: Took my CLC 17LT out this past weekend, she was completed last November. I
: went out for a leisurely 18 mile trip with 5 other members of the club
: ,all paddling British style yaks. With wind gusts about 20 -25 knots , I
: found myself struggling to keep up with them. Noticed the Brits glide
: across the waves while my CLC punches through the waves, stroke for stroke
: I was outgunned by the Brits. Can someone explain what type of hull design
: they have ? Am currently building my first stripper Night Heron. It's
: about 70% complete .Has anyone out there compared the speed between the NH
: and the Brits? Any comments appreciated.

"the Brits" doesn't describe much but if you are able to paddle 18 miles in 20-25knot winds then the hull can't really be much of a limiting factor. The biggest difference I could speculate on is that a four panel hull will not be as forgiving in a range of rough conditions than a compound shaped hull. In other words for a collection of attributes from low wetted area to smooth hull shape that is reponsive to leaning for turning (assuming a rudder isn't a part of the package) to wave handling (smooth transitions in ends where breaking waves can have less leverage on the kayak) you'll find a better overall balance in a molded hull. The 17 isn't particularly responsive although it is stable. The ends are pretty much stuck whether you lean it or not but that doesn't really correlate to struggling unless you are struggling to stay on course. Do you have the experience of NOT struggling in kayaks that are generally recognized as "fast"?