Hello all. My girlfriend and I have decided to build two strip built kayaks. Both of us have limited experience kayaking, actually Robin has the paddling experience but I have the hammer and saw! With limited skills in boat building (link) and no insight in kayak design I am here hoping to find help choosing the proper model/mfr.

We will be in mostly protected waters, but occasionally transiting the Saint Johns River where wakes from commercial vessels are common. We are more interested in a utility/day trip design with emphasis on stability and maneuverability over performance.

Robin is around 5'3" and 135 pounds, I'm 6' and 270 pounds.

Your time is very appreciated.