> While the recovery kayak described in the 10/98 Sea Kayaker is a great
> design for its purpose, I would think that the 25" beam is too wide
> for a child. In addition to awkward paddling with hands hitting the deck,
> the boat would probably be unstable in a cross-sea - the child would have
> a hard time leaning the kayak into the oncoming wave which could push the
> boat over.

> My 9 year-old son (about 60-65 lbs) paddles a 13.5 foot, 19.5" beam
> boat that is just right for his hips and shoulders. Should last him up to
> about 100lbs or another 2-3 years.

> I imagine you could scale a Guillemot down proportionately to around 14
> feet and have a fine boat.

I don't know that it would be an ideal kid kayak, but it has some promise. The beam could easily be adjusted to make for easier paddling. It should lean very nicely (even for a child) with its round bottom.

Mike