> I just finished a patuxent 17.5, I would assume that the 19.5 has similar
> handling, if so it has very little primary stability. I use a high volume
> boat for long trips, this is my play boat. The Chesapeake LT looks like a
> very good touring boat.

I also just finished a Patuxent 17.5, and had its first launch this weekend. I agree that it lacks initial stability. But, I had been paddling a 12.5'long, 25" wide tupperware container. Within an hour, the boat felt quite comfortable. I don't know about secondary stability, the water was too cold to try it. I am surprised at the gear capacity, especially the rear hatch. The boat could undoubtedly handle a weekend's worth of camping gear.

If I was to build another, I would add a layer of glass to the underside of the deck to give it strength and rigidity. The extra layer I added to the top of the deck helped, but I don't think it does enough.