My girlfriend and I took our Chestnut Prospector out to Indian Lake Islands two weeks ago. The weather did not cooperate. High winds and large rolling waves all day followed by rain all night. The highlight of the trip was the Prospector.It swallowed all of our gear no problem. Three large Duluth Packs and my pack basket. The wind and waves did not hinder our paddling efficiency. By far the most extreme conditions we have paddled in,but we never felt unsafe or worried. Great boat!