I built both the Tern and the Coho. The Tern has fewer parts to assemble so it builds faster. I took both kayaks to Baja last winter for two months and was able to try both kayaks in various sea conditions. My favorite was the Tern because it was great in the surf and following seas. When the wind blows your only choice is to go with it (20 knot plus), or find a landing site which all to often ends up being in the surf. I found the Tern much easier to control in the surf, in fack I found myself play in the surf while others were stuck on the beach. The Coho is faster but if you want an all around fun and responsive boat I would build the Tern. There should be a write up on the Tern in Sea Kayaker soon. E-mail me if you have any questions.