Short version: I simply cannot find a leak in my 2012 Adventure mirage kayak, but I estimate at the end of a day of inshore saltwater use I have 3-5 gallons of water in the boat.
Things I have tried: taking it to the dealer (Great Outdoor Provision Co. in Raleigh, NC) 2x. The boat guy pressure tested the hull, went through it carefully, then on the second occasion told me he water tested it at the lake and saw nothing. All the hatch seals have been replaced, including the gasket for the bow hatch.
Called Hobie support directly - I believe I spoke to "Scott," but can't find my notes. I explained the issue and said I wasn't looking for a warranty repair - the boat is out of warranty, but could I at least buy a replacement hull at cost (I've bought 4 brand-new Mirage Hobies to date), so it's not like I'm a disloyal customer. I also asked if Hobie every had a field rep in the area; maybe he or she could look and try to find the leak. The answer I received is Hobie won't do anything, until I could show them the leak, and even if they agreed to a replacement hull at cost (BIG IF) it would be far out of my price range, because they don't make that older style hull, so I'd have to get the new drive, seat, etc., etc.
Sorry, this was supposed to be the short version.
Anyway, this is frustrating beyond belief, especially bringing the boat back from the coast to Raleigh 2x: 300mi roundtrip. It's not so much a safety issue, but the boat is slow with that much water in it, and it's a huge pain in the *ss to deal with at the end of the day.
Thoughs: stick a GoPro camera in the hull. (Scott's suggestion). Other thoughts? I'm thinking about making sure the kayak is bone-dry inside, and taping newspaper all inside the hull. Then, checking it repeatedly. Maybe I could find a pool and get in there with a fins and a mask, but my suspicion is the leak is happening, or exacerbated from the drive action. We've tried the pressure-test with soapy water, and that didn't help.
Thx all -- really want this boat fixed because it's definitely my favorite mirage kayak. I've looked to see if I could buy another hull used, and I'd probably find a hen's tooth sooner!