Dan:

I'm a newbie builder also, but have been kayaking on wisconsin rivers for 20 years with the occasional trip to the ocean. I used a 14' 9" touring kayak for all of it, but now I built a Great Awk. I take camping trips with the old kayak and can stuff many days worth into my little boat. I pack somewhere between backpacking and canoing. Use little tents, little stoves, etc. My G.A. floats, and I have had it out a couple of times, but it still needs more work before it is completely done. When compared to my old boat, it should hold more stuff, but the rear deck is much lower, I guess to shed the wind on the ocean. Hope this helps.. Scott