Mike another vote for NH We may be small but number of boat builders per capita is wonderful

Hey I agree that you ought to build the 17s for both of ya. First, the 3 week gig s are better in bigger boats. Also if your doing stuff in the gulf of Maine for more then day trips your probboly looking at some big water crossings. The speed and extra stability of the 17's would be better unless your good at rolling fully loaded. Given that your beginers. I'd say the 17 is going to add options to the long crossing big water stuff.

You have enough room to build them in though it sounds like a big impact on the comfort of home. Be careful most home built airplanes and some home built boats have cost relationships. If it gets tough pick each other not the boats.

If your wife is athletic She should be able to handle the 17 well. At worst case on day trips you might need to weight her boat down a bit, but I'm guessing you won't have too.

Enjoy

!RUSS