{"title":"Kayak Chooser - Intermediate Touring","description":"\u003cp\u003eSuitable for \u003cspan\u003eLonger day trips, or weekend overnight cruises. You're looking for more speed and capability. You've worked with epoxy and fiberglass, and\/or you're a confident maker.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"chesapeake-14","title":"Chesapeake 14","description":"\u003cp\u003eMore than 9,000 Chesapeake-series kayak kits have been shipped since 1996. The Chesapeake 14 is the smallest of a series that varies in length from 14 to 21', and in hull weight from 36 to 68 lbs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks.  Easy to build with sleek lines, their \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-volume bows lift you over rough seas\u003c\/strong\u003e -- or powerboat wakes -- while the skeg-like stern prevents weather-cocking in blustery winds. CLC's signature cambered decks shed spray, increase the storage space inside the hull, add strength without weight, and look great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge storage compartments\u003c\/strong\u003e will absorb enough gear and water for long, unsupported expeditions. Cockpits are large and easy to pad out for a custom fit. The big, comfortable cockpit is an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon if multi-week expeditions aren't your speed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of our Chesapeake kayak builders  tell us about their\u003cstrong\u003e explorations of quiet local rivers\u003c\/strong\u003e, others have gone on great adventures, including a few who have paddled the length of the Sea of Cortez. They are \u003cstrong\u003eused in expeditions\u003c\/strong\u003e above the Arctic Circle and for day paddling in Florida.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes are \u003cstrong\u003ebuilt to endure a lifetime of strenuous touring\u003c\/strong\u003e with their 4mm-okoume-plywood hulls and decks, which are both sheathed with fiberglass. Watertight bulkheads are standard, as are hatches, deck rigging, adjustable footbraces, and a comfortable seat. One reason so many builders prefer the Chesapeakes is their flexible architecture, unique among kit boats. Experienced builders may \u003cstrong\u003ecustomize every part of the boat above the waterline\u003c\/strong\u003e, whether building from a kit or plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes have been built in garages, apartments, living rooms, television studios, and in at least 50 countries from Iceland to Australia. You can watch a video of a Chesapeake kayak being built from start to finish \u003ca title=\"How-To-Build Video of Chesapeake kayaks\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eWxeNLIoric\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual kayak fit is very important, so there are \u003cstrong\u003esix singles, two doubles, and a tripl\u003c\/strong\u003ee to choose from. The 16LT and 17LT are standard Chesapeake 16 and 17 hulls with lower decks and sides, reducing total volume by 20% for a sleeker, more compact kayak. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall sea kayaks are often just cute versions of larger, more serious boats. The \u003cstrong\u003eChesapeake 14™\u003c\/strong\u003e is a serious kayak in its own right, designed specifically for kids and small-statured adults who don't want to be left behind by the big boats. Hundreds of builders have registered delight at the Chesapeake 14's combination of speed, stability, and tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSix young teenagers were given the chance to paddle and then review the Chesapeake 14™ among a fleet of 6 other kayaks; \"The entire team commented positively about this boat's comfort . . . All of the team found the Chesapeake 14™ to be very stable . . . Everyone agreed that this was the fastest kayak of those tested . . .\"\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"Sea Kayaker Magazine, June 2001 issue\" href=\"\/blogs\/news\/kayaks-for-kids-a-review-of-seven-models\"\u003esee what each reviewer had to say\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e-\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSea Kayaker, June 2001\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak?\u003cstrong\u003e  \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173978870053,"sku":"1529-6459","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/chesapeake-14-kayak_new-lead.jpg?v=1749809140"},{"product_id":"chesapeake-16","title":"Chesapeake 16","description":"\u003cp\u003eMore than 9,000 Chesapeake-series kayak kits have been shipped since 1996. The  series varies in length from 14' to 21', and in hull weight from 36 to 68 lbs. The \u003cstrong\u003eChesapeake 16 comes in two versions. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e16\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003e16LT\u003c\/strong\u003e both weigh 42  lbs, but the \u003cstrong\u003e16 has a larger volume\u003c\/strong\u003e than the 16LT, so it has a larger cockpit and more storage volume than the 16 LT does. It can\u003cstrong\u003e carry more gear and comfortably fits paddlers up to 180 pounds\u003c\/strong\u003e in the cockpit. People with shoes larger than a size 10 will not fit in the 16LT, but the 16 will fit paddlers with shoes up to size 13.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks.  Easy to build with sleek lines, their \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-volume bows lift you over rough seas\u003c\/strong\u003e -- or powerboat wakes -- while the skeg-like stern prevents weather-cocking in blustery winds. CLC's signature cambered decks shed spray, increase the storage space inside the hull, add strength without weight, and look great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge storage compartments\u003c\/strong\u003e will absorb enough gear and water for long, unsupported expeditions. Cockpits are large and easy to pad out for a custom fit. The big, comfortable cockpit is an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon if multi-week expeditions aren't your speed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of our Chesapeake kayak builders  tell us about their\u003cstrong\u003e explorations of quiet local rivers\u003c\/strong\u003e, others have gone on great adventures, including a few who have paddled the length of the Sea of Cortez. They are \u003cstrong\u003eused in expeditions\u003c\/strong\u003e above the Arctic Circle and for day paddling in Florida.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes are \u003cstrong\u003ebuilt to endure a lifetime of strenuous touring\u003c\/strong\u003e with their 4mm-okoume-plywood hulls and decks, which are both sheathed with fiberglass. Watertight bulkheads are standard, as are hatches, deck rigging, adjustable footbraces, and a comfortable seat. One reason so many builders prefer the Chesapeakes is their flexible architecture, unique among kit boats. Experienced builders may \u003cstrong\u003ecustomize every part of the boat above the waterline\u003c\/strong\u003e, whether building from a kit or plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes have been built in garages, apartments, living rooms, television studios, and in at least 50 countries from Iceland to Australia. You can watch a video of a Chesapeake kayak being built from start to finish \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eWxeNLIoric\" title=\"Building a Stitch-and-Glue Kayak video series on YouTube\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.clcboats.com\/default\/building-stitch-and-glue-kayak.html\"\u003e.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual kayak fit is very important, so there are \u003cstrong\u003esix singles, two doubles, and a tripl\u003c\/strong\u003ee to choose from. