> There seems to be a lot of rivalry among the major kayak kit suppliers and
> for a newcomer it is difficult to sort through the information. For
> example, one major supplier recommends scarf joints, the other disagrees,
> one uses cambered multi-paneled decks, the other not. Unfortunately, there
> is no way for me to try out the various models before purchase, so I feel
> as if I am guessing before spending a substantial amount of money on a kit
> for my husband's birthday. Our kayaking involves launching from
> pebbly/sandy beach into light surf on Long Island Sound and Peconic Bay.I
> realize there are probably good virtues to both Pygmy and Chesapeake Light
> Craft designs but don't know how to choose. My husband is a very competent
> woodworker and advanced beginner kayaker.He is 5 foot 7 inches and a
> slender build. Does anybody have any suggestions? Experience with both?
> Strong feelings about the design differences? Thanks for the help.

I've seen a previous post that the cambered deck of the Arctic Tern allows for more upsweep of the bow and stern. Looking at the two boats this appears to be true. This is advantageous in big waves and will cause the boat to not want to stay upside down.

Mike