Now that I've got a good many paddles in the boat, and after today's experience I thought it apposite to post my review.

When I first put it in the water I was amazed how responsive it was in all directions. To that end, it was also difficult to track well at first w/o a skeg or rudder (still don't have one). Since, my skills and balance have been enhanced and this is no longer an issue. It is a fun boat to roll.

On Nick's site he states that the boat really comes alive in rough water. I hadn't appreciated that statement until recently. In December I had it in the Gulf of Mexico in some 2-3 foot waves which were a ton of fun. Today, here in NC we had 30+ mph winds (with gusts much higher) and on a local lake on the lee side I battled short steep 2-3' waves (with about a 2s period). These waves built with less than 2 mi fetch.

The Guillemot responded wonderfully. It almost felt like the curvature of the hull fit perfectly in the wave troughs. Carving the faces with a small amount of stern rudder was pure joy. I didn't have much trouble with rear quartering seas (which I have struggled with in lesser swell), and the boat surfed these short steep waves well. It was a complete blast.

If I never paddled rough water again I would consider building another boat. I 'm certain in the future I couldn't bring myself add a skeg or rudder. I would build something with no rocker and about 20" wide that I could get up to 7 knots.

Nonetheless, it's a wonderful boat with a bit of a learning curve. I just need to move closer to the ocean. However, the winter winds are fun.

: I just finished 95% of Nick's Guillemot. All that's left is a little sanding
: and some varnish, though I could wait no longer to get it wet. It
: certainly is a fun boat that I fit all my 6'5" into. My hat is off to
: Nick for this wonderful design. He was correct to warn visitors to his
: website of the extra time needed to load and unload a wooden boat at a
: public launch, due to 'parking lot syndrome.'

: On my second voyage I was blessed to see a large juvenile bald eagle and a
: larger adult. The adult flew about 20' directly above my head. What an
: experience!

: Thanks to all on the forum who guided through my moments of building
: uncertainty.

: ADaM