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16lt\" title=\"Chesapeake 16LT\"\u003e16LT\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17lt\" title=\"Chesapeake 17LT\"\u003e17LT\u003c\/a\u003e are standard \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16\" title=\"Chesapeake 16\"\u003eChesapeake 16\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17\" title=\"Chesapeake\"\u003eChesapeake 17\u003c\/a\u003e hulls  with lower decks and sides, reducing their total volume by 20% for a sleeker, more compact kayak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173978968357,"sku":"8219-4755","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/chesapeake-16-kayak_new-lead.jpg?v=1748377928"},{"product_id":"chesapeake-16lt","title":"Chesapeake 16LT","description":"\u003cp\u003eMore than 9,000 Chesapeake-series kayak kits have been shipped since 1996. The  series varies in length from 14' to 21', and in hull weight from 36 to 68 lbs. The \u003cstrong\u003eChesapeake 16 comes in two versions. \u003c\/strong\u003e The \u003cstrong\u003e16 \u003c\/strong\u003eand \u003cstrong\u003e16LT\u003c\/strong\u003e both weigh 42  lbs. The 16 has a slightly larger cockpit, a bit more knee room, and can take paddlers up to 180 lbs. and those with shoes as large size 13.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 16LT has a slightly smaller capacity with a \u003cstrong\u003emaximum of 160 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e. It was designed as a Light Touring kayak, with lower decks than the 16 and less interior volume.  The cockpit and knee room are slightly smaller, so the 16 LT is intended for paddlers with a shoe size of 10 or less. By reducing this volume, the lower sides mean \u003cstrong\u003eless windage\u003c\/strong\u003e, so the \u003cstrong\u003e16LT is sleeker and more nimble than the 16\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks.  Easy to build with sleek lines, their \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-volume bows lift you over rough seas\u003c\/strong\u003e -- or powerboat wakes -- while the skeg-like stern prevents weather-cocking in blustery winds. CLC's signature cambered decks shed spray, increase the storage space inside the hull, add strength without weight, and look great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge storage compartments\u003c\/strong\u003e will absorb enough gear and water for long, unsupported expeditions. Cockpits are large and easy to pad out for a custom fit. The big, comfortable cockpit is an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon if multi-week expeditions aren't your speed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of our Chesapeake kayak builders  tell us about their\u003cstrong\u003e explorations of quiet local rivers\u003c\/strong\u003e, others have gone on great adventures, including a few who have paddled the length of the Sea of Cortez. They are \u003cstrong\u003eused in expeditions\u003c\/strong\u003e above the Arctic Circle and for day paddling in Florida.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes are \u003cstrong\u003ebuilt to endure a lifetime of strenuous touring\u003c\/strong\u003e with their 4mm-okoume-plywood hulls and decks, which are both sheathed with fiberglass. Watertight bulkheads are standard, as are hatches, deck rigging, adjustable footbraces, and a comfortable seat. One reason so many builders prefer the Chesapeakes is their flexible architecture, unique among kit boats. Experienced builders may \u003cstrong\u003ecustomize every part of the boat above the waterline\u003c\/strong\u003e, whether building from a kit or from plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes have been built in garages, apartments, living rooms, television studios, and in at least 50 countries from Iceland to Australia. You can watch a video of a Chesapeake kayak being built from start to finish \u003ca title=\"Building a Stitch-and-Glue Kayak -- Complete Video\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eWxeNLIoric\u0026amp;t=2s\"\u003ehere.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual kayak fit is very important, so we have designed \u003cstrong\u003esix singles, two doubles, and a triple\u003c\/strong\u003e to choose from. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16lt\" title=\"Chesapeake 16LT\"\u003e16LT\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17lt\" title=\"Chesapeake 17LT\"\u003e17LT\u003c\/a\u003e are standard \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16\" title=\"Chesapeake 16\"\u003eChesapeake 16\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17\" title=\"Chesapeake\"\u003eChesapeake 17\u003c\/a\u003e hulls  with lower decks and sides, reducing their total volume by 20% for a sleeker, more compact kayak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173979001125,"sku":"9665-4213","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/chesapeake-16lt-kayak_new-lead.jpg?v=1748373593"},{"product_id":"chesapeake-17","title":"Chesapeake 17","description":"\u003cp\u003eMore than 9,000 Chesapeake-series kayak kits have been shipped since 1996. The  series varies in length from 14' to 21', and in hull weight from 36 to 68 lbs. The \u003cstrong\u003eChesapeake 17 comes in two versions. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e The \u003cstrong\u003e17\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003e17LT\u003c\/strong\u003e both weigh 45  lbs, but the \u003cstrong\u003e17 has a larger volume\u003c\/strong\u003e than the 17LT, so it has a larger cockpit and more storage volume than the 17 LT does. It can\u003cstrong\u003e carry more gear and comfortably fits paddlers up to 250 pounds\u003c\/strong\u003e in the cockpit. People with a shoes larger than a size 13 will not fit in the 17LT, but the 17 will fit paddlers with shoes up to size 14.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks.  Easy to build with sleek lines, their \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-volume bows lift you over rough seas\u003c\/strong\u003e -- or powerboat wakes -- while the skeg-like stern prevents weather-cocking in blustery winds. CLC's signature cambered decks shed spray, increase the storage space inside the hull, add strength without weight, and look great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge storage compartments\u003c\/strong\u003e will absorb enough gear and water for long, unsupported expeditions. Cockpits are large and easy to pad out for a custom fit. The big, comfortable cockpit is an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon if multi-week expeditions aren't your speed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of our Chesapeake kayak builders  tell us about their\u003cstrong\u003e explorations of quiet local rivers\u003c\/strong\u003e, others have gone on great adventures, including a few who have paddled the length of the Sea of Cortez. They are \u003cstrong\u003eused in expeditions\u003c\/strong\u003e above the Arctic Circle and for day paddling in Florida.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes are \u003cstrong\u003ebuilt to endure a lifetime of strenuous touring\u003c\/strong\u003e with their 4mm-okoume-plywood hulls and decks, which are both sheathed with fiberglass. Watertight bulkheads are standard, as are hatches, deck rigging, adjustable footbraces, and a comfortable seat. One reason so many builders prefer the Chesapeakes is their flexible architecture, unique among kit boats. Experienced builders may \u003cstrong\u003ecustomize every part of the boat above the waterline\u003c\/strong\u003e, whether building from a kit or plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes have been built in garages, apartments, living rooms, television studios, and in at least 50 countries from Iceland to Australia. You can watch a video of a Chesapeake kayak being built from start to finish \u003ca title=\"Building a Stitch-and-Glue Kayak video series on YouTube\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eWxeNLIoric\"\u003ehere.