> Can any one help identify an appropriate kayak design and source for plans
> which could be built by youngsters (boys ages 12 to 17) with adult
> supervision? I'm involved with a scout troop interested in making several
> (many) personal sized kayaks to be used during summer camp on calm inland
> waters. Looking for a design stable enough for a beginning paddler and
> small enough to permit easy transportation (and storage at his own home).
> This boat could be strip built or stitch and glue. I've built a couple
> strippers a few years ago but have been away from building long enough to
> loose touch with what's happening. S & G built boats would probably
> work best as I could get the plywood donated to the troop in order to
> limit the cost and the panels would be easy to duplicate for each of the
> interested boys in the troop.

Why not build something like the Wee Lassie canoe....it is small (11.5' x 27.5")...double paddled like a kayak; and stable.....and....very light. Since the use will be in protected waters, these would be great boats. You can get red cedar in 12' lengths easily and, if you like, you can extend/modify the deck for more of a kayak like boat. Put some bulkeads in for flotation and dry storage and your set for some great overnighters. Get folks to donate the cedar and ven get some of the local woodworkers to rip the sutff up for you.......you don't have to bead and cove the strips (but it is nice if you can). These little boats are nice........you can even rig 'em to sail. And the finished product is very handsome. Check out Mac McCarthy's web site...... www.feathercanoes.com Good luck, garland