: Hi Kevin,
: I have a 17 foot kayak, but as I get older it gets harder to put on
: the roof of my car. As you seem at least ten years my senior I
: would look at as short as possible while still having enough
: space for overnight trips.
: I would think that 15 foot would be sufficient.
: If your design does not have a lot of rocker it will still travel
: well. A 17 footer has a higher theoretical hull speed, but you
: have to work harder as it is heavier. At normal paddle speeds it
: won't make any difference. It will probably be easier to paddle
: the shorter one at cruising speeds in fact.
: JohnK

Kevin
The weight difference between 15' and 17' is going to a out 5lb max. Unless the 5lb delta puts you over what you can comfortably, then I would strongly suggest the 17" due to the added carrying capacity. I've got a 17' Spring Run that I use for camping and I couldn't imagine giving up 2' of storage and still be able to carry the "comfort" gear I like to have with me. The longer boat will allow you to cover longer distances more efficiently giving you more range.

Just my thoughts.....

Bob Beaullieu