Hi all,

Anyone out there tried modifying a Guillemot? and if so what was your experience with it. To be clear, I'm looking at the design that is in Nick's book (from offsets).

Here's what I'm considering. I've read here and there comments to the effect that the Guillemot is a great kayak, but could use some work in its tracking ability. I've looked at the forms and compared them to the drawings of other kayaks and well, i'm wondering if there's any harm in modifying the last couple of stations so that they come down lower and with a more vertical angle. I picture the profile in the stern would be changed to be less pointy and dip down to and under the waterline faster than the original design. I don't like the idea of putting a rudder on the kayak.

One thing I'm worried about is the added volume that will be below the waterline at the stern. I don't think its going to be a huge amount, but still there will be some and I'm wondering if this added volume needs to be countered with more volume at the bow, to maintain the same angle of attack (I don't know if thats the correct boating term... but you know what I mean) on the water.

Thanks in advance,
Joubin