I am searching for the 'right boat' for me.....and have looked at Newfound Woodworks website, Jay Babina's design(looks great), and Nick Schades' designs(also look great)...as well as many others referenced at this site and other links. I am selling my Capella RM and essentially looking for similar features in a wood-strip model. I am 5'10", about 220lbs, size 12 shoe....look forward to using the boat in all settings including the ocean. I would greatly appreciate any suggestions as to models/designers/websites to check out?

I also have a question about the sprayskirt for a wood-strip boat. Is the fiberglass over wood design strong enough to use a traditional neoprene skirt? Does the contour/shape of the cockpit match up and hold up to the 'pull' of
traditional neoprene skirts?

All suggestions to this novice wood-strip kayak builder are truly welcomed!

Many thanks.... Bob