Hey All,

I've finally finished and launched my Sea Ranger. This is my first time building a SOF and my first time paddling one as well. This shot was of the launch on Lake Sammamish in Washington State.

First off, let me say I'm in love with this boat already. Primary and secondary stability are both quite good, much better than I expected they would be. I really had no difficulty getting in and out of the boat, though I'm a pretty slim guy.

I stayed true to the plans on the Yostwerks' site as much as possible. I elected to go with a fiberglass floating coming ring, which worked out better than expected. I went with a zipper down the back deck. I paddled three or four miles in it and was very impressed. My other boats are CLC 16's and I found the Ranger to have a slightly deeper draft. It is faster and more nimble than the CLC's, but that's to be expected.

All in all, very well mannered boat and I can't wait to start pushing it a little. I've got a few little tweaks to make, I want to add padding to the seat area and the zipper broke right away so I need to replace it. I was able to get it zipped closed, but I think I skinned it a little too tight.

Can't to start the next one!

Special thanks to Tom Yost and Bill Hamm for the great advice and design plans. Also need to mention Brian Schulz as his instructions for getting in and out of a SOF were bang on.

Eric M.