Me - 6'4", nearly 300 lb. (trying to shed a few), sz 12 feet.

Test-paddled the CLC Ches. 17 & 18 last year in flat water & mild wind & chop (15-20 kts, 1-ft waves)

I fit reasonably comfortably in the 17, but wanted a bit more room for gear. The 18's cockpit was bloody HUGE! (Have you tried the Necky Pinta? The Ches 18 is at least as roomy, and paddles quite a bit better IMO). The foredeck seemed "too high" (which is odd, considering my long torso). It didn't actually interfere with my stroke, but there wasn't as much clearance there as I'm used to.

I am now building the LT18 - it is 1" lower at the shear, and has a flatter aft deck. I'm moving the front bulkhead back about 6" (had to make a new one rather than using the one out of the kit). I'm also using the optional large cockpit coaming - not because I need the width (I fit fine in the standard) but for the length of the keyhole. I may need to order a custom spray deck, though.

With a big load of camping gear (a weekend is about 50 lb.)I'll probably ride a bit lower in the water than design spec. But it'll still be better than the Current Designs Storm that I'm now paddling. (with a full load, the bottom of the coaming is within 3" of the waterline. Spray skirt gets a workout.)

Hope that info helps.

Val