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual kayak fit is very important, so there are \u003cstrong\u003esix singles, two doubles, and a tripl\u003c\/strong\u003ee to choose from. The \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 16LT\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16lt\"\u003e16LT\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 17LT\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17lt\"\u003e17LT\u003c\/a\u003e are standard \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 16\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16\"\u003eChesapeake 16\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17\"\u003eChesapeake 17\u003c\/a\u003e hulls  with lower decks and sides, reducing their total volume by 20% for a sleeker, more compact kayak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173979033893,"sku":"6359-8783","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/chesapeake17_new-lead.jpg?v=1747946174"},{"product_id":"chesapeake-17lt","title":"Chesapeake 17LT","description":"\u003cp\u003eMore than 9,000 Chesapeake-series kayak kits have been shipped since 1996. The series varies in length from 14' to 21', and in hull weight from 36 to 68 lbs. The \u003cstrong\u003eChesapeake 17 comes in two versions. \u003c\/strong\u003e The 17 and 17LT both \u003cstrong\u003eweigh 45 lbs,\u003c\/strong\u003e with the 17 having a slightly larger cockpit, a bit more knee room and the capacity to take paddlers up to 250 lbs. compared to the 220-pound maximum for the 17LT.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e17LT \u003c\/strong\u003ewas designed as a Light Touring kayak, with lower decks than the 17 and less interior volume.  The cockpit and knee room are slightly smaller, so the 17 LT is intended for paddlers up to 220 pounds with a shoe size of 13 or less. By reducing this volume, the lower sides mean \u003cstrong\u003eless windage\u003c\/strong\u003e, so the \u003cstrong\u003e17LT is sleeker and more nimble than the 17\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks.  Easy to build with sleek lines, their \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-volume bows lift you over rough seas\u003c\/strong\u003e -- or powerboat wakes -- while the skeg-like stern prevents weather-cocking in blustery winds. CLC's signature cambered decks shed spray, increase the storage space inside the hull, add strength without weight, and look great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge storage compartments\u003c\/strong\u003e will absorb enough gear and water for long, unsupported expeditions. Cockpits are large and easy to pad out for a custom fit. The big, comfortable cockpit is an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon if multi-week expeditions aren't your speed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of our Chesapeake kayak builders  tell us about their\u003cstrong\u003e explorations of quiet local rivers\u003c\/strong\u003e, others have gone on great adventures, including a few who have paddled the length of the Sea of Cortez. They are \u003cstrong\u003eused in expeditions\u003c\/strong\u003e above the Arctic Circle and for day paddling in Florida.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes are \u003cstrong\u003ebuilt to endure a lifetime of strenuous touring\u003c\/strong\u003e with their 4mm-okoume-plywood hulls and decks, which are both sheathed with fiberglass. Watertight bulkheads are standard, as are hatches, deck rigging, adjustable footbraces, and a comfortable seat. One reason so many builders prefer the Chesapeakes is their flexible architecture, unique among kit boats. Experienced builders may \u003cstrong\u003ecustomize every part of the boat above the waterline\u003c\/strong\u003e, whether building from a kit or plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes have been built in garages, apartments, living rooms, television studios, and in at least 50 countries from Iceland to Australia. You can watch a video of a Chesapeake kayak being built from start to finish \u003ca title=\"Building a Stitch-and-Glue Kayak video series on YouTube\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eWxeNLIoric\"\u003ehere.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual kayak fit is very important, so there are \u003cstrong\u003esix singles, two doubles, and a tripl\u003c\/strong\u003ee to choose from. The \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 16LT\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16lt\"\u003e16LT\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 17LT\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17lt\"\u003e17LT\u003c\/a\u003e are standard \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 16\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16\"\u003eChesapeake 16\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17\"\u003eChesapeake 17\u003c\/a\u003e hulls  with lower decks and sides, reducing their total volume by 20% for a sleeker, more compact kayak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173979099429,"sku":"1952-4185","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/chesapeake-17lt_new-lead.jpg?v=1747943587"},{"product_id":"chesapeake-18","title":"Chesapeake 18","description":"\u003cp\u003eMore than 9,000 Chesapeake-series kayak kits have been shipped since 1996. The \u003cstrong\u003eChesapeake 18\u003c\/strong\u003e is the largest of the single kayaks in this series that varies in length from 14' to 21', and in hull weight from 36 to 68 lbs. The \u003cstrong\u003eChesapeake 18 can carry paddlers weighing up to 270 lbs with shoe sizes up to 14. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks.  Easy to build with sleek lines, their \u003cstrong\u003ehigh-volume bows lift you over rough seas\u003c\/strong\u003e -- or powerboat wakes -- while the skeg-like stern prevents weather-cocking in blustery winds. CLC's signature cambered decks shed spray, increase the storage space inside the hull, add strength without weight, and look great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge storage compartments\u003c\/strong\u003e will absorb enough gear and water for long, unsupported expeditions. With a maximum payload of 350 lbs, the Chesapeake 18 can carry plenty of gear for a days-long adventure. Cockpits are large and easy to pad out for a custom fit. The big, comfortable cockpit is an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon if multi-week expeditions aren't your speed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany of our Chesapeake kayak builders  tell us about their\u003cstrong\u003e explorations of quiet local rivers\u003c\/strong\u003e, others have gone on great adventures, including a few who have paddled the length of the Sea of Cortez. They are \u003cstrong\u003eused in expeditions\u003c\/strong\u003e above the Arctic Circle and for day paddling in Florida.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes are \u003cstrong\u003ebuilt to endure a lifetime of strenuous touring\u003c\/strong\u003e with their 4mm-okoume-plywood hulls and decks, which are both sheathed with fiberglass. Watertight bulkheads are standard, as are hatches, deck rigging, adjustable footbraces, and a comfortable seat. One reason so many builders prefer the Chesapeakes is their flexible architecture, unique among kit boats. Experienced builders may \u003cstrong\u003ecustomize every part of the boat above the waterline\u003c\/strong\u003e, whether building from a kit or plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChesapeakes have been built in garages, apartments, living rooms, television studios, and in at least 50 countries from Iceland to Australia. You can watch a video of a Chesapeake kayak being built from start to finish \u003ca title=\"Building a Stitch-and-Glue Kayak video series on YouTube\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eWxeNLIoric\"\u003ehere.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual kayak fit is very important, so there are \u003cstrong\u003esix singles, two doubles, and a tripl\u003c\/strong\u003ee to choose from. The \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 16LT\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16lt\"\u003e16LT\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 17LT\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17lt\"\u003e17LT\u003c\/a\u003e are standard \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake 16\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-16\"\u003eChesapeake 16\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca title=\"Chesapeake\" href=\"\/products\/chesapeake-17\"\u003eChesapeake 17\u003c\/a\u003e hulls with lower decks and sides, reducing total volume by 20% for a sleeker, more compact kayak. