> Pete,

> I've built the Panache and the standard Guillemot, so can't comment
> directly on the Expedition Single. However, recognizing it's not the exact
> comparison you asked for, I will make it anyway. (Anyone feel free to
> correct my misconceptions). Forgive the stream-of-conciousness
> enumeration.

> Panache: Very strong tracking. Very little weathercocking. Takes multiple
> boatlengths to turn, even with a paddle extension and boat lean. Bow rides
> over waves. Inspires a confident lean because of the amount of hull flare
> above the waterline. Near knife-edge stems require more twist to build
> than those of the Guillemot. Longer waterline and faster boat than the
> Guillemot (but maybe not Expedition Single). A bit more roomier than the
> Guillemot. The hatch construction is more complex and yields attractive
> (but raised) hatches. (of course, you can do a flush one too). The cockpit
> construction is different than the Guillemot (the Guillemot looks better
> and results in a slightly lower lip). The boat is built with forms raised
> above a strongback.

> Guillemot: Weak tracking (again, not Expedition Single. However, I tried
> the Night Heron at the Rendezvous, and although it had noticibly better
> tracking, it didn't equal the Panache). Consequently, it's a joy to turn.
> Perfect for back-water exploration. Not quite as stable when leaned. Will
> require a skeg for high-wind paddling. Bow punches through waves as
> opposed to over (not surprising considering the volume difference). Easier
> to construct than the Panache because of fewer twists. Extra-cool looking
> cockpit with the recess (but I canibalized the lip construction method
> from that of the Panache). Flush hatches are the way to go to emphasize
> the beautiful lines. The boat is built with forms threaded over a boxbeam.

> Having said all that, the majority of the construction methods are
> identical. If you can build one of them you can build the other.

> There may be other intangibles that you might discern if you poke around
> my website. I've documented the construction of both boats. Feel free to
> email me if you want to pick my brain.

> Good luck,

> Ross

Ross, It's too bad you did not get to paddle the Exp. Single. I too share your thoughts about the Night Heron. I have not paddled the Guillemot but the Expedition Single is on my list of things to do. She tracks strong, is fast and turns readily when put on edge. I was able to try her in wind and waves and I did not depoly the skeg. I would not install one on this boat.

The decision on which boat to build for me is now a no brainer. I just received by mail from Newfound's the plan set for the Expedition Single with Nicks book. I won it in the Rendezvous raffle. I was not at the drawing and did not know till today (thurs). Not only did I have a great time at the Rendezvous, I won the plans for the boat I wanted to build. "It dont get any better than this"!!!!

Larry C.