Doubles can be big, like our voluminous Chesapeake Double, or they can be small, like our handy-but-compact Mill Creek 16.5. How could we create a double kayak that combined the speed of a longer sea kayak with the convenience of a smaller boat? It was a challenge we handed to designer Eric Schade, and after a long development the Shearwater Double was revealed.
For speed, the hull is multi-chined and plumb-ended, with a long waterline for minimal wetted surface. We borrowed the Shearwater kayak’s handsome deck pattern to fit two large cockpits and three big storage compartments while maintaining a sleek profile. The Shearwater Double is remarkably fast and comfortable. The most discriminating paddlers will enjoy its responsiveness and speed, while the solid stability and roomy cockpits will reassure beginners.
The hull is okoume while the deck is standard in Sapele. Flush hatches (three of them) are standard in the kit, as are seats, footbraces, deck rigging, and hardware. Holes are pre-drilled in advance by our CNC machine for stitch-and-glue assembly. All surfaces are fiberglassed, inside and out.
Build this boat if:
- You want a fast but compact double
- You prefer sophisticated styling and a functional layout
- You need comfortable cockpits but don’t want to sacrifice speed
