Hi Chris,

I was browsing the latest Wooden Boat mag last night and found the E.M White 20' Y back that might be of interest. Definately not s&g, and way tougher than a stripper to build, but an extra seat and 2 rowing stations might speed the trip on days when max mileage are in order. At least a lot of good ideas there if it is not the right boat.

I would think that 2 months on the river would call for some pretty experienced paddlers, regardless of their age or the boat(s). The nastier bits could be handled by matching the crew to the conditions and loads better in seperate boats, and afford a rescue if one crew gets in trouble. Beyond that, 2 expedition canoes will likely see more use after the voyage than say that E.M. White 20, better economics. Just thought some one should mention the idea. Ultimately, Jorg knows his clan better than any of us and the final decision is his. I just hope that he remembers the trips section of this bbs and posts a report for the rest of us to drool over.

Tom