Wow, that's cool! I have been asked by a number of people locally and online about sit-on-top wood kayaks. I was only aware of the one Nick designed. I really like the ones you linked to. They look less "clunky" and have nice proud wave-splitting bows. The outrigger is interesting. I actually have plans for an outrigger sailing canoe. Just have to finish other projects first. I think the SOT kayak with a single outrigger would be a great seller down here, and fairly easy and economical to build. Most folks here want sit-on-tops. They are both interested in catching the sun and as well I think a lot of folks are afraid of sit-in kayaks with all the spray skirt, rolling, and pumping out that goes along with them. Most folks down here want "beach cruisers." I would be very interested in a design that I could build for under $700 and sell for profit. Shipping a kayak here costs about $300. It gives me an edge on my profit margin. I wonder about doing a hybrid deck on one to dress it up.

As for surfskis I have used them and raced them. They are fast boats, very lightweight, but they are in my opinion more suited to flatwater paddling. I had the "hammerhead" bow on one that I borrowed for a lenthy time, and that really assisted in surfing to prevent pitch-poling. They just have very little freeboard and rounded hulls, so they're a bit tippy in rough water. Perhaps because the one I was using was a race kayak they may have others more suited for offshore, but in pictures they all seem to be very round shallow hulls. One thing for sure- wet exits and re-entry are very easy!