> I am in the throes of indecision here! I'm getting ready to build my first
> kayak, and choosing which one is getting silly...

Dear James:

Thanks for posting a question I feel fully qualified to offer an opinion on. I went through a similar process, with many of the same considerations. I decided on Nick Schade's Guillemot Expedition Single. The only part I regret, is delaying the decision. It is a magnificent boat, and I am entirely happy with it.

A brief list of why I like it.

* It is beautiful.

* The strip built process allows for many small steps, none of which is a do or die proposition. Very forgiving.

* The boat's size was a good match for my size (6'4", 245#)

* The building process allowed me to build a boat that was strong (tough durable heavy) enough to let me paddle with confidence that I wouldn't break the boat

* Did I mention it's really beautiful?

* I wanted a boat I could grow into, not out of. I got it.

Some practical advice... test paddle any boat you can, look for fit in the boat, although comfort on a showroom floor and adapting to life in the cockpit are two different things. Realize, any boat you make will be nice and you'll have fun making and paddling it. Be happy that there isn't only one right or best boat for you.

Sincerely,

Ed Valley

Disclaimer:

I am not an employee of Guillemot Kayaks, just an evangelist. I am a rookie builder and paddler, and I feel like I hit the jackpot with my choice of designs. I love my boat, you'll love yours too, you'll see.