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173979197733,"sku":"7252-6423","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/chesapeake-18_new-lead.jpg?v=1747930407"},{"product_id":"hybrid-night-heron","title":"Hybrid Night Heron","description":"\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eHybrid Night Heron\u003c\/strong\u003e combines the quick assembly of the stitch-and-glue hull and the\u003cstrong\u003e beauty of a strip-built deck\u003c\/strong\u003e. The hull is exactly the same as the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/stitch-glue-night-heron\" title=\"Stitch-and-Glue Heron\"\u003eS\u0026amp;G Night Heron\u003c\/a\u003e and the deck is exactly the same as the strip-built version. Since stitch-and-glue construction is generally quicker than strip, this hybrid goes together more quickly than a fully stripped hull. Since the strips look better to a lot of people than the plywood, the hybrid puts the beauty where you will see it, on top.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBecause the hull shape is the same as the stitch and glue version, the performance will be the same. \u003cstrong\u003eThis boat is fast and efficient, tracks straight and carves turns easily\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOur strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead \u0026amp; cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Bead-and-cove strips are available in a variety of wood types.\" href=\"%20\/products\/bead-and-cove-strips\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eOptional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173981622565,"sku":"4668-2971","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/night-heron-hybrid_new-lead.jpg?v=1747146998"},{"product_id":"hybrid-night-heron-high-deck","title":"Hybrid Night Heron - High Deck","description":"\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003eAs the name indicates, the \u003cstrong\u003eHybrid Night Heron - High Deck\u003c\/strong\u003e is a \u003cstrong\u003ehigher-decked version of the Hybrid Night Heron\u003c\/strong\u003e, for taller paddlers who need more knee and leg room. A hybrid version of the Night Heron, combining a stitch-and-glue hull with the beauty of a strip-built deck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOur strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead \u0026amp; cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/clcboats.com\/products\/bead-and-cove-strips\" title=\"Bead-and-cove strips in a variety of wood types\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eOptional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173981688101,"sku":"3089-44","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/night-heron-hybrid-hd_new-lead.jpg?v=1747145993"},{"product_id":"petrel-play-sg","title":"Petrel Play SG","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLittle by little, designers like Nick Schade are squeezing huge performance out of compact dimensions. This is good news as \u003cstrong\u003epaddlers are demanding more versatility and performance from their sea kayaks\u003c\/strong\u003e these days. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ePetrel Play SG\u003c\/strong\u003e is just 14' long, a length once reserved for recreational kayaks. But Nick’s ingenious shaping of plywood panels has resulted in a design that offers \u003cstrong\u003eworld-class handling in the surf\u003c\/strong\u003e AND a \u003cstrong\u003ecomfortable cockpit\u003c\/strong\u003e for recreational paddling AND \u003cstrong\u003ecan be built by an intermediate woodworker\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e“The \u003cstrong\u003ePetrel Play SG \u003c\/strong\u003eis a great boat to play with in big waves and rock gardens,” Nick Schade says. With a little extra width and quite a bit of flare to the hull,\" he adds, “It will keep up just fine at a moderate pace cruising and has \u003cstrong\u003egood stability in waves\u003c\/strong\u003e, with the ability to lean comfortably.” The Petrel Play will appeal to paddlers of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Petrel Play SG is built \u003cstrong\u003estitch-and-glue fashion\u003c\/strong\u003e, with computer-cut hull parts literally assembled like a jigsaw puzzle. “The amount of sculptural detail in the Petrel Play is amazing,” says John C. Harris of Chesapeake Light Craft. “Nick has pushed the realm of what’s possible in plywood to another level.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Puzzle joints\"---one of Schade's signature design motifs---give the Petrel Play great artistic flair. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/news\/review-of-petrel-kayaks-in-sea-kayaker-magazine\" title=\"Sea Kayaker magazine reviews two of Nick Schade's stitch-and-glue kayaks in its last issue\"\u003eCheck out the review in Sea Kayaker's final issue!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ca class=\"fancybox\" href=\"https:\/\/www.clcboats.com\/images\/carousel\/crop46\/1-seakayaker---feb-march-2014_petrelplay-review.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" width=\"250\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/clcboats.com\/images\/carousel\/crop46\/1-1-seakayaker---feb-march-2014_petrelplay-review-001.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eThe front half of the Petrel Play is multi-chined, for an efficient balance of low-drag buoyancy and minimal resistance. The aft half of the kayak has a firm single chine, perfect for carving turns and surfing, and for excellent secondary stability. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFunctional details also make this kayak kit substantially unique in that busy niche of the kayak world. \u003cstrong\u003eWatertight hatches\u003c\/strong\u003e are recessed in the forward and aft decks and are standard in the kit. Without penalizing the kayak’s ability in rough water, these hatches will allow light camping expeditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eLarge paddlers will find \u003cstrong\u003egenerous knee- and foot-room\u003c\/strong\u003e. The cockpit has been recessed to make rolling easier in expert hands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173988012325,"sku":"9114-3432","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/performace-kayaks-collection-icon.jpg?v=1759942688"},{"product_id":"petrel-play-sg-l","title":"Petrel Play SG-L","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt can be hard to find the right boat if you don’t fit in the middle of the bell curve.  If your body size runs towards the larger end of the spectrum, there are not many choices available for performance sea kayaks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ePetrel Play SG-L \u003c\/strong\u003eis scaled up version of the \u003ca title=\"Petrel Play SG\" href=\"\/products\/petrel-play-sg\"\u003ePetrel Play SG\u003c\/a\u003e that is designed for heavier paddlers who want to play around in tide races or maybe explore some rock gardens, it will be maneuverable and responsive. The cockpit is larger for comfort and easier access.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eadditional volume \u003c\/strong\u003eneeded to carry a heavier displacement is\u003cstrong\u003e achieved by increasing the length, width, and height\u003c\/strong\u003e relative to the standard Petrel Play. At 16' the kayak will still be easy to turn, and have a good top speed. The width of 25\" is not so wide that it becomes hard to paddle, the deck is still sloped in at the sides to minimize the apparent width at the catch of the paddle stroke. We have flattened the bottom and reduced the flare of the hull to maximize the width for displacement while still allowing the kayak to be edged in turns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Petrel Play SG-L is\u003cstrong\u003e designed for paddlers who weigh between 250 to 350 lbs [115 to 160kg].