Kurt, you're always welcome to visit here. Good fishing.

These boats were also my first experience with 2-part polyurethane, since I couldn't find good varnish. I'm converted now -- it's great. Goes on thicker, so covers up those little scratches that varnish wouldn't. Very scratch-resistant.

Also my first experience with butt-joined (bevelled) joints instead of bead and cove. I'll never do it again. B&C makes it so easy to eliminate steps between strips so reduces sanding, and you don't see as much light through the cracks.

Below is a shot of my friend John Leonard, a Peace Corps volunteer here in Fiji, in the second kayak. On deck he has a trolling spool, a bait-fishing bottle and a reef anchor.

Best regards,
John