: I'm researching my first kayak building project. I'm 5'9 and 180#.

Check out the CLC WestRiver 18 http://clcboats.com/boats/westriver.php

I built the precurser WR180 years ago and used it a lot. It would be good for your weight ahd height.

This boat is multi chined though and it is easier to glass the entire hull rather than taping just the joints, With this in mind 3mm ply, rather than 4mm will reduce your weight a little.

In regard to hatches. You will get a much better hatch fit if you use some cedar strips moulded over the deck in the appropriate spots and then glass them for stiffness, instead of bits of ply with formers under them. If you do some decoration on your cockpit the combination will add some decorative interest too. I have included a picture to illustrate the latter.

If this sounds confusing let me know and I will explain more carefully.

Etienne

Kerry Ireland