More than 9,000 Chesapeake-series kayak kits have been shipped since 1996. The series varies in length from 14' to 21', and in hull weight from 36 to 68 lbs. The Chesapeake 17 comes in two versions. The 17 and 17LT both weigh 45 lbs, with the 17 having a slightly larger cockpit, a bit more knee room and the capacity to take paddlers up to 250 lbs. compared to the 220-pound maximum for the 17LT. The 17LT was designed as a Light Touring kayak, with lower decks than the 17 and less interior volume. The cockpit and knee room are slightly smaller, so the 17 LT is intended for paddlers up to 220 pounds with a shoe size of 13 or less. By reducing this volume, the lower sides mean less windage, so the 17LT is sleeker and more nimble than the 17. An enduring favorite among paddlers, the award-winning Chesapeakes are the gold standard for build-it-yourself sea kayaks. Easy to build with sleek lines, their high-volume bows lift you over rough seas -- or powerboat wakes -- while the skeg-like stern prevents weather-cocking in blustery winds. CLC's signature cambered decks shed spray, increase the storage space inside the hull, add strength without weight, and look great. Large storage compartments will absorb enough gear and water for long, unsupported expeditions. Cockpits are large and easy to pad out for a custom fit. The big, comfortable cockpit is an ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon if multi-week expeditions aren't your speed. Many of our Chesapeake kayak builders tell us about their explorations of quiet local rivers, others have gone on great adventures, including a few who have paddled the length of the Sea of Cortez. They are used in expeditions above the Arctic Circle and for day paddling in Florida. Chesapeakes are built to endure a lifetime of strenuous touring with their 4mm-okoume-plywood hulls and decks, which are both sheathed with fiberglass. Watertight bulkheads are standard, as are hatches, deck rigging, adjustable footbraces, and a comfortable seat. One reason so many builders prefer the Chesapeakes is their flexible architecture, unique among kit boats. Experienced builders may customize every part of the boat above the waterline, whether building from a kit or plans. Chesapeakes have been built in garages, apartments, living rooms, television studios, and in at least 50 countries from Iceland to Australia. You can watch a video of a Chesapeake kayak being built from start to finish here. Individual kayak fit is very important, so there are six singles, two doubles, and a triple to choose from. The 16LT and 17LT are standard Chesapeake 16 and Chesapeake 17 hulls with lower decks and sides, reducing their total volume by 20% for a sleeker, more compact kayak Do you fit in this kayak? Study our kayak fit chart.