\u003c\/strong\u003e It is also suitable for taller than average paddlers who need room for long legs and feet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis variation retains the transitional chine of the other Petrel designs. The multi-chined bow section \u003cstrong\u003erides smoothly over waves\u003c\/strong\u003e and minimizes locking in the bow while surfing. The hard single-chine creates a \u003cstrong\u003egood control surface for edging turns\u003c\/strong\u003e while providing good support while surfing down waves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a great all-around kayak for heavier paddlers who are \u003cstrong\u003eseeking high performance characteristics in rough water\u003c\/strong\u003e. That does not mean that it is unsuitable for calm water and relaxed paddling. It is a comfortable platform that won’t let you down regardless of where you dip your paddle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173988110629,"sku":"4247-6095","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/petrel-play-sgl_new-lead.jpg?v=1746622622"},{"product_id":"petrel-sg","title":"Petrel SG","description":"\u003cp\u003eNick Schade’s line of strip-planked Greenland-style sea kayaks are renowned for sophisticated performance on the water, beautiful lines, and sculptural hull details. But strip-planked boatbuilding is not for everyone. Novice woodworkers and weekend hobbyists with limited free time may be reluctant to take on the complex original\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"Petrel kayak kit\" href=\"\/products\/petrel\"\u003ePetrel kayak\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edesign. The solution is a plywood version of the 17-foot Petrel, designed with great deliberation to retain the strip-planked original's point-and-shoot handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original Nick Schade \u003cstrong\u003ePetrel design, a slippery 17' X 20\" sea kayak\u003c\/strong\u003e equally at home as a fast cruiser or surfing in the break zone, is not a project for the timid boatbuilder. In that design, cedar strips\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eenclose an undulating shape with functional \"chines\" that allow carved turns like a classic West Greenland kayak. \"Great looks and handling, but requires an advanced builder,\" Nick Schade says.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ePetrel SG\u003c\/strong\u003e is the new stitch-and-glue version of the Petrel. It eliminates the fussy strip-planking procedure, which involves cutting and fitting scores of individual cedar strips over a mold. Instead, computer-cut plywood panels for the hull and deck are stitched together with wire, then reinforced with epoxy and fiberglass. The simplified plywood hull has its own sculptural qualities and loses none of the performance of the original.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile easier to build than it is to build a strip-planked kayak, we don't recommend the Petrel SG as a first-time boatbuilding project. A simpler stitch-and-glue boat or two, and a solid foundation in fiberglassing, is suggested before taking this on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Petrel SG offers features not found in any other kayak kit.  Recessed\u003cstrong\u003e Seadog hatches fore and aft, \u003c\/strong\u003eAND a recessed \u003cstrong\u003eSeadog day hatch\u003c\/strong\u003e are standard.  The cockpit is also recessed to make rolling easier.  A\u003cstrong\u003e retractable skeg\u003c\/strong\u003e is also standard in the kit.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I’m excited at how it came out,” Schade says. “The Stitch-and-Glue Petrel is \u003cstrong\u003eas faithful a reproduction of the original Petrel \u003c\/strong\u003eas I could manage in plywood.” Schade maintained the same profile and plan shape and reproduced the transitioning chine of the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"strip planked kayak kit\" href=\"https:\/\/www.clcboats.com\/shop\/boats\/strip-planked-kayaks\/petrel\/petrel-strip-planked-sea-kayak-kit.html\"\u003estrip-planked Petrel\u003c\/a\u003e with multiple chines forward tapering to a single hard chine behind. He also incorporated a retractable skeg and recessed hatches in the deck, including a day hatch behind the cockpit. \"Puzzle joints\"---one of Schade's signature design motifs---give the Petrel SG great artistic flair. \"It is absolutely unique in the kayak kit world,\" Schade says.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173988143397,"sku":"4879-5397","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/petrel-sg_new-lead.jpg?v=1746562316"},{"product_id":"shearwater-16-hybrid","title":"Shearwater 16 Hybrid","description":"\u003cp\u003eCedar-strip kayaks are admired for their beauty and functionality.  Kayaks made entirely of cedar strips require a “strongback” and special molds, which translates into a lot of skilled labor and time.  Why not combine the best qualities of stitch-and-glue plywood kayaks with the beauty of a cedar-strip deck?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is exactly what we have done with the Shearwater Hybrid kayak kits.  We took the standard Shearwater’s graceful hull lines and added a strip-planked deck.  The resulting hybrid of strip and plywood techniques combines the look of a cedar-strip hull with the speedy assembly and great handling of a West Greenland-style hull.  The Shearwater Hybrid is a kayak with elegance and individuality. Since the hull forms the “strongback” for constructing the strip-planked deck, assembly time is a fraction of an all-strip hull.  Our \u003cstrong\u003eShearwater 16 Hybrid\u003c\/strong\u003e display model took only about 100 hours from start to finish!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere’s how it works.  The Shearwater Hybrid’s hull is identical to the standard Shearwater’s, with computer-cut BS 1088 Okoume panels assembled with “finger joints” so it goes together very, very quickly.  Computer-cut molds are set into the hull with temporary hot glue.  These molds shape and support the deck during construction.  With the kit, we include 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar strips. The strips are milled with a “bead and cove” joint so that one slides into the next for perfect joinery.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the deck pattern has been established and glued together, the entire deck is gently taken off the hull and the underside fiberglassed.  The molds are removed from the hull, then the deck epoxied back in place, atop structural “sheer clamps.”  Finally, the top of the strip deck is fiberglassed and the cockpit and hatches are added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs paddling boats, the Shearwaters are sophisticated and fast.  On the water, the Shearwater demonstrates excellent poise and responsiveness in a broad range of conditions, edging turns easily when leaned but tracking is straight when pushed hard in surfing conditions. The narrow beam and low profile translates into fewer corrective strokes and more paddling energy spent on covering ground.  The speed and relatively narrow beam means the Shearwaters are not beginner paddling boats, but athletic paddlers and paddlers with intermediate skills will find them an excellent fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead \u0026amp; cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. \u003ca title=\"Bead-and-cove strips are available in a variety of wood types.\" href=\"\/products\/bead-and-cove-strips\"\u003eOptional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173989028133,"sku":"6682-5075","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/shearwater-16-hybrid_new-lead.jpg?v=1746476158"},{"product_id":"shearwater-17-hybrid","title":"Shearwater 17 Hybrid","description":"\u003cp\u003eCedar-strip kayaks are admired for their beauty and functionality.  Kayaks made entirely of cedar strips require a “strongback” and special molds, which translates into a lot of skilled labor and time.  Why not combine the best qualities of stitch-and-glue plywood kayaks with the beauty of a cedar-strip deck?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is exactly what we have done with the \u003cstrong\u003eShearwater Hybrid\u003c\/strong\u003e kayak kits.  