Day-aaaamn! That'll turn some heads. Just beautiful. I've never seen that brand cockpit cover before... but, with the decorative touches, it looks like an award presented to the boat!

: Dear all

: I launched Pip today, a Guillemot named after my grandmother, who
: was the first of now three Johnson wives who have put up with
: their blokes building boats. (My grandfather built two boats in
: the lounge, including bolting the frame to the floor). I can't
: think of a better way to spend a summer Christmas Eve.

: The launch photos are not on my camera but I do have his one of her
: sitting on the (home built) car rack post launch. I'll post some
: more after the holiday season.

: I want to thank some people who have inspired, helped and encourage
: me through the building process, something I have enjoyed
: throughout. Especially Bill, Kurt and Charlie for their advice,
: Dave G, Kayakev, DriftingSon, Gary and others for encouragement,
: and John Caldeira, Ross Leidy, Sandy and many others for ideas
: and tips.

: But most of all thanks to Nick for a great design, essential book
: and your video of paddling the Maine coast, which inspired me to
: start the project two years ago.

: Merry Christmas/Happy holidays to you all.

: Regards,
: Ian