: I have built/paddled a Merganser 16, 17w and 18 and paddled a Merganser 17
: and AT17. None of them really fit the bill of maneuverability and cargo
: capacity compared to the Arctic Tern. The Merganser 17W is close but the
: handling/pivot point is kind of funny, weathercocks a bit that isn't
: easily trimmed by a lean and if you weight the stern it's obvious the
: speed is lost and the balance is gone. The Merganser 18 has a volume close
: to a CD Caribou and like the Merganser 17 it's a firm tracking boat and
: efficient.
: Maneuverablity and speed are kind of opposite ends of the spectrum and when
: attempted other handling attributes like weathercocking or ability to
: correct for it tend to be worse.

: The Merganser 17 and 18 will feel more snug than the AT. The 17W with a skeg
: would be a worthwhile option. If you make the AT17 I'd suggest making your
: own recessed coaming as the peaked coaming and optional thigh bracing is
: kind of antiquated design element. I've made a Osprey 13, Coho and
: recently a Penguino. On the Penguino I made my own recess and thigh braces
: instead of using going with the original design.

: Honestly the Penguino would make an excellent "play" kayak for your
: weight and intended use even though the AT17 would fit a slightly higher
: paddling speed. If you're just beginning your search there's nothing wrong
: with researching it well.

With paddle craft, manuverablity and speed tend to be at opposite ends of the spectrum no matter what boat you're talking about. Alot has to do with rocker. In general takes a fair amount of rocker to get the ends of the boat up out of the water to give you decent manuverablilty but requires very little rocker to make the water flow quickly past the boat giving speed.

Bill H.