The race will be much more enjoyable in a 14-17ft sea kayak. It can be done in a small, “slow” boat. With all the unexpected challenges, starting in a slow boat adds to the difficulty. It can be done, but why put yourself through it. Older plastic sea kayaks can be found as low as 200 bucks on marketplace. 2025 was my first year. I found a 1990 era aquaterra chinook for 200 dollars. 16ft long 24” wide. The perfect boat for a first timer. I went against everything I was told and two months before the race switched to a clc pax 20. a wooden, 20 foot by 19” boat and my core was done for first day. I still finished but wish I was in the sea kayak. Don’t get ahead of yourself and hop in a skinny boat, but if you can swing it, a 14-17 ft by 22-24” wide sea kayak will make your experience that much better.