I am contemplating building a Severn from the plans in the New Kayak Shop.

I have recently finished a CLC Westriver 162 and now have a need for another boat so that I can share the fun a little.

I noticed that the plans for the Severn show that the center section of the hull panels is cut parallel. I was wondering weather I could extend this section to lengthen the kayak (about a foot or so to help it keep up with the west river) without adversely affecting the handling of the boat.

I was also looking for comments on the paddling qualities and durability of this design. (the weight specified has me both impressed and worried).