser and shall not extend to commercial or communal use.
This product is not intended for use by persons (including children) with lack
of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or
instruction concerning use of the product by a person responsible for their
safety.Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the
product. Keep the product and any cord, or small components, out of reach of
children less than 8 years old. Diversco Supply Inc., rerserves the right to
change the terms, conditions and notices under which their products are
offered.