> I plan on taking a three week kayak/camping trip through the Trent Severn
> waterway in Ontario, Canada. I'm trying to pick the best kit to meet my
> expedition and boat building skill level (novice). I am currently leaning
> towards a CLC Chesapeake 18. I am just over 200 lbs and will be carrying 3
> weeks worth of camping gear so I need a boat with big displacement and I
> obviously what efficiency and stability. I think building stitch and glue
> is the easiest for beginners, is it? I'm strong enough to handle the boat
> but my paddling technique is that of a novice, should I order a rudder?
> Any other tips on boat selection, accessories or suggested gear for
> camping would be greatly appreciated.

> cheers, Dan

I don't want to make your decision more difficult, but you should consider Pyrmy's kits as well. I finished a Coho this Fall and found the construction quick and fairly straight forward. From the stories in the Pygmy catalog, the Coho should hold more than enough gear for your trip. I happen to like the looks better than CLC's (a matter of taste) and everyone says that you will not need a rudder on a Pygmy. Good luck. John