The Chesapeake 17 was among the early offerings from Chesapeake Light Craft and one of six kayaks in the early Chesapeake series. The Chesapeakes were designed as all-around kayaks capable of carrying enough gear for long cruises; the 17 is sized for paddlers weighing between 160 to 230 lbs; it has a maximum displacement of 275 lbs. The hull is assembled in stitch-and-glue fashion and fitted with sheer clamps, and then the decks are curved over the bulkheads and laminated deck beam and nailed in place. Epoxy previously applied to the undersides of the decks and the tops of the sheer clamps assures a strong watertight fit. The finished kayak should come in at about 45 lbs.
Chesapeake 17 Kayak Design Details
DESCRIPTION
Hull type: V-bottomed sea kayak
Construction: Stitch and glue
PERFORMANCE
Suitable for semi-open waters
Intended capacity: 1
Cartoppable
Propulsion: Double paddle
BUILDING DATA
Skill needed: Basic
Lofting required: No
PLANS DATA
No. of sheets: 4
Supplemental information: 174 pages
Level of Detail: Above average
Plans Format: Print
Cost per set: $69
Plan No. 141
Particulars
LOA: 16’11”
Beam: 23½”
Depth: 12½”
Weight: about 44 lbs