Both can be true.

The 'some people' who think wood boats are too delicate are probably referring to scratch-ability, and most kayak finishes will scratch easier than a fiberglass boat's gelcoat. Most of us finish our wood kayaks with varnish, which isn't very abrasion resistant. We live with it. We'd rather have a scratched wood kayak than a pristine 'glass kayak. Most of the scratches are on the lower part of the hull, so they're not as noticeable. If scratches bother you, you can paint the hull, which will hide scratches better. There are some very durable paints that come close to the scratch-resistance of the fiberglass boats' polyester gelcoat, but these are usually noxious chemicals that are dangerous to work with.

The wood kayak will likely be stronger if the epoxy and fiberglass cloth are laid up properly (don't get George started on this;-). By stronger, we usually mean more resistant to a crack or puncture that causes a leak, making for an emergency situation. We have heard of many stories right here on this bulletin board of people who have lost their kayak off their roof racks at highway speeds. This has resulted in scratches and some stress-whitening of the outer fiberglass cloth, but the kayaks have come out virtually intact. Someone only a couple of weeks ago posted that his truck with a couple wood kayaks on top had gone through a hailstorm. The truck's body was dented and the windshield cracked, but the kayaks came out fine!

But safety aside. Ain't them wood boats purdy? And cheap and light and something you can be proud to say you built. Even with scratches, you'll have people gathering around your car as you load & unload.

Dean

: I'm new to sea kayaking and have been thinking about building a stitch and
: glue boat. I recently talked to some people who said that they preferred
: fiberglass because wood boats are too delicate. the S & G kit
: manufactures claim that their boats are stronger than glass. Which is
: true?

: I'd love to hear your thoughts on this.

: Thanks,

: Al