Hi howdy Matt,

I had the same problem with CLC's design for the Cape Charles. I am 6'2", and have to sit all the way to the back of the cockpit. The plywood backrest called for in the plans, did not curve enough to allow me to do this unless I wore so low that it didn't help at all. What I ended up using was a large piece of leather in place of the ply. To me, this is a whole lot more comfortable, because it's soft, and at the same time gives good support. Just hook it to your straps in place of the plywood, and your good to go.

I happened to have a piece laying around, because I am a leather worker too. If you can't find a source for leather, just buy a weight lifting belt, and cut off the narrow ends. That should work quite well, I would think.

This method however, does have a couple drawbacks. It does not stay upright very well when climbing in, and I end up sitting on it. I just haven't gotten around to lashing it to the coaming yet. (why do today, what you can put off till tomorrow)

Just a suggestion, good luck.

SYOTW,

Rick