Well, it took longer than I thought it would-- four and a half months-- but the day finally came. My first ride in a kayak culminated with my first wet exit when my hat went overboard and I tried a little too hard to retrieve it. I was rescued by a passing boater before I could rescue myself, but I can see that self-rescue is something I'll need to practice. I would love to give a cogent run down of YP's performance, but since this was the first time I have ever been in a kayak, I have no basis for comparison. It floats. It doesn't seem to track very well, which surprised me because I designed in alot of vee, and gave her a vertical sternpost and not a huge amount of rocker. It will start to turn and then no matter which side or how hard I paddle, it continues to turn. This tendency is eliminated with the rudder down. There wereless than 5 kts. of wind, so I don't think I can blame weather cocking. It is entirely possible that this is an effect of poor paddling technique. I will be taking a beginner's kayak class soon, which I hope will straighten me out before I develop bad habits. As for vital statistics, I designed her myself at 18' length and 24" beam. She is quite heavy at 70+ lbs. which is probably the result of a couple of unnecessary bulkheads and the use of 7-1/2 oz. cloth on the outer hull. Next time I will do this better.