sargentjj Posted August 11, 2014 Report Share Posted August 11, 2014 Jeff, I finished the Vardo and love it. It’s quick, stable and spacious. The only drawback is that after adding all the extras (hatches rigging, seats, etc) the boat now weighs 45 lbs. I'm looking to start another build and have looked at the FAQ for boat recommendations. I have been out with a GPS so I know my average speed on the water is 4.5 - 5 mph. I am 6' and 185 lbs size 10 shoe. So here's the question most asked....what do you recommend next? The long shot looks like a great build but it is longer and with the extra stringers on the bottom, (to add a round hull shape) how does the weight compare to the Ravenswood? I do like the quickness of the Vardo and like the 16-17' length, also I do like the looks of the Greenland style boats. The hydrostat tables on the boats have only helped to confuse the issue and since I can’t build one of each I’m looking for a tighter fit than the Vardo and a lighter boat. If the Vardo is like a pickup truck, I’m looking for a sports car next. Recommendations are greatly appreciated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kudzu Posted August 11, 2014 Report Share Posted August 11, 2014 45 lbs?? Wow, I don't know how you did that but that is heavy! Watch those ounces on the next one and the pounds will take care of themselves. There is a noticiable difference in the perfomance of a Long Shot and Vardo. Your not going to see huge gains in speed but paddle one with someone and then swap boats and it is very noticable. So that would be my choice. Of course you could wait and see how this turns out. I have high hopes for this one and expect to start building it once I return from the class. http://messing-about.com/forums/topic/9181-and-we-have-a-winner/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
woodman Posted August 11, 2014 Report Share Posted August 11, 2014 With all the designs for 250 lbs. displacement, what added freeboard is there with 80 lbs. less weight? I thought this article interesting.... http://www.kayakfishmag.com/boats/why-is-every-new-fishing-kayak-for-fat-guys/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sargentjj Posted August 11, 2014 Author Report Share Posted August 11, 2014 Jeff, Thanks for the quick response. The Vardo got heavy because I added a few too many coats of Rustoleum. I used the recycled poly fabric and before I new it I had almost 4 quarts applied. I've built 3 strip canoes and one of Platt Montfort's Geodesic Whitehall's...you can never add too much varnish to get a glass like finish. I now see skin boats don't need that much. The new design looks just like what I'm looking for. I'll be eagerly awaiting the release of the plans. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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