We took the standard Shearwater’s graceful hull lines and added a strip-planked deck.  The resulting hybrid of strip and plywood techniques combines the look of a cedar-strip hull with the speedy assembly and great handling of a West Greenland-style hull.  The Shearwater Hybrid is a kayak with elegance and individuality. Since the hull forms the “strongback” for constructing the strip-planked deck, assembly time is a fraction of an all-strip hull.  Our Shearwater 16 display model took only about 100 hours from start to finish!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere’s how it works.  The Shearwater Hybrid’s hull is identical to the standard Shearwater’s, with computer-cut BS 1088 Okoume panels assembled with “finger joints” so it goes together very, very quickly.  Computer-cut molds are set into the hull with temporary hot glue.  These molds shape and support the deck during construction.  With the kit, we include 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar strips.  The strips are milled with a “bead and cove” joint so that one slides into the next for perfect joinery. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the deck pattern has been established and glued together, the entire deck is gently taken off the hull and the underside fiberglassed.  The molds are removed from the hull, then the deck epoxied back in place, atop structural “sheer clamps.”  Finally, the top of the strip deck is fiberglassed and the cockpit and hatches are added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs paddling boats, the Shearwaters are sophisticated and fast.  On the water, the Shearwater demonstrates excellent poise and responsiveness in a broad range of conditions, edging turns easily when leaned but tracking straight when pushed hard in surfing conditions. The narrow beam and low profile translates into fewer corrective strokes and more paddling energy spent on covering ground.  The speed and relatively narrow beam means the Shearwaters are not beginner paddling boats, but athletic paddlers and paddlers with intermediate skills will find them an excellent fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead \u0026amp; cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. \u003ca title=\"Bead-and-cove strips are available in a variety of wood types.\" href=\"\/products\/bead-and-cove-strips\"\u003eOptional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173989126437,"sku":"8605-5955","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/shearwater-17-hybrid_new-lead.jpg?v=1746474287"},{"product_id":"shearwater-sport-hybrid","title":"Shearwater Sport Hybrid","description":"\u003cp\u003eYou can't have everything in one boat.  For speed, you want long-and-narrow.  For comfort, you want beam and a big cockpit.  For maneuverability and compactness, a short kayak is desirable.  Artful compromise is the mark of good design, and we feel that Eric Schade's Shearwater Sport is a great combination of kayak \u003cstrong\u003evirtues.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor years kayak builders have been asking us for a kayak that slots in between the\u003cstrong\u003e high-performance Shearwater\u003c\/strong\u003e series and the beamy, \u003cstrong\u003ecomfortable Wood Duck\u003c\/strong\u003e series.  At our in-water demos, the experienced paddlers often made a beeline for the Shearwater 14, because it has the \u003cstrong\u003ehandling and the great looks\u003c\/strong\u003e of the West Greenland-style kayaks, but its shorter length makes it more maneuverable and easier to use than the long, fast Shearwater 17.  The Shearwater 14, however, is a scaled-down 17, intended only for smaller-statured paddlers weighing less than 150 pounds. That left a lot of paddlers on the shore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEric has brought his practiced eye and decades of paddling experience to bear on the problem.  Settling on a length of 14'6\", he added just enough beam (25\") to support paddlers over 200 lbs.  Refinement of the underbody, the bow, and the stern allowed him to retain the crisp handling that has sold almost 650 Shearwater kayaks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor paddlers with longer legs who want an easy entry and egress, Eric specified a 34-inch long cockpit.  Standard spray skirts still fit, and the Shearwater Sport is outfitted with all of the features expected in a high-performance kayak:  knee braces, hip braces, and a low aft deck for those who want to roll the boat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compact Shearwater Sport gives up nothing in cruising speeds to its longer, narrower Shearwater sisters, though it won't be quite as fast in a sprint.  It's still more than fast enough to accelerate onto waves for surfing.  Indeed, \u003cstrong\u003emany paddlers will build the Shearwater Sport just for surfing\u003c\/strong\u003e, while maintaining longer kayaks for distance work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor less adventurous paddlers, the Shearwater Sport offers the perfect compromise of light weight, sharp West Greenland handling, effortless cruising speed, and an extra-large cockpit for comfort.  The shorter length means easier construction, storage, and cartopping.  It might just be \u003cstrong\u003ethe One Kayak that does almost everything well\u003c\/strong\u003e.  Watertight bulkheads and flush-mounted deck hatches are standard, so many builders will camp out of the boat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe payload is ideal for up to a 220-pound paddler plus gear.  The reduced windage of the Shearwater family means that small people can paddle the Shearwater Sport, too, so more than just one person in the family can enjoy this beautiful kayak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Shearwater Sport's construction follows the proven stitch-and-glue process of the rest of the Shearwater family.  A dark Sapele deck is standard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Shearwater Sport Hybrid \u003cstrong\u003esubstitutes a cedar-stripped deck \u003c\/strong\u003efor the standard Sapele plywood deck.  Somewhat more challenging to build, the Shearwater Sport Hybrid rewards the kit builder with a unique and beautiful design.  Builders are \u003cstrong\u003eprovided with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar strip\u003c\/strong\u003es.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlans for the Shearwater Sport comprise a 33-foot by 3-foot roll of paper with full-sized patterns for every part of the boat.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e Our strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead and cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. \u003ca title=\"Bead-and-cove strips are available in a variety of wood types.\" href=\"\/products\/bead-and-cove-strips\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/clcboats.com\/shop\/products\/boat-building-supplies-epoxy-fiberglass-plywood\/cedar-strips-without-bead-and-cove.html\u0026amp;source=gmail\u0026amp;ust=1717778025339000\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw2CuQ3oy3pof6bKxiFw1KZn\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eOptional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173989290277,"sku":"4419-7619","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/shearwater-sport-hybrid_new-lead.jpg?v=1746217050"},{"product_id":"stitch-glue-night-heron","title":"Stitch \u0026 Glue Night Heron","description":"\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eStitch-and-Glue Night Heron\u003c\/strong\u003e is at home on the open water just a much as its strip-built cousin. You will be able to paddle with confidence as you cross unprotected channels to explore the shores of distant islands. As drawn, it has the exact \u003cstrong\u003esame profile shape of the low-deck version of the strip-built Night Heron\u003c\/strong\u003e. As built it tends to track a little more stiffly due to a slightly sharper \"V\" at the stem and stern. Due to the plywood construction\u003cstrong\u003e this version has the more defined \"hard\" chine than the strip version\u003c\/strong\u003e. This makes the boat a little \u003cstrong\u003emore responsive to edged turns\u003c\/strong\u003e. Otherwise the performance of the different version of the Night Herons are all quite similar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003eThe \"chine\" on the foredeck provides clearance to keep your paddle stroke entry close to the boat while paddling with a high or low paddle angle. It also provides room where you need it for your knees and feet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003eThe stitch-and-glue Night Heron has proven extremely popular with builders, thanks to its \u003cstrong\u003ehigh performance, aggressive styling and great looks\u003c\/strong\u003e. Many builders adopt Nick's multi-color staining approach, with each of the jigsaw-puzzled parts a different hue. This is a neat stitch-and-glue kit, where Chesapeake Light Craft's CNC technology is taken to its logical conclusion, with the intricate parts all perfectly fitting as they are sorted out. Holes for wire stitches are drilled in advance. Plans builders will use scarf joints to glue the panels to full length, not puzzle joints, as used in the kit. An optional bulkhead kit is available. