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> I am considering constructing a skin boat. I'm pretty up on the availible
> wood boats, but am unsure what options are available for skin boats. The
> only two that come to mind are an article in Sea Kayaker several years ago
> that I have heard referenced on several occasions but have not read, and
> the book by Putz. Does anyone have any knowledge as to the relative
> performance of these two boats, their relative ease of construction, or
> any info on other options for building Greenland style skin boats.
> Thanks, Dave Walker
I have built the Walrus 17 in the Putz book. Mine weighs in at 33 lbs. It is much easier to cartop than my Pygmy Arctic Tern. It is also much more responsive, than any other kayak that I have paddled. I believe this has to do with the concave surface that the skin forms when in the water, it gives it a sharper chine. It is also about as fast as my Tern, but much quicker. It also tracks quite well, with the straight rocker and external keel. It does weathercock some, but I believe raising the height of the bow would help. I am more careful with it than my Pygmy, but it takes a beating from smooth rocks much better. The cost was in the $200-$250 range, but could be built for under $200. It is a little bit tight inside, but you can raise the deck to whatever height you need. It is not an expedition kayak, but is wonderful for day paddling, and could be used for light camping. Skinning it is easier than a more traditional skin kayak, I used monel staples to attach it to the frame. It also requires little or no steam bending, depending on how you do your external keel. I do not like the arched coaming that Putz uses, but this is an easy change while building.
I like the kayak so much, I'm building a plywood/fiberglass version (cost under $125) for my brother. I am planning on building another one for myself with a 4" higher bow, 1" narrower beam, a synthetic skin, and a more rounded coaming. I used Elast-o-Seal, Snow-Roof, and a latex color coat to seal the #10 14 oz. canvas.
Where do you live someone might live close to you that has a skin kayak. There are many other skin kayak designs that are good, I have paddled a baidarka, but prefer the Greenland lines. How and where are you planning on using it?
The picture is of my wife paddling mine, and the link is to someone else's site.
This is an archived message from The Kayak Building Bulletin Board.
Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
