Hi Stephen

Irrespective of what George may say both strip and plywood are composite boats. The ultimate strength is probably proportional to both the designer and builder and assuming the builder follows the specifications.

One could build a ply hull/deck that would equal a missile and the same for a strip built boat.

I believe your skill level will define the boat for you to build. If you have good woodworking skills the strip boat is possibly the way to go. If your skills are lower then try a ply kayak or a ply kit.

If you have minimal skills then look for someone who runs a kayak building course.

Rob