You'll have more fun with a new design to build and paddle.

Unless she's as heavy as you are, the CHLT17 will be too big for her. Try the CHLT16, Squeedunk Cormorant 16, the new Arctic Tern 14, or Merganser 16., or like Ken said, build a S&G with a strip deck.

Strippers are no harder than S&G boats, but simply take a little more time. You have time now to get one done for summer paddling.

Maybe she would like the Redfish Silver, or a Guillemot?

Shawn

: Just finished a CHLT17 for myself and am considering different designs for my
: wife. I want a boat that is just a bit more challenging to build. Are
: there any designs anyone can think of? Should I just try building the same
: one from plans for somemore challenge? How about a Merganser with a strip
: deck?

: Thanks for the input

: -Mike