Hello everyone,

This summer, I have some time off, and am looking to build a kayak. I've purchased Nick's book "The Strip-Built Sea Kayak" and can't wait to start. Even though I live near the coast of northern Massachusetts, I've never taken a kayak on the ocean. I was hoping for some advice on choosing a kayak to build.

There is a high chance this will be the only boat I have the opportunity to build for at least several more years, so I'd like a somewhat flexible and versatile design. This also means that though I'm inexperienced, I'd like to build a boat which will provide plenty of room for learning.

My imagined uses for the kayak are general exploring with one to two day trips along the coast and in marshes, though I'd love the flexibility to take it out for some extended trips. I'm 6' 2" and 180 lbs.

I've roughly narrowed down my search to the Guillemot, Guillemot L, and High Deck Night Heron. I'd like to hear your suggestions on which one to build, or just any thoughts in general on the various designs. I am absolutely open to other suggestions as well. I am precluding the Great Auk family because they aren't rated highly for surf - I'd like to be prepared for rough water and have some fun with the waves; let me know if this is poor reasoning.

Also, are there any thoughts on lofting the design myself from the book's numbers (only possible if I go with a Guillemot or Great Auk) versus purchasing plans?

Any help would be greatly appreciated. I'm a bit of a perfectionist and before sinking time and money into the project, I need to know I'm making the right decision.

Also, do you think that it's reasonable that I can build the kayak in under four weeks if working from 7:30 to 19:00-22:00? I've never built a boat or done major fiberglass work, but am quite good with my hands.

Are there any links to discussion or thoughts on whether or not to cove and bead? It seems like it would add a lot of time to the project - especially if artistic designs are used, and I'm not sure if I should go for it not.

Thank you,

Mike