I started out in a Grumman 17 over forty years ago, have gone through most of the materials and hull types since then, and have come full circle back to a Grumman 17. I rate them a solid 10, but others are as well. Rx, fiberglass, kevlar, all have their 10 qualities, but for my purposes, the Grumman fits best. Everyone knows that alloy is sticky on rocks, is noisy, is a heat sink, and is ...heavy??? No. It isn't heavy. A typical Rx 17 is heavier, as are some well made fiberglass boats. There are superior hull designs for touring long distances and for anything over Class 2 waters, but I prefer the Grumman for other aspects, namely, for the rigidity of the hull, the almost indestructible material, and for the ability to modify the boat to suit my needs - which is at this time, sailing it as a fast trimaran. Aluminum will take drilling and fastenings that could compromise other materials, which are already more flexible. For sailing, you need a very stiff hull, especially with outriggers taking the hits from waves in the two foot range. And, when I'm not sailing, I can un-bolt the accessory parts and clamp on my self made row kit and really fly across the water into a good campsite. Paddling, to me now, is for younger guys, and is now only the method to maneuver my self in close or to get away from the landing. If you haven't tried sailing your Grumman, you should. I don't know of any other canoe maker that made their own kits, which can be found in many local c-list markets.
