Sabiki this wrote:
I just picked up my new 2021 Compass and the scupper holes were ruff cut like your picture, It seems that using the scupper cart would put additional pressure on the area that I've taken it out once so far, but I'll have to check to see if it leaks! Thanks for the post, it might have helped me out!
Sorry I haven't responded to this. Summary of issue and resolution of this issue below:
Root Cause - I performed a pressure test on the hull and it was determined that the drive well and scupper hole defects were not the cause of the leak. The cause of the leak was pinpointed to be faulty installation of the aft nut insert for the replaceable keel. The aesthetic issues with the scupper drain holes and drive well do not effect the function of the kayak.
Corrective Action - Hobie determined that the issue with the aft nut insert causing the leak warranted replacement of the hull, as they do not recommend such repairs below the waterline. I filed the claim with a local dealer and I should *hopefully* be receiving a new hull in the next couple of weeks.
Customer Service - Hobie, in general, has been very responsive to my complaints during this whole thing. Particularly, once I was put in contact with Matt (mmiller above) the process moved quickly. He was very accommodating taking phone calls after hours, and answering e-mails over the weekend.
Aesthetic Issues - While the scupper drain holes are not aesthetically pleasing, they have no effect on the function of the kayak and something I could ultimately live with. The cosmetic damage around the drive well was also "only" an aesthetic issue, however a little more difficult for me to swallow. I hope the new hull is in much better condition than this one, and that this was just a bad example that slipped through the cracks. I realize that the hulls will not be perfect, but spending premium $$$$ for a premium product should get you a product that reflects that cost in craftsmanship.
I will post an update once I get the new hull and will report about it's condition as compared to this one, as well as how long it takes from claim to fulfillment. Overall, I understand *stuff* happens and I was most likely just unlucky here. A bit of a bummer I will miss out on weeks of peak fishing season, but such is life.