Night Heron (Stitch & Glue)

I have a couple questions for anyone who knows or who has built this kayak: Was it easy to build? Is this a fast boat with some good secondary stability? Does it have a rear hatch? - from the layout it doesn't appear to have one. Anything else you can add about this boat would help. Its a great looking kayak and I am considering building one.

You can find much information on this model on the Web.

I built one at a class from a kit.
Compared to other kits it is about the same.
Building any is a big project.
There is always a lot of work.
It has more panels and joints than a Chesapeake LT 17.
There is no difficult bending.
The panels and joints require no cutting if you buy the kit.
The kit has a round rear hatch with a twist lock.
If you build from plans the hatch is of a simpler design.
As with anything you built there is lots of room for modifications.


If you build one in a class you cannot fail.
(still a lot of work when you get home)
If you build from plans or build a kit on your own you should know what you are getting into, and be confident you can do it.

The finished kayak is great.
Looks great because of it shape.
I always get compliments and inquires.
Fast for a non racer.
Exceptional turning if you lean.
Secondary stability good.
Rolling good.
Does not weathercock going downwind.
Going cross wind easy to manage.

At only 20" wide it is narrower than most commercial kayaks. Not as tippy as you would expect. Not tippy at all for an intermediate kayaker who is used to it.

Obviously not a lot of hip room.

This is a kayak for the kayaking enthusiast.