You know, I think we boat builders go a little too nuts shaving weight off our boats. I know, I've built sub-30 pound Black Pearls. They're nice to lug around but a bit fragile on the water. 5 more pounds in the lamination and/or tougher woods wouldn't hurt. One of my "regular" builds usually end up weighing between 35-40 pounds.

Seriously, I figure you're doing just fine if your wood kayak weighs less than a comparable plastic or fiberglass one. If you want to add some hardwoods for a splash of color or to show off some neat grain, go for it. Just remember they'll be tougher to work with (esp bending to curves and final sanding) and more attention will be required for tight joints. The results are definitely worth a few extra pounds.

Dan

: Hi Dan,

: My Disko Bay also has honduras sides and has figured cherry tips on
: the deck and also used 3/16" strips and like yours also
: weighs around 40 lbs. It's pretty but you pay for it in weight.

: Bill H.