Yo Myrl

Remember that I only launched my Guillemot once in a very unfinished state. However, I was impressed by its performance and consider that it will be a really good day cruising boat for me 210 lbs and 6'. I reckon it will sit fairly low with a stash of cruising gear, but should be ok for 3 - 4 days worth of adventures. 20 years ago I did a bit of cruising in a Nordkapp. With my conservative amount of camping gear it sat so low in the water that any passing boat throttled back to idle (for fear of sinking me). There was no way that I could indicate that I was just fine and the kayak was super seaworthy despite its looks. With that thought, I am confident enough to plan an expedition for Christmas (southern hemisphere summer) and can report back in due course.

Anyhow, my son 13 yrs weighs 53 kg (just over 100 lbs). He had no problems roaring around the place, spinning the Guillemot on the spot and inadvertantly surfing safely to shore with an ear to ear grin on his face.

I reckon that you could go ahead with the Guillemot and use it to refresh your fibreglassing skills and give it to your wife to use (when you are not out playing in it yourself).

Then you have the option of building another Guillemot or consider building yourself either an Expedition single or a great auk for serious gear carrying, if you think you need it.

If you are set on stitch and glue, Nicks brother Eric at
www.shearwater-boats.com

has a 19' baidarka which is interesting.

But then a pair of guillemots do make a fine sight and are matched ... ah the choices are endless

Good luck

Pete