I put the last finishing touches on my Guillemot this past Saturday, and took her out for a spin on Sunday at Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge in Fairfax, VA. My only comment on the boat--WOW!!! Compared to what I've been paddling for the last eight years, this thing is a dream. Light (42 lbs fully outfitted), responsive, easy to roll, and beautiful. My only complaint--I built it for my girlfirned and now I want one of my own. At 6'1", 205 lbs, and size 12 feet, I think I'm at the upper end for fitting in it (I can't fit in it with my paddling shoes on), but without them I'm quite comfortable. I started out having no experience with power tools or any wood working skills, but found that a little patience to take the time and learn the necessary skills was all I needed to get the job done. The BBS proved invaluable and answered many questions before I needed to ask them. Thanks for all your help and until next fall when I begin project #2 (my own Expedition Single or baidarka).

Now, it's off to the Outer Banks of North Carolina for a week of paddling in the ocean swells. I only hope that I'm allowed to try the Guillemot some more.

Lew

If I ever gain access to scanner, I'll try to post some pics.