I'm sure it will paddle fine, depending on what the expectations for the design are, likely similar to Greenland kayaks which it resembles. I don't see anything that would make it particularly difficult to build as a skin on frame. It will probably be a rather attractive kayak when built. As others have said, the cockpit rim is the only strange part - if its not intended to be used with a spray skirt, then that shape may (?) be a little easier to create - otherwise it isn't really practical.

It is difficult to give much feedback from a non-dimensioned drawing alone. Can you tell us what it is being designed for, and what paddling/handling characteristics the builder wants it to have? What are its intended dimensions?

Creating a model in FREEShip may help shed some light on its potential speed/drag characteristics and stability while allowing the designer to double-check the cockpit placement and waterline.

Let's not forget, however, that just because a kayak was built in Greenland or is featured in Harvey's book, it will paddle well and have no undesirable traits. Using documented kayaks as inspiration is noble, but but it isn't likely to make the best kayak unless you get lucky or know a lot about hydrodynamics/kayak design already. If its being built to see what a kayak that might have been built in Greenland paddles like, then that is a different story altogether.

: A friend of mine sent me this drawing of a kayak he has been working on in
: CAD. He intends to build it in traditional skin-on-frame. The inspiration
: for the design came from a number of the drawings in Harvery Golden's
: book, "Kayaks of Greenland".

: So a question to all the experienced kayak designers out there: how will this
: thing perform? Tell us what you really think. Be honest and don't be
: afraid of hurting his feelings!

: Andrew