: I would be interested in suggestions of what boat to consider for my
: 5'4", 110 pound, 16 year old daughter. She is athletic and has good
: balance, flexibility, and coordination. She has paddled whitewater some
: since she was 10 or so. She breifly paddled my sea kayak (CH 17) and
: enjoyed it, but I am sure it isn't the best choice for her.

: I am not sure if she will use it more on the Chesapeake Bay or for poking
: around in smaller tributaries.

: Camping isn't a top priority, but the ability to carry gear for at least a
: weekend (and maybe a week) is a plus.

: The list of boats currently under consideration includes: CLC Chesapeake 16
: LT
: CLC Chesapeake 14
: Pygmy Tern 14

: I am open to other suggestions as well.

: I am close to CLC so I could save shipping if we decide on one of their
: designs. I am pretty familiar with them since I built myself a CH 17.

: I really like the looks of the Pygmy Tern 14. I have never built any of their
: boats (or even seen them in person). I am interested in any comments on
: their relative merits (both from a building and a paddling standpoint)?

: I haven't talked to her about the choice yet. I figured I would do a little
: homework first. The CLC boats are available locally to try, but there is
: no opportunity to try any of the Pygmy boats in the area (none that I know
: of anyway).

: Pete

Peter,
Go to shearwater-boats.com and check out the Merganser. I built my 18' Merganser three years ago and really like it. I think there are three different sizes. I know there's a 16 footer. The plans are around $85 and are easy to follow. Very nice looking boat.

Good Luck
Jim