I'm a complete novice but I'm going to build a wooden strip 'yak next spring. Paddling lessons/self rescues and such over this winter and spring are in the works. Build skill isn't an issue (I build victorian furniture) just no shop space at the moment.

My prob is I'm stuck between 2 diff designs. The first is the Cape Ann Storm by One Ocean Kayaks and the second is the Guillemot by Nick Schade. Here's the REAL problem. I'm 6'6" tall (evenly proportioned) 215# with a size 11 1/2" shoe and have a totally destroyed RT shoulder rotator cuff with movement/strength limitations.

I guess this means I need a big boat that's easy to move and glides well. I'll probably also need a rudder and a Greenland style paddle (to ease the stress on my shoulder). Plan is to do some impounds/lakes and maybe some quiet ocean/harbor/shoreline paddling. NO surf stuff but maybe some overnights.

What do you guys think? Would the Storm or the Guillemot be the better choice (or maybe recommend a 3d plan as better) for a busted-up novice? Thanks for any information.
Rob P.