: In the hands of the right paddler this is a very fast boat. The problem is
: that you have to paddled ICF boats for years to learn to balance in them.

I am just starting to look at my first book on SOF yak building (Morris). In it, I see that the Baidarka (did I spell it right?), with its 17" beam, isn't quite suited for beginners. Why, the damn thing doesn't even FLOAT UPRIGHT BY ITSELF!!! Reminds me of a quip I heard recently: "A kayak is an unstable boat with a hole in the bottom."

I want my next boat to be fast, but if'n I can't turn loose of my paddle without instantly turning turtle, I say the hell with it. I insist upon being able to enjoy blue skies while taking my tea afloat. I'll just have to learn to live a more relaxed lifestyle?

I guess all this helps me narrow my search down: what design out there is the fastest "hands-off" boat?

I think I now see how Gerald took the handle "Searcher", heheheh...

Kurt