apparently quite large and , ironically,doesn't surf particularly well

very stable as a result of its size

A good paddling board -but for surf - look elsewhere

The Laird 12'1 is a beginner or flat water board. Its 31 inches wide so it feels like the Queen Mary compared to some other SUPS. Great for taking the dog or kids for a paddle. Cruises in flat water and ankle high waves but is a mission to turn in anything bigger.
The 10 and 11ft Lairds are more manouverbale but at only 27 inches wide its a bit of a compromise in stability. Not a good board to get started on, more for advanced surfers and even then they are still a bit tippy.