> I've got a couple of Chesapeake Light Craft kayaks. My Patuxent 17.5 is
> definently fast but I would not characterize it as easy to turn. My Cape
> Charles 17 is also a fast boat. It is also very maneuverable, turns easily
> and responds to lean. It also tracks well. It is the boat I chose to
> paddle around Manhatten in last year. I wanted a boat that would require
> the minimum energy expenditure to make the trip (30+ miles with the
> tides). All in all it is a very nice handling boat.

> The Cape Charles is no longer offered in kit form, but CLC does still sell
> the plans. Their Chesapeake line, which is available in kit or plans,
> seems to be an evolution of the Cape Charles.

On topic, I can confirm that the Chesapeake is a fast, fairly maneuverable boat. Off topic, I'd like to hear more about Mike's trip around Manhatten. It's something I've had in the back of my mind for a while. I've read a published description but would be interested in a first hand account. Perhaps a posting on the "Trips" BB?