We have an Arrow lake (6 birth) so is comparable:
How long does it take to pitch?
The tent itself isn't too bad, about 3/4 hr. It's a bit longer than a nylon tent as you really have to sip in the groundsheet and add the inners, as it could be too heavy to pitch all in one (though not tried it!), plus the ground sheet goes in a separate bag with the poles. There are a lot of pegging points on the tent - I do this whilst OH deals with the groundsheet/inners/carpet etc (tip: write on the groundsheet which is bed/door end - a lot of time was initially wasted figuring out which way it zips in). As we have put the tent quite a few times now, we are getting prett quick and we know what each of use does etc. I think a big factor in set up time for camping is all the stuff you bring into the tent once you've got it up.
How easy is it to pack away if it's wet - is it harder to pack a wet polycotton tent into it's bag compared to a nylon one?
No different to pack, polycotton does absorb water. The flysheet goes in its own very generous bag, so no problem getting it in there.
Is a wet polycotton tent even heavier than a dry one?
Yes.
Does polycotton require any maintenance?
No more than polyester really - keep it clean and make sure it's bone dry when you store it. Contrary to manufacturers instructions the shop recommended it should be weathered prior to use (and I agree). Avoid touching the flysheet from inside if wet too.
Is there anything else we should be thinking about?
Having been in polyester and polycotton tents, I personally prefer the latter - they are cooler when its hot (important if you go abroad), warmer when cold, bit quieter (wind/rain) and never had any condensation problems - down side is bigger bags/heavier. The ground sheet on the lake tents is really good. Our lake tent has stood up to some pretty horrenous weather conditions.
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