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173989486885,"sku":"9168-9007","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/night-heron-sg_new-lead.jpg?v=1746107995"},{"product_id":"wood-duck-12-hybrid","title":"Wood Duck 12 Hybrid","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWood Duck 12 Hybrid\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e substitutes cedar strips for the standard plywood deck, keeping the stitch-and-glue hull and underbody identical to the standard version of the Wood Duck.\u003c\/span\u003e.  Thus it's a \"hybrid\" of strip-planking and stitch-and-glue building techniques. Wood Duck Hybrids offer builders with more woodworking skills the opportunity to customize their kayaks with creative strip patterns and designs.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a curious historical note, \"hybrid\" as a term describing a plywood kayak with a cedar-stripped deck actually predates the rise of the hybrid automobile.  We still get a lot of emails wondering if the Wood Duck Hybrids are electric-powered (they are not). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Wood Duck 12 Hybrid is a recreational kayak designed for people of all shapes and sizes to enjoy on the water.  With a big cockpit and ample stability, the emphasis is on comfort.  But these boats really paddle well!  Speed is excellent:  a Wood Duck 12 can cover a lot of miles in a day, while tracking is solid in stiff crosswinds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompact, easy-to-launch boats just seem to get used the most.  In a tenth of the time it takes to launch a heavy boat on a trailer or drag the big canoe down the lawn, you can slide one of these little kayaks into the water and be on your way.  Keep your Wood Duck on top of the car, ready to toss into all the interesting creeks in your county.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCapacity is ample and meant to accommodate a broad range of paddlers.  Cockpits are 38 inches long, for easy in and out, and your legs and knees will not be confined.  The Wood Duck 10 will carry paddlers up to 200 pounds, and the Wood Duck 12 will easily handle a 275-pounder, plus gear.  A flush hatch for the rear compartment is standard in all kits; an airtight oval VCP hatch is an option.  In either case, both boats can carry a heavy payload in the fore and aft compartments, enough for picnicking, camping, or a whole lot of fishing gear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Wood Duck Hybrid’s hull is identical to the standard Wood Duck’s, with computer-cut BS 1088 Okoume panels assembled with “puzzle joints” so it goes together very, very quickly.  Computer-cut molds are set into the hull with temporary hot glue.  These molds shape and support the deck during construction.  With the kit, we include precision-milled bead-and-cove Western Red and Alaskan Yellow cedar strips.  The strips are milled with a “bead and cove” joint so that one slides into the next for perfect joinery.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the deck pattern has been established and glued together, the entire deck is gently taken off the hull and the underside fiberglassed.  The molds are removed from the hull, then the deck is epoxied back in place.  Finally, the top of the strip deck is fiberglassed and the cockpit and hatches are added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead \u0026amp; cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. \u003ca title=\"Bead-and-cove strips are available in a variety of wood types.\" href=\"\/products\/bead-and-cove-strips\"\u003eOptional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCLC commissioned designer Eric Schade to draw and prototype the Wood Duck series of kayaks to our specifications.  Eric had a huge hit with his Shearwater kayak designs, also designed for CLC as fast sea kayaks.  He has another huge hit on his hands with this fun, good-looking recreational kayaks that anyone from age 8 to age 80 can enjoy on the water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173990011173,"sku":"6103-4893","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/wood-duck12-hybrid_new-lead.jpg?v=1751315083"},{"product_id":"wood-duck-14-hybrid","title":"Wood Duck 14 Hybrid","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe\u003cstrong\u003e Wood Duck 14 Hybrid \u003c\/strong\u003esubstitutes cedar strips for the standard plywood deck of the \u003cstrong\u003e \u003ca title=\"Stitch-and-glue standard version of the Wood Duck 14\" href=\"\/products\/wood-duck-14\"\u003eWood Duck 14\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, while the stitch-and-glue hull and underbody are identical to the standard version. Thus it's a \u003cstrong\u003e\"hybrid\" of strip-planking and stitch-and-glue building techniques\u003c\/strong\u003e. Wood Duck Hybrids offer builders with more woodworking skills the opportunity to customize their kayaks with creative strip patterns and designs.  Both versions are big, versatile kayaks in a compact, ultralight, easy-to-build package. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs a curious historical note, \"hybrid\" as a term describing a plywood kayak with a cedar-stripped deck actually predates the rise of the hybrid automobile.  We still get a lot of emails wondering if the Wood Duck Hybrids are electric-powered (they are not). \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBy having \u003cstrong\u003edesigner Eric Schade\u003c\/strong\u003e add a little more volume to the Wood Duck 10 and Wood Duck 12 designs, however, we could help out two kinds of paddlers:  those who need a really generous amount of \u003cstrong\u003eroom for comfort\u003c\/strong\u003e, or those who need the \u003cstrong\u003espace in the cockpit for a toddler\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eor\u003c\/strong\u003e---more commonly---\u003cstrong\u003ea big dog\u003c\/strong\u003e.  The Wood Duck 14 is also an amazing platform for serious fishing.  Again, the cockpit is absolutely voluminous.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of its size, we don't recommend the Wood Duck 14 for paddlers under 200 pounds unless there is also a need for the extra-long cockpit opening.  We'd suggest a rudder for lighter paddlers.  The Wood Duck 14 is\u003cstrong\u003e ideal for all conditions\u003c\/strong\u003e, from placid narrow creeks to open bays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amount of cockpit volume indicated a need for \u003cstrong\u003ewatertight bulkheads\u003c\/strong\u003e both fore and aft, so those are standard in the kit to make it easier to self-rescue.  \u003cstrong\u003eFlush deck hatches\u003c\/strong\u003e are also standard in the kit. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eWood Duck Hybrid’s hull is identical to the standard Wood Duck’s\u003c\/strong\u003e, with computer-cut BS 1088 Okoume panels assembled with “puzzle joints” so it goes together very, very quickly.  