> I am in the throes of indecision here! I'm getting ready to build my first
> kayak, and choosing which one is getting silly. hmmm s&g are easy and
> cheaper, stippers are gorgeous, on the other hand, it's your first, etc.
> etc....arggg!!

> I have decided to base my choice mostly on what will suit my needs as a
> beginner, (had some training in plastic boats, years ago), in the paddling
> end of things. But I want to build a beautiful craft too. My wookworking
> skills are pretty good, and I have built many large complex projects, (3
> aircraft and a car among them), so the choice between stripper or s&g is
> not important. I'm large, 6' 240lb and inexperienced. At my age of 50+ I
> may never master a roll, though that will be the first order of business
> once I get wet. My paddling will be on fairly quiet rivers, the Great
> Lakes, and large ponds, but it's unlikely that I'll get to the sea with
> it. I live in SW Ontario. I'm not that interested in long trips. I guess I
> want a beautiful, easy to paddle, relatively inexpensive, all round kayak.
> My short list so far: Georgian Bay Panache Chesapeake 17 Guillemot S&G
> Epedition Are there others that should be on this list? Are any of these
> boats inappropriate for my needs? Your input would really be appreciated.

James,

I would also add the Redfish Spring Run or Return to your list. They are some of the nicest kayaks that I have paddled. Beautiful, and perform very well. The Spring Run is shorter and wider, the Return is longer and narrower. While both track very well the Spring Run turns very easily and the return is better for faster straight line paddling. I will be building a Spring Run for my wife this winter. If you can, try to find people in your area that have the kayaks you are interested in. Paddle before you build if at all possible. Even if you don't, you probably won't be disappointed in your choice, you'll just be happier if you do. I've included the link to Redfish's builders directory.

Mike