Element, there are many traditional kayakers (not my friends), who just hate Hobie. They can't stand the fact Hobie calls their mirage drive boats kayaks. They feel a "kayak" is defined by a boat that is propelled by a double bladed paddle. I think there is also a little jealousy about the success of the mirage drive boats. Then, there is the "over-enthusiasm" of some mirage drive kayakers--that irritates some kayak fishing persons. All these things are really their problem, and it doesn't bother me.
Can I outrun my kayaking friends? So, far, that has not been the case. Just a year ago, when we returned from East Cape Sable in ENP, we had 18-20 mph head wind during the 11-mile straight-line trip. I had to tack into it and it was tough, but I did the trip in 4 hrs (I did 20 mi overall). The kayakers took 5 to 5.5 hrs, and they were spent.
Other than that one time, usually they beat me. There are a several reasons: (1) w/o wind we can't move. (2) Light winds are only slightly better. Camping trips are scheduled in advance w/o consideration for the winds. (3) The kayakers always go the shortest route, but, as a sailor you are controlled by the winds and usually you do significantly more miles. (4) I usually take longer to get underway--that is also true if I am paddling, but it is worse when I am using the AI. I enjoy our camping so much, I'm always the last to break camp and get going.
When I did my 70-mile Flamingo to Chokoloskee trip last year, I put in a 34 mi day at about 5 mph. No kayaker could have come close to that. So, we will have our days.
Have fun,
Keith
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