I've seen these referred to as 'swede form' (widest beam aft of cockpit) and 'fish form' (widest forward of cockpit). From what I understand, the 'fish form' is more directionally stable. I'm not sure of the advantages of the 'swede form'.

Ross

> I have occasionally seen pictures or description of canoes and
> kayaks which have their greatest beam aft of midships. This makes
> them very pretty, IMO, but are there any advantages to building a
> kayak with this shape? I have also heard of kayaks with the greatest
> beam forward. Same question? in a kayak with these shapes, do you
> move the position of the paddler accordingly?

> All the boats I have paddled (mostly canoes) have been symmetrical.
>

> Thanks in advance.