> She doesn't really care. She is an experienced paddler so doesnt really
> need the high initial stability of HC. She wants a S&G of similar size,
> perforamce to the Currents designs solstice which I think does not have a
> hard chine. She more went for the Osprey due to its 16 ft length vs. the
> larger Pygmy Tern with the hardchine. A 16 ft Tern would be good though if
> it was available.

> If so you might want to look at

> Lots of camping with a few day trips thrown in. Plus the Pygmy boats are
> less desireable since I would rather save some $$ and built from plans.
> She has traditionally paddled 15-17 ft boats and I think the 16 footer is
> a okay choice.

> I don't know about the Merganser

> I want to try a non-CLC design and would prefer to go with a plan rather
> than a kit. However, if logic points towards CLC 16 or Pygmy as better
> than I'll go whatever route. She is funding it so I'm just in charge of
> trying to help her select a kit in addition to mostly building it. If
> pygmy made plans for all their kits they might get my business since its
> easier to get opinions on their boats than Shearwater design stuff.

> The lines on the Shearwater did look pretty similar to the Tern, just
> shorter in length and maybe a bit narrower. So thats why I made the
> initial thought. Plus I would rather get the plans than the kit since I
> can operate a jig saw and since my labor is free and we have a place that
> stocks okuome that I can drive too.

> Thanks. Happily accepting more comments.

> Pete Albany, NY

Pete,

I did a plywood version of the Walrus with a higher bow. It is just under 17' with a 22" beam and weighs 33lbs. It is a very strong tracker but carves very crisp turns. Length is adjustable, as well as depth. Deck design is up to the builder. Cost was $140, but I had forms leftover from the skin version, so add $30 (plus whatever the book costs). It is my favorite kayak now, it is very playful. Let me know if you are interested and I could give you more specifics.

Mike