: I built the 19' Shearwater Baidarka going on about 10 years ago.
: Built from plans (no kit) the build was a great experience, just
: a series of steps, most if not all easier than I anticipated.
: Ended up with a great kayak that is everything and more than I
: had hoped for.

: I'm 6'-1" and tip 'em at 245. I've loaded the Baidarka for 8
: and 10 day trips (read heavy) with no issues at all. The
: multichine hull handles big waves and rough water amazingly
: well. At 19" in width I must admit it felt a little twitchy
: when I first started paddling it, but I now fish and do a huge
: amount of nature photography from it on Lake Winnipeg and in
: Netley Marsh where my summer cottage is located, with no issues
: or thoughts about stability at all.

: I wouldn't be fearful of the multichine designs they are really not
: that much more work.

: Enjoy picking your design and building your kayak. Don't over think
: it...you'll probably build another one or two anyway!!!

: Ken

Thanks Ken, that is very helpful information to me. Eric's current Baidarka designs feature a 21" beam. If your 19' x 19" model carries you well the 21" beam should suit me fine. I'm sure I will build more than one eventually though...