Computer-cut molds are set into the hull with temporary hot glue.  These molds shape and support the deck during construction.  With the kit, we include precision-milled bead-and-cove Western Red and Alaskan Yellow cedar strips.  The strips are milled with a “bead and cove” joint so that one slides into the next for perfect joinery.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the deck pattern has been established and glued together, the entire deck is gently taken off the hull and the underside fiberglassed.  The molds are removed from the hull, then the deck is epoxied back in place.  Finally, the top of the strip deck is fiberglassed and the cockpit and hatches are added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOur strip-built and hybrid kits ship with 50% Western Red and 50% Alaskan Yellow cedar bead \u0026amp; cove strips. Photos on our website and printed materials may show patterns and accent strips with walnut or other materials. \u003ca title=\"Bead-and-cove strips are available in a variety of wood types.\" href=\"\/products\/bead-and-cove-strips\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/clcboats.com\/shop\/products\/boat-building-supplies-epoxy-fiberglass-plywood\/cedar-strips-without-bead-and-cove.html\u0026amp;source=gmail\u0026amp;ust=1717778025339000\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw2CuQ3oy3pof6bKxiFw1KZn\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eOptional walnut strips are available and can be shipped with kit orders\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"related-content\"\u003ePlans for the Wood Duck 14 include full-sized patterns for every part, the comprehensive step-by-step instruction manual, and of course materials lists and finishing detail.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50173990076709,"sku":"927-4233","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/wood-duck-14-hybrid_new-lead.jpg?v=1745951685"},{"product_id":"petrel-scout-sg","title":"Petrel Scout SG","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNick Schade’s line of strip-planked Greenland-style sea kayaks are renowned for sophisticated performance on the water, beautiful lines, and sculptural hull details. But strip-planked boatbuilding is not for everyone. Novice woodworkers and weekend hobbyists may be reluctant to take on a time-consuming project like the original strip-planked\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"Petrel kayak kit\" href=\"https:\/\/clcboats.com\/products\/petrel\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePetrel kayak\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehowever rewarding. Nick's solution is a series of Petrels that are built of marine plywood, stitch-and-glue style, with great pains taken to retain the strip-planked original's point-and-shoot handling.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new 12-foot Petrel Scout SG\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eis a brilliant recreational kayak, and at \u003cstrong\u003e12' x 26\" \u003c\/strong\u003e[3.7m x 0.6m] it is compact and easy to handle. The Scout SG is built stitch-and-glue-style from CNC-cut marine plywood. With a 280-pound [130kg] capacity, the Scout SG is suitable for large adults, yet it is not too big for children. The standard sea-kayak-sized cockpit coaming can be fitted with a spray skirt for those venturing into rougher conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis design can be built with flush wooden hatches or the watertight rubber hatches typical of production sea kayak designs. Drawings for either option are included.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe parts-count for the Petrel Scout SG is higher than something like the \u003ca title=\"Wood Duck Kayak Kit\" href=\"https:\/\/clcboats.com\/products\/wood-duck-12\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWood Duck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e kayaks, making the Scout ideal for someone with a grasp of stitch-and-glue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDesigner's Notes:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eOne might expect that all the possible kayaks have been designed by now. We have long ones, short ones, fat ones, skinny ones, what more could we possibly need? I think we need the Petrel Scout.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eBased on my very popular Petrel “Play” design, the Scout is the Play’s capable, adventurous little sister. Scout wants to go out and poke around the fun little coves, seek out the loons fishing at the entrance to the creek, sneak up on the turtles gathering on the floating log, or search for starfish along a rocky shore. If you are ready to explore, the Scout is excited to take you there. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eScout is a 12’ long by 26” wide recreational kayak that is outfitted like a sea kayak. It makes for a fun, easy-to-handle boat for exploring sheltered waters in safety. The bulkheads and watertight hatches give it reserve buoyancy and dry storage, which provides a measure of safety that is not always found in recreational kayaks. The sea kayak-sized cockpit allows the option of using a spray skirt if you are paddling in waters where you may be surprised by larger waves from boat wakes or rapidly changing weather.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe pert bow and stern profile keeps the waterline as long as possible to maximize the speed potential of such a short boat. The vertical sides maximize the stability. The recessed coaming gives you good ergonomics and paddling geometry.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Petrel Scout has bulkheads fore and aft, with the airtight rubber sea kayak hatches providing access to the bow and stern compartments. In the unlikely event you should capsize, the bulkheads limit the amount of water getting into the cockpit, and the airtight compartments at each end will keep the floating high enough to pump out. Keep dry clothing and gear in the bow and stern compartments. While no system is absolutely leak-proof, the rubber hatches are the most reliable solution for keeping water out of the sealed spaces.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hull can carry over 300lbs [136kg], so it would be fun to pack gear for an overnight camping trip with either kids or adults using the kayak. The sea-kayak-sized cockpit allows kids and small adults to comfortably use the kayak without floating around as may happen in rec kayaks with a larger open cockpit. If larger adults don’t mind a conforming cockpit, the control it provides allows the Scout to be used as a very capable, responsive little play boat. While rock gardens and surf aren't this design's core purpose, I’ve taken the prototype out in very rough open water and active tide races, and it was a hoot. It handled the lumpy conditions ably.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIf you are looking for a fun, compact recreational kayak with the safety features of a sea kayak, the Scout will get paddlers of all ages and abilities out on the water. The bulkheads and watertight compartments provide a level of added security if you paddle places where you may occasionally encounter rougher conditions. Maybe it’s the kayak you didn’t know you needed.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e—Nick Schade\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you fit in this kayak? \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Kayaks need to fit right---check your height, weight, and shoe size in this chart.\" href=\"\/pages\/compare-kayak-specifications\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudy our kayak fit chart.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Light Craft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51972618027301,"sku":"4879-5399","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0854\/4839\/2997\/files\/petrel-scout-sg_new-lead.jpg?v=1770239557"}],"url":"https:\/\/clcboats.com\/collections\/kayak-chooser-intermediate-touring.oembed","provider":"Chesapeake Light Craft","version":"1.0","type":"link"}