Straight tracking is not the Guillemot's strongest point. I don't have any problems with open water crossings, but it may take more concentration than some people prefer. If you stop paddling it will probably turn. It responds well to slight leans and the course it goes is under your control.

: I have a specific question about the Guillemot's handling characteristics and
: would like a bit of input from people that have paddled one.

: I am not aware of a Guillemot in the Ottawa, Ontario area that I can try out
: and all my experience has been with hard chime designs so I would
: appreciate some comments.

: I want to use the Guillemot for long distance touring and don't plan to carry
: anything more that a camera, some rain gear and lunch - 175 to 200 pounds
: fully loaded.

: I have been reading some of the posts about tracking. A bunch of things
: affect tracking - design, paddler weight, weight placement, paddling
: style, rudders, skegs, etc..

: Since I have not started building my Guillemot yet [working on a pair of
: Chesapeake 17 LTs right now] this is the time to make some decisions.

: Do you think the Guillemot design is fine, as is, for my needs? Should I
: consider stretching the form spacing to build a longer kayak. Should I be
: thinking about a retractable or fixed skeg.

: My friend has suggested that a 24 bottle case of beer would be excellent for
: ballast and when that was gone that I would notice/care if I was paddling
: straight or not ;-)

: TIA for the help.

: Hank