Gary- I built an OI about 2 years ago. I presently have 4 kayaks including a Panache, Skin Baidarka and a Romany.They all have their positive attributes and all kayaks are a comprimise.For most of my paddling the Outer Island is my favorite. I have taken it on trips up to 5 days but my last trip to Baja (1 month) I took the Panache. I would agree with the other response about it's handling characteristics ,especially how easy it is to roll. IT is very fast and forgiving. The only gripe I had with it was a tendancy to weather cock which was corrected with the installation of a retractable skeg. In fairness to the design, however, I think I faired a bit more off of the keel then I should have in the stern when building, which could explain it. There where some "improvements" that I thought would enhance an already good design. They are included in Jay's latest version of the Outer Island. The asthetics of the boat are hard to beat. The lines just look "right"

I am about to finish another Outer Island which I started a couple of months ago. I reduced the volume by reducing the stations 2% on a copy machine and then tweeking the deck height back up in front of the cockpit to be sure my feet will fit. The bow has more rocker and the stern less than the original. I installed a retractable skeg because it is so much easier before the deck is installed. My guess is that it probably won't need it. The slightly higher bow should make it more prone to go over, rather than under the back side of waves when surfing the steep chop we have on San Francisco Bay. This version had a bit less volume than my first one before I reduced it. I built this one more as a "play" boat and am not that concerned with storage.

Sorry for the long winded response. If you want to talk further about it, give me a call. My number is 1-900- for wet fun ( only kidding) 510 428 4023 is the correct #

Ken Katz