Hi Mark,

I built one, and you can see some construction pictures on my website. (I built it before I got my digital camera, so the pictures are sparse and kind of cheesie)

The design is no more difficult to build than any other. The complexity comes when you decide to get fancy with the strips. Even then, the difficulty doesn't necessarily increase, just the time it takes to finish. The only possible exception is the raised hatch covers which require multiple sets of laminations. They're not really hard to build, just another step. But, you could put flush hatches if you choose.

The Panache is a very strong tracking boat, taking multiple boat lengths to turn around, even when leaned. Personally, I prefer the strong tracking. It resists weathercocking very well. It's got a pretty roomy cockpit. The flared hull above the waterline makes it very stable when leaned. The high-volume bow rides over waves. It's a nice boat.

Feel free to email me if you have other questions.

Ross

> I've made one S&G kayak and want to try a stip-built. After looking at
> many designs, I like the looks of the Greenland style and that led me to
> Rob Mack's Panache. Has anyone here built one? Paddled one? Reactions
> about how it was to build and how it handles are appreciated.