: Hello everyone ! This is my first post here, since I recently
: decided to build a S&G kayak. Since this will be a pretty
: big financial effort , I would really like the kayak I build to
: fit me.
: I am 6.40 ft , 175 lbs , size 14 shoes. All I could find on the web
: were "testimonials" of guys who had built the
: Chesapeake 18,but even if they were around my height, they were
: a lot heavier and had smaller shoe size.
: The question is whether I will really fit in this kayak ?
: CLC states the kayak to be for 210-270 lbs guys, so does this mean
: i'll need some water balast to carry around ?

: Thanks in advance for all the advice !
: Dan.

Hi Dan

I would consider building the CLC West River 18

http://www.clcboats.com/shop/boats/kayak-kits/light-touring-kayaks/west-river-18-fast-sea-kayak-kit.html

It is probably better for your weight and the multi chine hull will be easier to build with 6mm ply.

I have one of these and it is a very user friendly boat. It is also quick enough so you won't be embarrassed in a group.

I know that CLC give 12 as the maximum shoe size, but that could be offset by increasing the radius of the deck beam.

I would suggest that you consider buying the kit from CLC if you cannot get decent ply locally. It seems a shame to put in weeks of work using poor materials. Otherwise go out of your way to get some proper 4mm ply shipped in. Working with lousy ply is a pain.

The WR18 has quite a sophisticated hull shape and I would think is probably more versatile and able to handle rough water than some of the hard chine boats are, while still being stable enough that you will very soon be completely at home in it.

Finally, 6mm ply will not bend around the forward deck frames of most kayaks.

Also, 4mm ply does not need to be glassed on the decks, on top or below the deck. It is plenty strong. Just epoxy seal and varnish the wood. You will curse the added weight if you glass the deck.

The temptation on a first boat is to over-build.

My 2 cents

Etienne