: I was thinking that the forward portion would orient above deck
: and would recess towards the rear with the deepest recess in the very

my first guess is always a recess at the front as it reduces sideview coaming curvature or allows more shape flexibility, but of course it depends on basic yak size/shape and intended cockpit size/shape. in this case the dimensions might be takeoffs of a greenland, meaning low front deck that may not be a good idea to recess and small cockpit that you need as much ht inside front as possible to slip in - in this case your lowered rear will make it way easier/stronger(because load can spread off coaming) to get(read slip too) in.

if it is a highish front deck consider recessing front also. maybe test out.