Can't stop thinking!!

The more I think the harder this gets. I'm now thinking that The Great Auk may be the boat for me. The idea of being able to pack gear for longer trips is quite appealing. How nimble is it compared to the Night Heron or Guillemot? I'm drawn to the Auk because of it's good tracking, but I guess that inherently means that it won't be as easy to maneuver.

I'm being sort of thrown off by the idea of the surf rating. I'm planning on heading out for one day or more to go exploring islands and the coast. Is the idea of 'surf' ability something which pertains solely to kayaking in rough water for fun, or is it also important for encountering rough water.

Again, any and all thoughts on these designs would be highly appreciated. If you'd like any more information from me, ask away!

Thanks,

Mike

: Hello everyone,

: This summer, I have some time off, and am looking to build a kayak. I've
: purchased Nick's book "The Strip-Built Sea Kayak" and can't wait
: to start. Even though I live near the coast of northern Massachusetts,
: I've never taken a kayak on the ocean. I was hoping for some advice on
: choosing a kayak to build.

: There is a high chance this will be the only boat I have the opportunity to
: build for at least several more years, so I'd like a somewhat flexible and
: versatile design. This also means that though I'm inexperienced, I'd like
: to build a boat which will provide plenty of room for learning.

: My imagined uses for the kayak are general exploring with one to two day
: trips along the coast and in marshes, though I'd love the flexibility to
: take it out for some extended trips. I'm 6' 2" and 180 lbs.

: I've roughly narrowed down my search to the Guillemot, Guillemot L, and High
: Deck Night Heron. I'd like to hear your suggestions on which one to build,
: or just any thoughts in general on the various designs. I am absolutely
: open to other suggestions as well. I am precluding the Great Auk family
: because they aren't rated highly for surf - I'd like to be prepared for
: rough water and have some fun with the waves; let me know if this is poor
: reasoning.

: Also, are there any thoughts on lofting the design myself from the book's
: numbers (only possible if I go with a Guillemot or Great Auk) versus
: purchasing plans?

: Any help would be greatly appreciated. I'm a bit of a perfectionist and
: before sinking time and money into the project, I need to know I'm making
: the right decision.

: Also, do you think that it's reasonable that I can build the kayak in under
: four weeks if working from 7:30 to 19:00-22:00? I've never built a boat or
: done major fiberglass work, but am quite good with my hands.

: Are there any links to discussion or thoughts on whether or not to cove and
: bead? It seems like it would add a lot of time to the project - especially
: if artistic designs are used, and I'm not sure if I should go for it not.

: Thank you,

: Mike