Dave:

Yeah, I guess I built a Cormorant LT. Trimming 3/4" off the
top of the shear panels is pretty simple, especially when
you're doing a cambered deck like I did. And it shouldn't
make any difference if you strip the deck, as you're thinking
of. If you use the plans for the chined deck then you've got
to make some adjustments. I really do prefer the lower windage
and weight. And, just my personal opinion, but the Cormorant
hull is the nicest looking of any of the hard-chined kayaks
I've seen.

Happy paddling, Peter