> I have abandoned my plan to build a strip kayak. I really wanted to build
> one, but I work pretty late and have a long commute, which leaves me with
> little building time, let alone kayaking time. But yet I still want to
> build and paddle my own kayak. So as an alternative to a srip built, I am
> considering stepping down to building a stich and glue kayak from
> Chesapeake Light Craft, which I understand requires much fewer hours to
> complete. I was wondering if anyone has an opinion of CLC and it's boats
> and also whether or not its cost effective to buy the kit as opposed to
> buying the plans and then locally buying all the material. I would
> appreciate any advice. /David

Ibuilt a pygmy arctic tern this spring. It took my about 6 weeks evenings and weekends about 70 hours total. I took my time, the bout could be finished in 50 hours and about 3 or 4 weeks evenings and weekends, if you applied yourself. I love the boat it looks wonderful and paddles even better. See coho vs. arctic tern thread. I'm planning a strip kayak for my wife this winter and am currently building Putz's skin on frame for around $250 and it should take under 70 hours, but I have a very nice shop. The book says you can build it in a week, so maybe 40+ hours if you rush it.

Mike