John,

I would strongly recommend that you paddle the boat you think you want to build. Find someone in your area that will let you take a test paddle. I was all set to build a Guillemot until I paddled one and found it just didnt fit me right. Can you imagine spending all of those hours and not having your boat fit you?

Scot

: Hi All - I am planning to build my first kayak, something I have always been
: interested in. I have little experience in kayaking but am pretty
: comfortable in most non-powered (or human powered) boats so I think that
: it will not take me that long to get comfortable paddling...

: I would like to purchase a plans for a design but my big question is which
: one!!! Consideration are: - would like a sea kayak, strip built
: - I am 6' 3" tall
: - after getting more experienced I will definitely like to do some weekend or
: multi-day trips.
: - I live on Long Island, so will use it in the ocean and sound as well as
: upstate in lakes and rivers like the upper Hudson and Delaware.

: I think it is narrowed down to either the Guillemot or the Night Heron. Does
: anyone have an opinion or consideration? I have read allot of posts about
: the Guillemot but have not seen too many about the Night Heron...

: It seems that getting started could be the hardest part. Any advice would be
: appreciated!!!

: Thanks,
: -John